Guided Lower Loop of Yellowstone from Cody, WY

If you’re considering a guided tour of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop starting from Cody, WY, you’re in for an experience that’s both convenient and packed with some of the park’s best sights. This tour, offered by CoveredGround Tours, has earned a glowing reputation with a perfect 5.0 rating from travelers and countless positive reviews. It’s designed for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What really caught our eye about this trip is how well-organized it appears—covering major sites like Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and the Grand Prismatic Spring, all within roughly 11 to 12 hours. Plus, the fact that it includes lunch, water, and binoculars makes it feel like a good bang for your buck. That said, with a price of $269 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but the reviews suggest many feel the value matches the cost.

A potential consideration? Since it’s a long day, you’ll want to be prepared for a lot of busier spots and possibly some traffic delays, especially around popular sights like Old Faithful. Also, the trip is capped at 11 travelers, which feels intimate but still might be a bit crowded for some. Still, if you prefer guided experiences that cover the highlights efficiently, this tour might be just what you need.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free Yellowstone experience—especially if you’re short on time or prefer to leave the logistics to someone else. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned park visitor, you might find it’s a great way to hit the highlights with expert insights along the way.

Key Points

• All-in-One Day Tour: Covers the park’s major highlights from Cody, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule.
• Small Group Feel: With a maximum of 11 travelers, you get a more personal experience and better chances to ask questions.
• Inclusive Amenities: Lunch, water, and binoculars are provided, reducing what you need to bring and making wildlife spotting easier.
• Expert Guides: Reviews rave about knowledgeable guides who share engaging information and help spot wildlife.
• Flexible Stops: The itinerary includes iconic sites like Artist Point, Old Faithful, and Grand Prismatic, plus scenic drives.
• Value for Price: Many reviewers feel the tour’s cost is justified by the convenience, sights, and guide expertise.

Detailed Breakdown of the Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour

Starting Out: Comfortable Transportation and Early Pickup

The day begins early with hotel pickup in Cody at 7 am, which is perfect if you’re staying in Cody and want to avoid the hassle of driving yourself. There’s also an option to be picked up inside Yellowstone at Fishing Bridge at 9 am, which can be handy if you’re already in the park. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle with a small group means you’re comfortable and have space to relax. Plus, the group size caps at 11 travelers, making it more intimate than big bus tours.

First Stops: Wildlife and Hydrothermal Features

The drive along Buffalo Bill National Scenic Byway sets a scenic tone for the day, with plenty of chances to spot wildlife along the Northfork Highway. You’ll stop briefly at Fishing Bridge, where thousands of cutthroat trout spawn annually. This is a short but interesting peek into Yellowstone’s ecological life.

Next, you’ll visit Dragon’s Mouth Springs and Mud Volcano, two sites that showcase Yellowstone’s geothermal activity. Expect to see bubbling mud pots and fumaroles—think of these as Yellowstone’s natural steam vents and hot springs with some dramatic, earthy visuals. The 15-minute stop here is enough to get a feel for the park’s geothermal power, and many reviews mention how engaging guides are in explaining what you’re seeing.

Midday: Iconic Vistas and Waterfalls

Driving through Hayden Valley, the guide will always slow down to look for wildlife—bears, wolves, bison, elk—you never know what might appear. This area is renowned for its wildlife sightings, and the fact that the guide actively looks out for animals adds a lot of value.

A highlight for many is Artist Point—arguably the most famous view of Yellowstone’s Lower Falls. With about 30 minutes here, you’ll get ample time to soak in the breathtaking scenery and snap some photos. One reviewer called it “one of the best views you will ever see,” and it’s easy to see why.

Next up is the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. You’ll visit another viewpoint in addition to Artist Point, allowing you to appreciate the vibrant, towering walls and the mighty 308-foot waterfall from different angles. Most travelers say this spot is a must-see, and it’s easy to see why—it’s a real showstopper.

Afternoon: Geysers, Hot Springs, and Old Faithful

The tour then moves to Canyon Village for a quick rest and snack. Afterward, you’ll visit Gibbon Falls—a centrally located waterfall that offers a peaceful, scenic stop.

The Firehole Canyon Drive is a short, scenic 2-mile route that showcases the river and waterfalls, a highlight for nature lovers. Then, you’ll cruise past the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the world. Depending on traffic, the guide might stop for a close-up view—many reviews call this the most colorful and intriguing geothermal feature in the park.

The star of the tour is Old Faithful, which erupts roughly every 90 minutes. The scheduled stop guarantees you’ll witness this iconic geyser’s spectacular spray, and you’ll have about 90 minutes here to explore the historic Inn, shops, and other geothermal features nearby. Many reviews praise the guide’s insights and the chance to see a true Yellowstone classic.

Wrapping Up: Yellowstone Lake and Return to Cody

The tour concludes with a visit to West Thumb Geyser Basin, where geothermal activity lines the shoreline of Yellowstone Lake—the largest high-altitude lake in North America. You’ll get to walk a scenic boardwalk past mud pots, fumaroles, and hot springs.

Finally, you’ll return to Cody by about 4 pm, ending a packed but well-paced day. If you’re staying in Yellowstone, there’s an option for pickup at Fishing Bridge, giving flexibility.

Why This Tour is Worth It

Many travelers mention how knowledgeable and personable their guides are—guides like Cody, Jack, Emma, and Dawna receive special praise for their explanations and patience. The reviews repeatedly highlight how these guides enhance the experience by sharing interesting facts and helping locate animals.

The inclusion of lunch and binoculars makes a tangible difference. Wildlife viewing in Hayden Valley or spotting distant geysers is much easier when you have binoculars, and having a ready-made lunch means you won’t need to hunt for food during the busy day.

You’ll also appreciate the well-chosen stops—each site offers something unique, from the vibrant colors of the Grand Prismatic to the awe-inspiring views at Artist Point. The itinerary covers Yellowstone’s most famous spots efficiently, giving you a comprehensive taste of the park.

Potential Drawbacks

The main thing to keep in mind is that this is a long day, and some might find the schedule a bit rushed, especially if they want more time at each stop. Traffic delays or crowds could also affect the experience, particularly at Old Faithful or the Grand Prismatic Spring. It’s worth considering if you prefer a more flexible or leisurely pace.

While the price of $269 might seem steep to some, many reviewers believe the convenience, expert guidance, and inclusions like lunch make it a worthwhile investment. It’s especially suited for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of driving or navigating the park themselves.

Final Thoughts

If your goal is to see the best of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop in one day with a knowledgeable guide handling logistics, this tour checks a lot of boxes. It’s a practical choice for first-timers or travelers with limited time who want a rundown. The small group size and inclusion of amenities make for a comfortable, engaging experience.

The route hits all the must-see sites—the geysers, waterfalls, scenic vistas, and wildlife—without requiring you to piece together different park routes yourself. Plus, the positive reviews suggest that the guides truly make a difference, sharing insights and keeping the day lively.

While it’s not the cheapest option, many say it’s worth the price for the ease and quality of the experience. If you enjoy guided tours and want a well-rounded Yellowstone trip, this is definitely something to consider.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your Cody hotel is offered at 7 am. There’s also an option for pickup inside Yellowstone at Fishing Bridge at 9 am.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 11 to 12 hours, making it a full-day adventure that covers park highlights efficiently.

What’s included in the tour?
You get bottled water, a provided lunch, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

Can I see Old Faithful erupt?
Yes, you’re guaranteed to see Old Faithful erupt during the scheduled stop, which lasts around 1.5 hours.

Is this tour suitable for wildlife photography?
While binoculars are provided, the tour is more about sightseeing than dedicated wildlife photography, but the stops in Hayden Valley are great for spotting animals.

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

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 68 days ahead, so it’s wise to reserve early to secure your spot.

If you’re looking to experience Yellowstone’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers a well-organized, insightful day with plenty of memorable sights. Just pack your curiosity and prepare for a day full of natural beauty and expert commentary.