Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody, WY

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

Introduction

Our review focuses on the Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody, WY, a full-day adventure designed for travelers eager to explore Yellowstone’s northern stretches with a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a landscape lover, or simply seeking a convenient way to see some of Yellowstone’s highlights, this tour promises a memorable experience.

What we love most about this tour is its small-group format, which allows for more personalized attention and better chances to spot elusive wildlife. Plus, the inclusion of binoculars, a spotting scope, and lunch adds plenty of value, making the day both comfortable and engaging.

One thing to consider is that the tour covers a long day with approximately 10 to 11 hours on the road, so travelers should be prepared for a full but rewarding experience. This tour is ideal for those comfortable with early mornings and long days, and for anyone who values quiet, less-traveled routes into Yellowstone.

Key Points

• Small group size enhances personalized experience and wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Expert guides are highly praised for their knowledge and ability to find wildlife.
• The tour covers major Yellowstone sights like Lamar Valley, Grand Canyon, Tower Fall, and Hayden Valley.
• All-inclusive with lunch, snacks, bottled water, binoculars, and a spotting scope adds great value.
• The route includes scenic drives like the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway and Pahaska Tepee.
• Timing and flexibility allow for a comprehensive and less crowded Yellowstone experience.

An Introduction to the Tour Experience

The Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody offers a well-structured way to see Yellowstone’s premier sights without the hassle of driving yourself or trying to cram everything into a short visit. We found that early starts—beginning at 6 am—are typical, but the long day is packed with stops that showcase the park’s most dramatic landscapes and wildlife-filled valleys.

What makes this tour stand out is the thoughtful itinerary. It hits key points like Lamar Valley, often called the “Serengeti of the West” for its abundant wildlife, and the iconic Grand Canyon of Yellowstone with its roaring Lower Falls. The small group size—limited to 12 participants—means you get a more intimate and flexible experience, with your guide able to focus on your interests and questions.

However, be prepared for a long day on the road. While the scenery and wildlife sightings tend to make the hours fly by, this tour isn’t for everyone—those who prefer a more relaxed or leisurely pace might find it a bit intensive. Still, for those hungry for a comprehensive Yellowstone experience, it hits the highlights efficiently and enjoyably.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Cody

The adventure kicks off bright and early at the Walmart Supercenter in Cody at 6:00 am. This location is convenient for most travelers staying nearby, and the tour bus is air-conditioned, making the morning pick-up comfortable. The day ends back at the same spot around 6 pm, which keeps logistics simple.

Chief Joseph Scenic Byway

The first major drive takes you along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, renowned for its spectacular views and wildlife opportunities. Stops at Dead Indian Pass and Pilot Peak let you stretch your legs and take in breathtaking vistas. According to reviews, this route often offers sightings of Moose, Grizzly Bears, Coyotes, and Mountain Goats, especially as you approach the Montana border. The slow pace and scenic views make this a favorite part of the trip.

Entering Yellowstone via the Northeast Gate

Yellowstone’s less trafficked Northeast Gate makes for a more peaceful entry into the park, setting the tone for a less crowded day. Once inside, you’ll immediately feel immersed in the park’s grandeur, with your guide pointing out features and sharing insights.

Lamar Valley: Wildlife Wonderland

Spending about an hour and a half in Lamar Valley, the “Serengeti of the West,” is a highlight. This expansive plain is the best place for wildlife sightings, and guides are usually successful in spotting Black Bears, Grizzly Bears, Grey Wolves, Moose, Pronghorn, Mountain Goats, and Mule Deer. As one reviewer shared, the guide’s knack for finding animals makes this part truly special, with some travelers noting the opportunity for excellent photos.

Tower Fall

Next, a 50-minute stop at Tower Fall offers a chance to see this iconic waterfall, painted by 19th-century artists and now a favored photo spot. It’s also practical—a place to rest, refuel with snacks, or browse the gift shop. While some reviews mention that Tower Fall isn’t the park’s most impressive sight, it remains a classic Yellowstone feature worth experiencing.

Mount Washburn: Bighorns and Wildflowers

Driving over Dunraven Pass to Canyon Village, the tour pauses to look for Black Bears along the way. At the summit of Mount Washburn, you might spot Bighorn Sheep and enjoy sweeping views. The area is also noted for its stunning wildflower displays, perfect for anyone interested in botany or photography.

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone with its roaring Lower Falls is a must-see spectacle. The stop lasts about 45 minutes, enough time to take in the view and snap photos of the canyon’s vibrant hues and thundering water. The scenery here is so iconic it’s been featured on countless postcards and paintings, and guides often point out interesting geological details.

Hayden Valley and Wildlife Encounters

Working along the park’s east side, the tour visits Hayden Valley, where herds of Buffalo, Elk, and Grey Wolves are often seen. It’s a prime place for wildlife spotting, with some reviews mentioning regular Bison crossings. This area captures the essence of Yellowstone’s wilderness, with open fields and big animals everywhere.

Final Stops: Fishing Bridge & Pahaska Tepee

A quick visit to Fishing Bridge Visitor Center provides a bathroom break and a chance to browse souvenirs. Then, at Pahaska Tepee, you can see Buffalo Bill Cody’s original hunting lodge—another slice of Yellowstone’s historic charm. This stop is brief but adds a sense of frontier history.

Scenic Drive Through the Shoshone National Forest

The last leg of the trip takes you through the Buffalo Bill National Scenic Byway, called “the most scenic drive in America” by Theodore Roosevelt. The drive offers panoramic views of the Shoshone National Forest and chances to spot more wildlife outside the park boundary, making the journey just as scenic as the destinations.

The Practical Side: Value and Comfort

This tour costs $248 per person, which includes lunch, snacks, bottled water, binoculars, and a spotting scope. When you consider the cost of park entrance fees, rental gear, and meals you’d likely pay for on your own, the price becomes quite reasonable for a full-day guided experience. The small group size, limited to 12 travelers, means you get more attention and flexibility—your guide can tailor the experience a bit or spend more time at the sights you’re most interested in.

The air-conditioned vehicle and round-trip transfers from Cody add to the convenience, especially important given the early start and long hours. The included lunch, with options like ham, turkey, roast beef, or veggie sandwiches, is a thoughtful touch, helping keep you energized for the day ahead.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers rave about the knowledgeable guides and their ability to find wildlife. One reviewer described their guide as “super talented in finding wildlife and great spots for photos,” which is crucial for a wildlife-focused tour. Others appreciated the stunning views and the fact that the tour was well-organized, making a long day feel manageable.

A few critical voices mention issues like late pickups or missing some sights like Tower Fall, but these seem minor in the face of the overall experience. In fact, many reviews describe the trip as “spectacular,” “bucket list-worthy,” and “wonderful,” emphasizing the value of expert guidance and the opportunity to see Yellowstone’s wilderness with minimal hassle.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari appeals most to nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts eager to maximize their Yellowstone experience without the stress of driving or navigating. It’s a good fit for travelers comfortable with early mornings and a 10- to 11-hour day. The tour’s small-group format makes it especially suitable for those who prefer more personal attention and the chance to ask questions.

Families with older children, solo travelers, and anyone interested in photography will find this tour particularly rewarding. However, travelers looking for a relaxed, leisurely visit might find the long hours a bit tiring. Overall, if your goal is to see Yellowstone’s best in one day with expert assistance, this tour offers excellent value and memorable sights.

The Sum Up

The Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody combines a well-planned itinerary, expert guides, and all-inclusive comfort into a compelling package for Yellowstone visitors. The opportunity to see iconic sights like Lamar Valley, Tower Fall, and the Grand Canyon, along with abundant wildlife sightings, makes it a top choice for travelers who want to get the most out of their Yellowstone visit in one day.

The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, while the included gear and lunch add convenience and value. The long day might be a challenge for some, but the stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and expert commentary make it well worth the effort.

This tour is ideal for those who prioritize quality and efficiency, especially if you’re eager to see Yellowstone with knowledgeable guides who know where to look. It’s perfect for travelers who value a comprehensive, hassle-free experience that hits all the big highlights and offers plenty of photo-worthy moments. If you want a memorable, well-organized adventure into Yellowstone’s wilderness, this safari is a sound choice.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 am at the Walmart Supercenter in Cody, WY, to make the most of the day in Yellowstone.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers all transportation, a hearty lunch with several options, bottled water, snacks, binoculars, and a spotting scope, making it quite a good value.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, binoculars and a spotting scope are provided, along with bottled water and snacks. You might want to bring a camera and sunglasses.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but given the long hours, it’s best for children comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Can I see wildlife like bears and wolves?
While wildlife sightings depend on luck, guides are skilled at spotting animals, and Lamar Valley is a prime location for seeing bears, wolves, moose, and more.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any additional fees?
You might encounter land or facility fees, which are not included in the tour price.

How long is the total driving time?
Expect about 10-11 hours from start to finish, including stops.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 12 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes back at the starting point in Cody around 6 pm, making for easy planning.

This guided Yellowstone tour offers a dependable, enriching way to see the park’s highlights with expert help. For anyone wanting a full, rewarding day in this incredible wilderness, it’s hard to beat.