Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody, WY

Taking a full-day tour of Yellowstone’s northern range from Cody offers a fantastic way to see some of the park’s most iconic sights without the stress of planning. This guided experience is perfect for travelers who want an expert-led, in-depth look at Yellowstone’s wildlife and landscapes while enjoying the comfort of included amenities. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel to the last scenic drive back, this tour aims to pack in as much natural beauty and wildlife spotting as possible.

What we love about this experience are two key points. First, the small group size (limited to 12 travelers) enhances the guide’s ability to focus on individual interests and provide personalized attention. Second, the quality of the included equipment—binoculars and spotting scopes—significantly boosts the chances of spotting elusive animals like wolves or moose. That said, the tour’s longer duration (around 10-11 hours) does require a full day’s commitment, and it’s worth considering if you’re okay with a packed schedule. This trip suits travelers eager to see Yellowstone’s top sights with an expert guide, in a comfortable setting, and with plenty of wildlife opportunities.

Key Points

• Small group size allows for personalized attention and better wildlife viewing.
• Wildlife sightings include bears, wolves, moose, and more, aided by binoculars and scopes.
• The tour covers major highlights such as Lamar Valley, Grand Canyon, Tower Fall, and Hayden Valley.
• All-inclusive with lunch, bottled water, snacks, and round-trip transport from Cody.
• The itinerary is carefully designed for maximal scenic and wildlife viewing.
• The tour is rated 5/5 by 17 reviews, reflecting widespread satisfaction.

A Complete Look at the Yellowstone Northern Safari

We’ll walk through each part of the day, sharing what you can expect and why these stops matter—whether for wildlife, photo ops, or stunning vistas.

Starting Point in Cody

The adventure begins early at the Walmart Supercenter in Cody, typically at 7 a.m. The convenience of pickup from a central location means you don’t have to worry about driving yourself. The tour is capped at 12 people, which generally means a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours. The morning starts with anticipation, as you board an air-conditioned vehicle equipped for comfort on a long day.

Chief Joseph Scenic Byway: A Drive Through Beauty

Your first major stop is the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway, often touted as one of the most breathtaking drives in the region. As you wind through Dead Indian Pass and past Pilot Peak, you’ll get sweeping views of rugged mountains and lush valleys. This stretch is not just pretty; it’s often where guides spot wildlife such as Moose, Grizzly Bears, Coyotes, and Mountain Goats—especially as you near the Wyoming-Montana border.

Traveling along this route, we loved the way the landscape shifts from open plains to towering peaks, giving a real sense of the rugged wilderness that makes Yellowstone special. As one reviewer put it, “the scenery is awe-inspiring,” and the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat adds an extra thrill.

Entering Yellowstone Through the Northeast Gate

The group then enters Yellowstone via the least trafficked Northeast Gate, which offers a quieter, more relaxed approach to the park. This is a big plus for wildlife lovers, as less congestion means more opportunities to spot animals. The guide’s local knowledge helps maximize sightings, and the vehicle’s windows are perfect for viewing.

Lamar Valley: The ‘Serengeti of the West’

No wildlife-focused Yellowstone tour is complete without a stop in Lamar Valley. Nicknamed the ‘Serengeti of the West,’ this wide-open landscape is famed for its abundant animal sightings. Here, we loved the way the guide pointed out the subtle signs of wildlife—tracks, scat, or distant movements—making the experience both educational and exciting.

Common sightings include Black Bears, Grizzly Bears, Grey Wolves, Moose, Pronghorn, Mountain Goats, and Mule Deer. As one traveler noted, “I could not ask for more” from the wildlife viewing, thanks to the guide’s skill and the good spotting equipment. The 1.5-hour stop gives ample opportunity for photos and observations.

Tower Fall: Iconic Waterfall and Rest Stop

Next, the tour visits Tower Fall, a spectacular cascade of water that has inspired artists and photographers for decades. It’s also a practical stop for restroom breaks and a chance to stretch your legs. The short walk to the falls offers a chance to appreciate the rugged landscape, and the fall’s power is impressive even from a distance. Many guests comment on how this stop is a perfect break point, especially for those who want to avoid long hikes but still enjoy a scenic view.

Mount Washburn: Bighorn Sheep and Wildflowers

Driving through Dunraven Pass, the tour makes a stop at Mount Washburn—a favorite for wildlife and flora. Black Bears are often spotted here, and the top of the mountain provides sweeping views of the park. It’s also a prime location for wildflower photography in the spring and summer months.

This part of the trip offers a balanced mix of wildlife sightings and stunning vistas, appealing to both animal enthusiasts and landscape lovers. It’s one of the most scenic parts of the park, and the guide’s local expertise makes your chances of seeing Bighorn Sheep or other animals quite high.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is undoubtedly one of the park’s most iconic sights. The tour stops at the Lower Falls, where the roaring water plunges 308 feet into the canyon below. The view is jaw-dropping, and many guests mention how the sight lives up to its reputation. This stop also provides a chance to capture some memorable photos and learn about the geology that created this natural wonder.

The 45-minute visit allows for a quick but meaningful experience, perfect for fitting into a packed day.

Hayden Valley: Wildlife Hotspot

As you work your way back toward Cody, the vehicle passes through Hayden Valley, another prime location to spot large herds of Bison, Elk, and possibly Grey Wolves. The expansive plains and frequent Bison crossings make this area a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. The guide’s keen eye and the use of binoculars help enhance the experience, making sure you don’t miss the action.

One reviewer shared, “We saw plenty of wildlife, and the guide really knew where to look.” This part of the tour emphasizes the importance of patience and good spotting equipment in wildlife viewing.

Final Stops: Fishing Bridge and Buffalo Bill’s Historic Lodge

Before heading back, there’s a quick stop at the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center for restroom breaks and gift shopping—an opportunity to pick up souvenirs or take a breather. Then, you visit the Pahaska Tepee, Buffalo Bill Cody’s original hunting lodge, which adds a touch of historic flair to the trip.

The last leg takes you along the Buffalo Bill National Scenic Byway, often called “the most scenic drive in America,” passing through the Shoshone National Forest. This route offers more chances to spot wildlife outside the park, plus the scenic beauty of the forest itself.

What Travelers Say

Several reviews highlight the expert guides and their ability to locate wildlife, which is a key part of what makes this tour stand out. One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide, Adam, was super talented in finding wildlife and great spots for photos,” which speaks to the value of experienced guides. Others appreciated the stunning scenery and felt the trip was “spectacular,” fulfilling long-held dreams of seeing Yellowstone.

A small number of travelers expressed disappointment about missing certain sights, like Tower Fall or the eastern route, but overall, feedback remains overwhelmingly positive. The long duration is a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts and those eager to see the park’s major sights in one day, but it does require stamina.

Analyzing the Value and Practical Details

At $223.20 per person, the price covers comprehensive transportation, a guided experience, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and high-quality binoculars and scopes. Considering the inclusion of lunch—a choice of ham, turkey, roast beef, or veggie sandwich—the trip offers good value for a full day of sightseeing and wildlife viewing. The small-group format enhances the experience, ensuring you get attention from your guide and better opportunities to spot animals.

The duration of about 10 to 11 hours is a significant commitment but ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into Yellowstone’s highlights without the hassle of driving or navigating alone. The round-trip transfers from Cody make logistics easier and more comfortable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for nature lovers who want an immersive, guided experience of Yellowstone’s top sights. It’s especially suitable for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers who appreciate expert guidance and quality equipment. Families, solo travelers, or small groups will find the intimate setting and personalized attention a big plus.

If your goal is to see as much of Yellowstone as possible in one day with an informed guide, this tour delivers. However, those seeking a more leisure-oriented experience or with limited mobility should consider the physical demands and long hours involved.

The Sum Up

The Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody offers an engaging, comprehensive way to experience Yellowstone’s wildlife, landscapes, and iconic sights. The small group size, expert guidance, and included equipment make it a standout choice for travelers eager to maximize their park visit without the stress of planning on their own. The carefully crafted itinerary balances wildlife sightings with breathtaking viewpoints, all while providing comfort and convenience.

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and memorable photo opportunities, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for those who value guided expertise and a well-rounded Yellowstone experience in a single day.

For travelers seeking a rich, authentic Yellowstone adventure with plenty of opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography, the Northern Yellowstone Safari is a smart investment.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
You’ll receive round-trip transportation from Cody, a guided experience, lunch (with a choice of sandwiches), bottled water, snacks, and binoculars with a spotting scope.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, starting at 7 a.m. and returning around 6 p.m.

Is the tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, it’s limited to 12 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience and better wildlife viewing opportunities.

Are all major sights covered?
The tour covers key highlights such as Lamar Valley, Tower Fall, Mount Washburn, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Hayden Valley. Some reviews mention missing certain sights like Tower Fall, but the main attractions are included.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include bears, wolves, moose, elk, bison, pronghorn, mountain goats, and possibly coyotes, depending on wildlife activity during your visit.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a sandwich with options of ham, turkey, roast beef, or veggie is provided.

Do I need to prep for the long day?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and patience are recommended. The tour involves a fair amount of driving and outdoor viewing.

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.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Most travelers book about 47 days in advance, but availability can vary. It’s best to reserve early to secure your spot.

This detailed, balanced look at the Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody hopefully helps you decide if it’s the right fit for your Yellowstone adventure. It combines expert guidance, stunning scenery, and plentiful wildlife sightings to make a memorable day for nature lovers.