Yellowstone Lower Loop Highlights: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic & Canyon Day Tour from Cody
This full-day Lower Loop tour from Cody threads Yellowstone’s most famous scenes—Grand Prismatic, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley and Old Faithful—into a single, well-paced day. Expect geothermal wonders, roadside wildlife viewing, and short walks on boardwalks and overlooks.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for sudden weather shifts
High elevation and changing mountain weather mean mornings can be chilly and afternoons warm—pack a light insulating layer and waterproof shell.
Bring a zoom or binoculars
Wildlife tends to linger at a distance; 8–10x binoculars or a 70–200mm lens helps you see detail without disturbing animals.
Stay on boardwalks in thermal areas
The crust around hot springs is thin and unstable—off-trail travel risks serious injury and damages fragile microbial communities.
Expect a long day and bring snacks
The tour runs 10–12 hours with multiple short stops; carry extra snacks and refillable water in addition to provided bottled water.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk to the Fairy Falls view for a quieter vantage of Grand Prismatic
- •Stop at West Thumb shoreline for thermal pools meeting Yellowstone Lake
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails to protect fragile thermal features; keep at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other wildlife to minimize disturbance.
Yellowstone was designated the world’s first national park in 1872; its protection formalized new ideas about public land and conservation.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point overlooking the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
- • Grand Prismatic overlook or Fairy Falls approach
- • Old Faithful boardwalks and Old Faithful Inn veranda
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Protects against rain, sleet and wind common at Yellowstone’s elevation.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Boardwalks and short dirt paths can be uneven—supportive shoes reduce fatigue.
Binoculars or telephoto lensEssential
Essential for wildlife viewing in Hayden Valley and along the lake.
Insulating mid-layer
A fleece or lightweight down adds warmth in cool mornings and late afternoons.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The full-day Lower Loop tour lasts about 10–12 hours, depending on traffic and wildlife sightings.
Where does the tour pick up?
Pickups are available at lodging within Cody city limits and several hotel points; there’s also a meeting option at Fishing Bridge General Store inside the park.
Are meals included?
Lunch is not included—there are cafes such as the Old Faithful Inn where you can purchase food, and the operator provides snacks and bottled water.
Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes; the tour is rated easy and suitable for most fitness levels, though mobility-limited guests should confirm ability to handle short walks and stairs at viewpoints.
What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include bison, elk, coyotes, and waterfowl; bears and wolves are possible but less common—maintain safe distances at all times.
Can the schedule change due to weather or wildlife?
Yes. The operator may alter stops or timing for safety, road conditions, or to avoid congesting active wildlife zones.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–12 hours
Location
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can board a minibus and manage several short, unpaved walks; minimal hiking fitness required.
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