Pet-Friendly Full-Day Yellowstone Private Tour from Cody, WY
Spend a day with a private guide driving from Cody into Yellowstone’s most famous thermal basins, canyons, and wildlife valleys — and bring your dog. This ten-hour tour covers Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and more with expert interpretation and park logistics handled.
The Experience
Before You Go
Leash and Crate Ready
Many overlooks and trails prohibit dogs; bring a short leash and a crate or tether for the guide to secure your pet while you visit restricted boardwalks.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures swing across Yellowstone — mornings can be near freezing while midday warms; pack a windproof layer and hat.
Binoculars Over Zoom
Wildlife is best seen with binoculars; avoid crowding cars at pullouts and let your guide position the van for safe viewing.
Stay on Boardwalks
Thermal areas are dangerous; stay on designated paths and follow your guide’s instructions to avoid scalding and unstable ground.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Firehole Lake Drive geothermal pullouts for quieter thermal features
- •Blacktail Plateau drive for less-crowded viewpoints and evening wildlife in summer
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk (and occasional wolves)
Conservation Note
Stay on boardwalks and keep dogs secured; geothermal areas and wildlife are sensitive — minimizing litter and noise helps preserve habitats for future visitors.
Yellowstone was designated the first U.S. national park in 1872; parkitecture like the Old Faithful Inn reflects early 20th-century design by Robert Reamer.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point overlooking the Lower Falls
- • Old Faithful boardwalk for eruption shots
- • Grand Prismatic overlook on the Midway Geyser Basin trail
What to Bring
Daypack with water bottleEssential
Keeps snacks, water, and a leash accessible during frequent short stops.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Boardwalks and short trail sections can be uneven or slippery; good traction helps.
Binoculars
Essential for wildlife viewing at a safe distance without disturbing animals.
Dog leash & collapsible bowlEssential
Required for pet control at pullouts and to keep your dog hydrated between stops.
Common Questions
Are dogs allowed everywhere on the tour?
Dogs are welcome on the vehicle and at many overlooks, but park rules prohibit pets on thermal boardwalks and in some trails; your guide will advise and often stay with pets when guests visit restricted areas.
How long is the day and where does it start?
The tour is approximately 10 hours, with pickup offered from Cody city limits (typically from lodging around 7:00 AM) or a meet at Fishing Bridge in Yellowstone at 9:00 AM.
Are park entrance fees included?
National Park fees are included in the tour inclusions, so you don’t need to purchase a separate pass for this trip.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include bison, elk, coyotes and occasionally wolves and grizzly bears; sightings depend on season and wildlife movement.
Is lunch provided?
Yes — a deli-style lunch and snacks are provided, plus bottled water and pop during the drive.
What if the weather is bad?
The operator may cancel for inclement weather; you can get a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure and the tour may be rescheduled or refunded for weather-related cancellations.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours
Location
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity with short boardwalk walks and occasional uneven surfaces; suitable for most fitness levels who can manage short hikes up to one mile.
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