Overview

As a tribute to the Wild West nature of Cody, Wyoming, the town Cody is named after William “Buffalo Bill” Cody, famous for his Wild West show. It’s a popular recreation destination due to the surrounding Beartooth Mountains, the Absaroka Range and the Wapiti Valley to the south.

Location

Cody is in the northwestern part of Wyoming, east of Yellowstone National Park, on Highway 14 where it intersects with Highway 120.

Services/Amenities

You will find a wide array of lodging to choose from in Cody. Pick an economy hotel, a familiar motel chain or a luxurious lodge. You’ll also find the more rustic bed and breakfasts or rustic cabins with views.

If you want to try some delicious Western fare, then Cody is the place to do it! There are fast food stops where you can have a sub, sandwich or pizza, but evening dining is best done at any of the excellent restaurants. Italian, Asian or Mexican cuisine – the choice is yours.

Activities

Surrounded by wilderness areas and forests, Cody is a perfect place to make a home base while you explore and have adventures.

Hiking
All around the Cody area you’ll find hiking trails, like in the Shoshone National Forest, Teton Mountains and the Big Horn Recreation Area. In Yellowstone National Park you’ll also find plenty of hiking trails.

Wildlife Watching
Shoshone National Forest is home to all sorts of wildlife, as well as in the Wapiti Valley. You are sure to spot black bears, grizzlies, bison, big horn sheep, elk and moose. Perhaps a mountain goat or wolf will make an appearance.

Horseback Riding
You’ll find superior horseback riding all around Cody, particularly in the Absaroka Range of the Rockies. Take off into the wilderness and experience the Wild West as only riding horseback can provide.

Whitewater Rafting
For some excitement, you can attempt shooting the rapids below the Buffalo Bill Dam. Best to hire a guide for this adventure unless you are an expert whitewater rafter.

Attractions

Yellowstone National Park
The top attraction near Cody is, naturally, Yellowstone Park. It goes without saying you’ll be touring Yellowstone.

Buffalo Bill Historic Center
The pioneer history of Cody comes alive here, with five famous museums under one roof. Explore the history of the American West.

Cody Night Rodeo
Every night in the summer, from June 1 to August 31, you can enjoy the Cody Night Rodeo. Watch the cowboys and cowgirls compete, riding broncs or bulls, barrel racing and calf roping.

Old Trail Town
At Old Trail Town you’ll be able to see preserved buildings from as early as 1879, as well as a huge number of horse-drawn vehicles and Native American artifacts.

Getting Here

To get to West Yellowstone from Cody, Wyoming, simply take US 14/16 to the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, head through the park, taking the loop road either north or south to Madison, where you can head directly west to West Yellowstone. Be sure to take in all the sights along the way!