In 1912, diminishing herds of elk caused awareness and prompted the establishment of the National Elk Refuge. Today, the refuge has 24,700 acres of lowland, meadows, marshes, sage brush, and rock covered foothills support 5000-8000 wintering elk each year as well as bison, deer, big horn sheep, wolves, and trumpeter swans. This is the only refuge dedicated to elk management. From mid December to early April, visitors can enjoy a sled ride through the refuge. The cost is $15 for children and $23 for adults.