Full-Day Yellowstone Wildlife Safari in Lamar Valley — From Cody, WY
Spend a full day chasing wildlife through Lamar Valley with a professional naturalist guide out of Cody, Wyoming. Expect long views, optics-fueled encounters with bison and wolves, and a practical, flexible itinerary tailored to what’s actually moving on the landscape.
The Experience
Before You Go
Morning is prime time
Start early—animal activity peaks at sunrise and for a couple hours after; guides time stops to coincide with these windows.
Bring layered clothing
Valley temperatures swing widely through the day—pack warm and waterproof layers even in summer.
Respect wildlife distances
Keep inside the vehicle or stay 100+ yards from bears and wolves; use spotting scopes and your guide’s expertise for close views.
Pack snacks and water
Although a picnic lunch is provided, bring a refillable water bottle and personal snacks for the long day.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Slough Creek meadows for quiet birding and river reflections
- •Shoshone Canyon overlooks on the return through Cody for late-afternoon light
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Gray wolves (and coyotes)
Conservation Note
Strict wildlife distancing rules and limited group sizes help reduce disturbance; visitors are encouraged to pack out trash and follow ‘leave no trace’ principles.
Lamar Valley sits within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem—land used for millennia by Indigenous peoples and later surveyed in the 19th century expeditions that helped create Yellowstone National Park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lamar Valley pullouts overlooking the Yellowstone River
- • Slough Creek banks for reflections and waterfowl
- • Soda Butte Road pullouts for wide valley panoramas
What to Bring
Binoculars
Helps you scan distant ridgelines and pick out subtle movements before the group stops.
Insulating layersEssential
Early mornings are cold—pack warm mid-layers and a windproof shell.
Waterproof jacketEssential
Afternoon storms are common; a light rain shell keeps you comfortable during stops.
Telephoto camera or lens
A 200–400mm range captures wildlife behavior without needing to approach animals.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and end?
Meet in Cody, WY at the designated departure point; the tour returns to the same location at the end of the day.
Are park entrance fees included?
No—Yellowstone park fees and gratuities are not included in the tour price.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes—children aged 8 and older may participate; car seats are not provided so bring one if required.
What animals can we expect to see?
Typical sightings include bison, elk, pronghorn, mule deer, wolves, coyotes, and a variety of raptors; sightings are never guaranteed.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The operator lists the tour as wheelchair accessible—contact them ahead of booking to confirm specific needs.
What if weather or road conditions close sections of the park?
Tours may be adjusted or canceled for safety; guides will reroute to other wildlife-rich areas when possible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–12 hours
Location
Cody, Wyoming
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—minimal hiking required but long periods in a vehicle and short standing watches mean basic mobility helps.
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