Cody, Wyoming, stands out as a prime base for exploring some of America’s most iconic landscapes. Its location makes it an ideal jumping-off point for full-day tours that showcase Yellowstone’s stunning geothermal features, wildlife, and rugged scenery. What sets Cody apart is its genuine frontier spirit combined with well-organized tours that often include experienced guides and unique experiences like wildlife safaris or river rafting. Instead of crowded city tours, you’ll find options that let you learn about Yellowstone’s natural beauty and Wyoming’s wild side, sometimes with the added perk of pet-friendly adventures or private guides.
If you’re eyeing a full-day Yellowstone adventure or a memorable river excursion, Cody offers a variety of options designed to fit different interests and travel styles. Here’s a quick look at the two standout tours we’ve selected, each with its own appeal, detailed below.
1. Yellowstone Nat’l Park Full Day Tour From Cody, WY
At number one, this comprehensive Yellowstone National Park tour is perfect if you want to see the park’s highlights in one day. For around $275 per person, you get a 10-12 hour adventure that covers thermal features, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing from the comfort of a private vehicle. What makes this tour stand out is the flexible itinerary, tailored by highly experienced guides who adjust routes based on current wildlife activity, weather, and road conditions.
You’ll start at the Yellowstone East Entrance, where your guide will determine the best route to maximize your experience. Stops include Hayden Valley, renowned for wildlife sightings like bison, elk, and sometimes wolves. The guide will use optics to spot animals from afar, making every stop both scenic and wildlife-rich. Another highlight is Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, with spectacular waterfalls and rugged canyon walls. This tour emphasizes the natural landscapes, using scenic drives and easy walks to give you a true sense of Yellowstone’s grandeur.
Guests consistently praise the guide, like one reviewer who said, “Guide Mike was incredible!! Highly recommended!!!!!” The value here is evident considering the roughly 12-hour experience, with a focus on seeing as much as possible. It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided, no-hassle way to cover Yellowstone’s key sights in a single day.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those who want to explore Yellowstone’s main attractions with expert guidance, without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.
2. Full Day Private “Pet Friendly” Yellowstone Tour From Cody Wyo!
Number two on our list is a private, pet-friendly Yellowstone tour, ideal if you want to explore Yellowstone with your furry friend. Costing around $1,499 per group (up to six people), this 10-hour tour offers a more personalized experience, with the added benefit of bringing your pet along.
This tour features a variety of stops, including the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley, Old Faithful, Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, and Yellowstone Lake. A key feature is the whitewater rafting along the North Fork of the Red Canyon River, which is included in some itineraries. During the rafting, you’ll float down the river with a guide at the helm, tackling rapids and soaking in backcountry scenery that extends beyond Yellowstone’s borders. You don’t need prior experience— just a sense of adventure and a life vest— the guides handle all safety concerns.
What makes this tour stand out is its versatility: you get the classic Yellowstone sights along with the chance to explore Wyoming’s backcountry from the water. Reviewers appreciate the mix of wildlife sightings and the picnic lunch provided at the river’s end. Since it combines land and water adventures, it’s perfect for active travelers or families who want a multi-faceted day out.
Bottom line: Best suited for groups seeking a private, flexible day with wildlife, scenic river adventures, and the ability to include their pets.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two tours, consider your interests and travel style. The Yellowstone Nat’l Park Full Day Tour from Cody offers a guided experience ideal for those who want to see Yellowstone’s highlights with minimal planning. It’s a good fit for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a structured day with expert insights.
If you prefer a more exclusive, personalized experience that includes whitewater rafting and pet-friendly options, the full-day private Yellowstone tour is a better fit. It’s especially appealing if you’re comfortable with private guides and outdoor water activities, or if traveling with pets.
Think about your budget, how much wildlife or scenic views matter, and whether you want to combine land and water adventures. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to ensure availability for these popular options.
Final Thoughts
Cody’s full-day tours give you a fantastic variety of ways to experience Yellowstone and Wyoming’s natural beauty. The guided Yellowstone trip is a wonderful option if you want to see the major sights efficiently with expert narration. Meanwhile, the private pet-friendly river trip offers a more personalized, active experience, perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting to include their pets.
Both tours deliver memorable experiences—just pick the one that best matches your style and interests. Whichever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these top-rated adventures in Wyoming’s stunning outdoors.