Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody, WY

Exploring the Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody, WY: An Honest Look

If you’re considering a day trip into Yellowstone, this Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody offers a well-rounded way to see some of the park’s most iconic sights. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, the excellent reviews, detailed itinerary, and thoughtful planning suggest that it’s a solid choice for anyone eager to explore Yellowstone’s upper loop and wildlife without the hassle of driving themselves.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the small group size, which promises more personal attention from your guide, and the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities. Plus, the convenience of round-trip transportation from Cody makes it easier to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about navigation or parking. That said, a potential consideration is the long days and limited time at each stop, which means you won’t get to linger long at each site.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love nature and wildlife but might not want to spend their entire trip navigating park roads or managing multiple stops independently. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing, with plenty of opportunities to spot animals and take photos, it could be a great fit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip with lunch, snacks, and gear provided
• Wildlife sightings of bears, wolves, moose, and more are a highlight
• Scenic stops like Lamar Valley, Grand Canyon, and Tower Fall
• Small group size (max 12 people) for a more personalized experience
• Pick-up and drop-off included from Cody, simplifying logistics
• Cost at $248 per person offers good value when considering all included features

An In-Depth Look at the Yellowstone Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Yellowstone’s northern range, tailored for those who want an engaging, guided exploration with plenty of chances to see wildlife and stunning landscapes. The itinerary is packed, covering some of the park’s most famous sights along with scenic drives that are just as impressive as the stops themselves.

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The adventure kicks off at 6:00 am from the Walmart Supercenter in Cody. The early start means you’ll beat the crowds and catch the park at its most peaceful, though it also requires a good deal of energy. The small group size—limited to 12 travelers—means you’ll have room to move around comfortably in the air-conditioned vehicle and get personal attention from your guide. Many reviews mention the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with some going out of their way to make sure everyone gets great photo opportunities.

Driving the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway

The first major segment is a scenic drive along the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. Stops at Dead Indian’s Pass and Pilot Peak provide spectacular views and the chance to spot wildlife like moose, grizzly bears, coyotes, and mountain goats—especially as you approach the Wyoming-Montana border. This part of the tour is appreciated for its breathtaking scenery and the opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat. Reviewers have noted this stretch often yields some of the best wildlife sightings of the day.

Entering Yellowstone through the Northeast Gate

The group enters Yellowstone through the park’s less trafficked Northeast Gate, which helps keep the experience more intimate and less crowded. From there, you’ll spend roughly nine hours inside the park, which is a good balance of sightseeing and wildlife viewing. The guide’s expertise in spotting animals enhances this part of the trip, as many guests have commented on their guides’ ability to locate bears, wolves, and other wildlife that might be hidden from plain sight.

Lamar Valley: The Wildlife Hotspot

One of the tour’s main highlights is Lamar Valley—often called the “Serengeti of the West” for its rich wildlife. Here, you’ll spend around an hour and a half searching for animals like black and grizzly bears, wolves, moose, pronghorn, and mountain goats. Many reviews emphasize how rewarding this stop is, with guests praising guides for their eagle eyes and patience. As one reviewer put it, “I saw everything on my list and more,” thanks to their guide’s knack for finding wildlife in various terrains.

Iconic Stops: Tower Fall and Mount Washburn

Next, the tour takes you to Tower Fall, a stunning waterfall that’s been inspiring artists and photographers since the park’s early days. It’s a good spot for stretching your legs, grabbing photos, and perhaps browsing the gift shop or grabbing a quick snack.

Driving over Dunraven Pass toward Canyon Village, you’ll pause at Mount Washburn—a favorite for both wildlife sightings, like black bears, and wildflower viewing. The views from the top are spectacular, and many find this part of the trip highlights Yellowstone’s rugged beauty.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

No visit to Yellowstone is complete without seeing the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Here, you’ll stop at the Lower Falls, one of the park’s most photographed and awe-inspiring sights. Expect about 45 minutes to absorb the views, take photos, and appreciate the power of nature.

Winding Down in Hayden Valley and Beyond

As the day winds down, the group heads to Hayden Valley, another prime wildlife viewing area. Here, herds of bison, elk, and sometimes wolves can be seen crossing the roads, especially around Bison Crossing. Guests often find this to be a fitting end to their wildlife quest.

The final stops include Fishing Bridge, where you can use facilities and perhaps pick up a souvenir, along with a visit to Pahaska Tepee, Buffalo Bill’s historic hunting lodge. The tour wraps up with a scenic drive through the Shoshone National Forest, dubbed by Teddy Roosevelt as “the most scenic drive in America.”

Returning to Cody

You’ll arrive back around 6 pm, completing an immersive, full-day Yellowstone adventure. Many reviews mention how smoothly everything flows, especially with the included lunch—offering options like ham, turkey, roast beef, or veggie sandwiches—that keeps everyone fueled for the day.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a generally very positive picture. Many guests praise the well-organized nature of the trip and the knowledge and friendliness of guides. For example, one reviewer mentioned that their guide took extra photos of the group and knew all the best spots for photos.

Some minor critiques include the pickup timing, with one guest noting a slight delay, but the tour provider’s response shows they’re attentive to such issues. Travelers appreciate the value for money, especially considering the extensive itinerary, wildlife sightings, and included amenities like snacks, water, and lunch.

The Value of This Tour

At $248 per person, this experience offers good value if you’re interested in seeing Yellowstone’s highlights without the hassle of planning or driving. The included transportation, lunch, binoculars, and spotting scope elevate the experience, making it more comfortable and accessible. The small-group setup means you’ll get more personalized attention, often a big plus when trying to spot elusive wildlife.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This full-day trip suits nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and first-time visitors who want a guided experience to maximize their chances of seeing Yellowstone’s iconic sights and animals. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and a long day of travel, this tour provides a great way to cover a lot of ground in one go.

Final Thoughts

The Northern Yellowstone Safari from Cody provides a carefully curated, well-rounded experience that balances scenic drives, wildlife sightings, and iconic landmarks. The small group size, knowledgeable guide, and included amenities make it a hassle-free way to enjoy Yellowstone’s upper loop. While you won’t have hours at each stop, the tour offers enough time to appreciate the highlights and capture memorable photos.

If you’re after a guided, wildlife-rich adventure that maximizes your day, this tour could be an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer organized trips with everything taken care of and enjoy being part of a small, friendly group.

FAQs

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour begins at 6:00 am, so be prepared for an early start from Cody.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from Cody to Yellowstone are included, making logistics much easier.

What does the tour include?
It includes bottled water, snacks, a picnic lunch with your choice of sandwich, binoculars, and a spotting scope.

How long is the tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, ending around 6 pm.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is this suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the full-day nature and wildlife focus suggest it’s best for older children or teens who can handle long days outdoors.

Are admission fees included?
Most park sites are included, but some fees like landing or facility fees are not covered.

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

Exploring Yellowstone with a guide on this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. If you’re looking to see the park’s highlights efficiently, while enjoying expert insights and wildlife encounters, this trip from Cody is worth considering.