Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours And Safaris In Cody Wyoming

If you’re dreaming of seeing wild mustangs roaming free amidst rugged Wyoming landscapes, the Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours could be just what you’re after. While we haven’t personally tackled this exact tour, lots of travelers have shared their experiences, making it easier for you to decide if it’s worth your time and money. This tour takes you into the vast McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Herd Management Area, a sprawling 123,000-acre stretch of wilderness where these iconic horses live wild and free.

What really catches our eye about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides who seem to know the area and its wildlife inside and out—something that can turn a good tour into a memorable one. Second, the inclusion of binoculars and a spotting scope means you’ll be able to see the horses clearly, even from afar. But, as with any adventure, there are some things to keep in mind, like the BLM rules limiting how close you can get to the horses. This isn’t a tour designed for those expecting up-close petting or wild horse interactions, but rather for those who appreciate seeing these animals in their natural environment.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who loves exploring the rugged outdoors at a relaxed pace, this tour could suit you well. It’s also a solid option if you’re interested in learning about Wyoming’s rich past, from Native peoples to the frontier days—something your guides weave into the experience. Keep in mind, the price point of $89 per person offers good value, especially considering the length and depth of the experience. Just be prepared for a group size capped at 15, which helps keep things intimate.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: You’ll get a chance to see wild mustangs in their natural habitat, often with the help of binoculars and a spotting scope.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Sherri and Phoebe are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the experience both fun and educational.
• Scenic Landscape: The tour takes place in a stunning, rugged Wyoming landscape, with views of the Badlands and open plains.
• Limited Close Encounters: Due to BLM regulations, the horses are kept at a distance—so don’t expect to pet them, but you’ll get good sightings.
• Value for Money: At $89, the tour offers a solid way to spend a few hours immersed in nature, with knowledgeable commentary.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book about two months ahead, highlighting the popularity of these rides.

An Honest Look at What to Expect

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Day

The tour begins at the meeting point at 1119 12th St, Cody, where you’ll meet your guide and small group—usually capped at 15 people. From there, the journey takes you into the McCullough Peaks Wild Horse Herd Management Area, a vast stretch of Wyoming wilderness that’s perfect for spotting wild mustangs. The area is remote, and the drive itself offers plenty of scenic views, setting the tone for a peaceful, nature-filled experience.

Once in the field, your guide like Sherri or Phoebe will take you to the best vantage points for viewing the herds. They’ll share stories about the horses, their behavior, and history, making the experience educational. Expect to be equipped with binoculars and a spotting scope, both of which come included, so you can see the horses clearly even at a distance. Several reviews mention how close guides try to bring you to the herd, though safety and BLM rules restrict actual proximity.

The Landscape and Wildlife Encounters

Expect to see the rugged Wyoming terrain—a mixture of badlands, open plains, and rocky outcroppings. The scenery alone is worth the trip, with many travelers commenting on the beauty of the landscape. The horses themselves are often seen grazing, running, or resting, and some reviews mention lucky encounters like pronghorns approaching the group.

One reviewer noted that their guide, Olivia, went above and beyond to find different herds, which made the experience more special. This highlights the importance of a knowledgeable guide who can read the land and animal movements to maximize sightings.

The Experience’s Strengths

The guides are a standout feature. Reviewers consistently mention how much they appreciated their guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor. The stories about Wyoming’s history, John Colter, Jim Bridger, Buffalo Bill, and indigenous peoples add richness to the experience, turning a wildlife safari into a little educational adventure.

Another highlight is the scenic landscape. Whether you’re a landscape lover or just enjoy being out in the open, the terrain adds a lot to the tour’s appeal. The inclusion of binoculars and scopes means you don’t have to strain your eyes or rely solely on your naked vision, which many travelers find makes the experience more satisfying.

The Downsides and Limitations

One common criticism is the distance from the horses due to BLM regulations. As one reviewer put it, “BLM doesn’t allow you to get close to the horses,” which can be disappointing if you’re hoping for close-up photos or gentle horse interactions. However, most agree that the guides do the best they can to find and show the animals.

Another point to consider is the price versus what you see. Some travelers expect more excitement, such as horses running or close encounters, and are a bit let down if the sightings are far away. The tour is more about observing than petting or interactive experiences, which is worth noting if that’s what you’re after.

Practicalities: How the Tour Runs

The tour lasts approximately three hours, making it an easy half-day activity. The price of $89 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions and the guidance. Most people book it about 59 days in advance, indicating its popularity. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the mobile ticket makes check-in straightforward.

The meeting point at Cody is convenient, and the tour ends back at the start location. Weather can impact the experience—poor weather might lead to cancellations or rescheduling—so keep an eye on the forecast when planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic landscapes, and learning about Wyoming’s past. It’s suitable for those comfortable with small group tours and who understand that the main focus is wildlife observation from a distance. If your priority is close-up photos or petting animals, this tour might not meet those expectations.

It’s also a good fit for travelers who want a more educational, guided experience rather than just an outdoor drive. The knowledgeable guides and storytelling add a layer of depth to the adventure, making it more meaningful.

The Final Word: Is It Worth It?

For a reasonably priced, three-hour wildlife safari, this tour packs in a good amount of scenic beauty, educational commentary, and wildlife sightings. The guides’ expertise and the scenic Wyoming landscape make it a worthwhile option for those interested in seeing wild horses in their native habitat.

While it might not satisfy thrill-seekers or those expecting close-up interactions, it excels at offering a peaceful, informative, and visually stunning experience that captures the essence of Wyoming’s wilderness. The inclusion of binoculars and scopes, along with the small group size, adds to the feeling of a personalized adventure.

In the end, if you’re okay with viewing the horses from a respectful distance, this tour offers a genuine look at Wyoming’s iconic wild mustangs, set against some truly breathtaking scenery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour is generally accessible for most travelers. Keep in mind the outdoor, sometimes bumpy ride, and that direct interaction with horses is limited.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

What is the price?
The tour costs $89 per person, which is considered good value for the guided experience and included equipment.

Are binoculars and scopes included?
Yes, both binoculars and a spotting scope are provided, helping you see the horses clearly from a distance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour start aren’t eligible for a refund.

What happens in bad weather?
The experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a more personal experience and better chances for sightings.

What kind of wildlife will I see?
The main focus is on the wild mustangs, but the area also hosts other wildlife like pronghorns, which some groups have encountered.

Is this a good value for the price?
Considering the scenic drive, expert guides, wildlife viewing, and included equipment, many find the $89 fee justified, especially given the quality of the experience.

If you’re looking to see Wyoming’s iconic wild mustangs while enjoying a laid-back, scenic, educational outing, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a genuine wildlife encounter with knowledgeable guidance, set against the backdrop of some of the most striking landscapes in the American West.