Yellowstone Safari Company's Stargazing Tour in Cody, Wyoming - Cody

Yellowstone Safari Company's Stargazing Tour in Cody, Wyoming

Codyeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels, as the activity involves sitting and minimal walking

Overview

Join Yellowstone Safari Company for a night under the stars in Cody, Wyoming, where high-powered telescopes reveal the vast beauty of the night sky. This private tour combines celestial wonder with expert guidance, making it perfect for all levels of star enthusiasts. Discover planets, constellations, and distant galaxies in one of the best dark-sky locations in the U.S. and create unforgettable memories beneath the Wyoming night sky.

Details

Sitting just outside the boundaries of Yellowstone National Park in Cody, Wyoming, Yellowstone Safari Company offers a unique way to experience one of America's most awe-inspiring night skies. Their private Stargazing Tour takes visitors away from city lights and into the dark, expansive skies where constellations flicker to life through high-powered telescopes. As the sun dips below the horizon, guides set the scene with tales of celestial navigation, and anticipation builds under a blanket of stars. You’ll witness the glowing band of the Milky Way stretch overhead, spot planets like Jupiter and Saturn, and even catch glimpses of distant galaxies. This journey is perfect for those wanting to see the cosmos in one of the country's premier dark-sky locations, where Wyoming’s high elevation and minimal light pollution combine for crystal-clear viewing.

The terrain around Cody is characterized by rugged plains and forested areas, with occasional wildlife sightings that add to the adventure. The experience aligns with Yellowstone’s longstanding reputation as a haven for natural wonders—both terrestrial and celestial. Guides tailor the session to your interests, making each night uniquely memorable. Whether you're a seasoned astronomer or simply curious about the universe, this tour offers accessible, detailed insights paired with top-tier telescopes.

Yellowstone Safari Company helps visitors forge a deeper connection with the natural world, emphasizing sustainable practices that preserve the clarity of these dark skies. It’s an ideal addition to any Yellowstone trip, combining the majesty of the park’s wilderness with the intrigue of the cosmos above. As you lay back under the Wyoming sky, the universe feels a little closer—and infinitely more accessible.

Adventure Tips

Dress warmly for nighttime conditions

Temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, so layer up to stay comfortable during the tour.

Bring a red flashlight

A red flashlight helps preserve night vision while reading maps or adjusting equipment.

Arrive early for the best viewing spots

Getting to the meeting point ahead of schedule ensures optimal telescope setup and a clear view of the sky.

Use binoculars or a lens for better viewing

Additional optic gear can enhance the experience, especially when spotting faint objects or details in planets.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Visit the nearby Shoshone National Forest for daytime hikes
  • Check out the Old Trail Town museum in Cody

Wildlife

  • Deer and elk sightings are common in the surrounding forests
  • Nighttime calls of coyotes may be heard

History

Cody was founded by buffalo hunter and showman William F. 'Buffalo Bill' Cody, blending frontier history with modern adventure tourism.

Conservation

The area emphasizes dark-sky preservation by limiting light pollution, ensuring future generations can enjoy these celestial wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

new moon nights for minimal moonlight interference
mid-night hours, ideally after midnight

Best Viewpoints

  • designated darker sky areas outside Cody
  • hilltops with unobstructed views

What to Photograph

Milky Way arcs
planets like Jupiter and Saturn
nearby mountain silhouettes

Recommended Gear

Warm clothing and layered apparel

Essential

Layered clothing helps maintain comfort during prolonged outdoor stargazing sessions in Wyoming's variable climate.

winter|spring|fall|summer specific

Red flashlight

Essential

Red light preserves night vision while allowing you to see and read without disturbing others.

Blanket or pad

A comfortable place to sit or lie down enhances your viewing experience, especially on cold nights.

all specific

Camera with a tripod

Capture the breathtaking skies above with long-exposure astrophotography.

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