Red Canyons Best Of The Wild West Wild Mustang+Rafting Adventure

If you’re planning a trip to Cody, Wyoming, and craving a taste of the rugged Wild West, this tour promises an engaging mix of wild mustangs, scenic vistas, and adrenaline-pumping river rapids. While it’s not a leisurely float, it’s well-organized, family-friendly, and packed with memorable moments.

What we love about this experience is how it combines wildlife encounters—like spotting wild mustangs in the McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Preserve—with the thrill of navigating seven miles of rapids on the Shoshone River. Plus, the guides consistently impress visitors with their knowledge and friendly manner, making even beginners feel comfortable.

One thing to consider is that this is a whitewater adventure, which might be a bit intimidating for very young children or travelers with physical limitations. The tour is designed for a moderate fitness level, so it’s best suited for active, adventurous types. Overall, if you’re after a genuine Wild West experience that mixes history, nature, and fun, this trip could be a standout highlight of your Cody visit.

This experience made our article of Our 7 Favorite Cody Tours & Things To Do.

Key Points

• Scenic and adventurous: Combines a wild mustang safari with a whitewater rafting trip.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local stories and safety tips.
• Flexible for families: Options for smaller or larger rafts cater to different comfort levels.
• Authentic wildlife viewing: Opportunities to see birds and other animals in their natural habitat.
• Moderate physical activity: Suitable for those with decent fitness, but not for everyone.
• Great value: The price includes essential safety gear, bottled water, and instructions.

Introduction: An Exciting Glimpse of the Wild West

If you’re looking to step into the true spirit of Cody, Wyoming, this Best of the Wild West tour offers a compelling mix of activities that showcase the area’s rugged charm. The experience kicks off with a wild mustang safari where you’ll explore the McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Preserve, crossing creeks and gazing at free-ranging mustangs and other wildlife—an authentic taste of the open plains.

Then, after a quick lunch break, the adventure shifts gears. Prepare for seven miles of whitewater rapids on the Shoshone River, an exhilarating ride that’s perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike. We love that this tour combines the best of nature, history, and adventure in one well-organized package.

A key point to keep in mind is that this is a guided tour with safety as a priority. The guides are praised for their experience and knowledge, which makes even first-timers feel confident. However, it’s worth noting that the trip involves moderate physical activity—something to consider if you have mobility issues or are traveling with very young children (minimum age is 2, but high water conditions could lead to cancellations).

This tour suits travelers who want a family-friendly, fun-filled day that combines wildlife, history, and adventure without sacrificing safety or authenticity. It’s a great way to add some adrenaline to your Wyoming trip while learning about the area’s natural beauty.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Start: Cody, the Gateway to the West

The day begins in Cody, a town rich with Old West history and a modern hub for outdoor adventures. The tour departs at 1:00 pm from 1119 12th St, giving you the afternoon to get oriented and prepare.

Wild Mustang Safari

The first highlight is the 3-hour Wild Mustang Safari in the McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Preserve. This off-road adventure involves crossing creeks and exploring the Wyoming Badlands. You’ll get a chance to see North American migratory wildlife, hear stories of mountain men, and learn about the wild Mustang herds that roam freely here.

Many reviewers praise how knowledgeable guides make the safari fun and informative. Norman g. states, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and experienced. Even though the river was down a little, we still had some good rapids & had a lot of fun. Recommend this rafting trip.” This underscores how guides enhance the experience, making it educational as well as entertaining.

Lunch Break and Preparation

After the safari, you’ll enjoy a deli-style picnic lunch—a welcome opportunity to relax and refuel before the next adventure. There’s time to change clothes and get ready for the river. This break is essential, as the whitewater rafting portion demands a good level of readiness and enthusiasm.

Whitewater Rafting on the Shoshone River

At 1:00 pm, the focus shifts to the 7-mile whitewater trip on the Shoshone River. The tour includes safety instructions, life vests, and slickers—all provided at no extra cost. The guides are skilled at navigating the river’s rapids, which include notable spots like Colters Falls and Little Big Drop.

Travelers consistently mention how experienced guides keep everyone safe while maximizing fun. Sharon H. writes, “Was a little worried about doing this river rafting but it was great. Would do it again. Our guides were great also.” The rapids are described as family-friendly, yet still exciting enough to get your heart pounding.

What to Expect on the River

Expect to hold on tight during the more vigorous sections, but also enjoy the stunning views of the Shoshone River and its surroundings. Wildlife sightings—birds and other animals—are common, adding to the sense of adventure and connection with nature.

The raft size options cater to different comfort levels—smaller rafts for a faster ride and larger ones for families or those wanting a bit more stability. This flexibility is appreciated by many, as it helps tailor the experience to your group’s preferences.

End of the Tour

The trip wraps up back at the meeting point in Cody, around 8 hours after departure. Many visitors say the combination of experiences makes for a full, satisfying day of outdoor fun, learning, and adventure.

What Real Visitors Say

The positive feedback is consistent. Norman G. describes the guide as “very knowledgeable,” and Sharon H. emphasizes that she’d do it again. Bo Z., whose family enjoyed the trip, comments, “Great time. We liked the white water rafting. Beautiful countryside here in Cody Wyoming. We also went to the rodeo which was a great time.”

The reviews highlight the guides’ professionalism and friendliness, as well as the stunning natural scenery—both critical for a memorable outdoor excursion.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

Pricing and Value

At $119 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience that combines wildlife viewing, history, and adrenaline in a single day. The price covers safety gear, bottled water, and the guidance, which adds to its value, especially considering the length and diversity of activities.

Group Size and Booking

With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing guides to give personalized attention. The average booking time of 37 days in advance suggests it’s popular—so early booking is advisable.

Timing and Weather

The tour runs in the afternoon, starting at 1:00 pm, making it suitable for those with morning plans. It’s weather-dependent, so check the forecast. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered, which provides some peace of mind.

Physical Fitness

While most of the activities are accessible to those with moderate physical fitness, the tour emphasizes safety and comfort. Those with mobility issues or very young children should consult with the provider beforehand, especially during high water periods when some restrictions might apply.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This adventure offers an authentic slice of Wyoming’s rugged landscape and history, delivered with a sense of fun and safety that many travelers appreciate. If you’re eager to say you’ve rafted wild rapids and encountered free-ranging wild mustangs, this tour is a fantastic choice.

The guides’ knowledge and attentiveness make it approachable for first-timers, yet the exhilaration of the rapids adds a layer of excitement even seasoned outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy. It’s perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to connect with nature in a lively, engaging way.

The combination of scenic beauty, wildlife, and adventure makes this experience a true highlight of a trip to Cody. Just remember to come prepared for some physical activity, and you’ll be rewarded with memories that last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour generally accepts children as young as 2 years old. However, during periods of high water, some age restrictions may be in place, and certain physical capabilities might be required.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers a life vest, safety instructions, a guide, slickers, and bottled water. It does not include lunch, alcoholic beverages, or gratuities.

How long is the entire tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 hours, beginning with the Mustang safari, lunch, and then the rafting adventure, all starting at 1:00 pm.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, quick-dry layers, and possibly a change of clothes for after the river are recommended. The tour provides slickers, but dressing in layers helps manage weather changes.

Do I need to be physically fit?
A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended, as the activities involve some walking, crossing creeks, and paddling. However, guides are experienced at ensuring safety and comfort.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
While booking in advance—on average about 37 days—is recommended, last-minute availability depends on current bookings and weather conditions.

Is the tour educational?
Absolutely—your guides provide stories about local history, wildlife, and the significance of the Mustang herds, enriching the outdoor adventure with context and insight.

Overall, this tour blends the thrill of whitewater rafting with the cultural richness of the Wild West, making it an adventure suited for those who want a balanced dose of excitement and authenticity. Whether you’re after a family outing, a solo adventure, or a memorable activity to share with friends, it offers a genuine taste of Cody’s rugged charm.