Yellowstone Upper Loop Wildlife & Photo Tour from Cody — Lamar Valley, Mammoth & Grand Canyon
Spend a full day with expert guides on an all-inclusive Upper Loop tour from Cody that targets Yellowstone’s biggest draws: Lamar Valley wildlife, Mammoth Hot Springs travertine, Tower Falls and the Yellowstone Grand Canyon. Ideal for photographers and first-time visitors who want an efficient, interpretive experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive ready for an early start
Pickup often begins around 7 a.m.; arriving on time maximizes wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley when animals are most active.
Layer your clothing
Temperatures swing widely through the day—mornings can be cold even in summer—so pack breathable layers and a wind shell.
Respect wildlife distances
Guides will set viewing distances; do not approach animals for a closer shot—binoculars and the provided spotting scope are safer.
Plan lunch logistics
You can buy food in Mammoth or bring a packed lunch; food lines can be long during peak season so pack snacks to tide you over.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pullouts on the north side of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone for angled light and fewer crowds
- •Early-morning overlooks in Lamar Valley just off the main road where elk and coyotes often feed quietly
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk (and often wolf sightings in Lamar Valley)
Conservation Note
Yellowstone manages visitor impact with boardwalks and strict wildlife distance rules; stay on trails and follow guide instructions to protect fragile thermal features and wildlife.
This route follows travel corridors used by Indigenous tribes and later by mountain men and early explorers; Roosevelt’s 1903 visit helped solidify Yellowstone’s national profile.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lamar Valley pullouts for wildlife portraits
- • Mammoth Hot Springs terraces for abstract textures
- • Upper and Lower Canyon viewpoints for waterfall and canyon light
What to Bring
Binoculars (compact 8x-10x)Essential
Helps spot wildlife at distance; a spotting scope is provided but personal optics are convenient.
Telephoto lens or long zoom
200–600mm lenses capture close-up wildlife shots from safe distances.
Layered clothing and wind shellEssential
Rapid weather changes make breathable layers and a windproof outer layer essential.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Support for short walks on uneven boardwalks and viewing pullouts.
Common Questions
What time does the tour start and how long is it?
Pickup begins in Cody around 7 a.m., with additional pick ups at Wapiti and Fishing Bridge; the tour is a full-day experience of about 12 hours.
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes—park entrance fees are included in the tour price.
Will we definitely see wolves or bears?
Wildlife sightings are common, especially in Lamar Valley, but sightings cannot be guaranteed due to animal movement and weather.
Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility limitations?
The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, but check with the operator about specific mobility needs at thermal boardwalks.
What should I bring for food and water?
Snacks and beverages are provided, but bring a packed lunch or plan to buy food in Mammoth where there are delis and restaurants.
Can I bring my pet?
Only service animals are allowed; pets are not permitted in thermal areas and must follow park rules.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
12 hours (full day)
Location
Cody, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—expect long periods seated in the van and short, accessible walks at viewpoints.
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