Cody, WY
Cody, Wyoming: Gateway to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
About Cody, WY
Nestled at the base of the rugged Absaroka Mountain Range, Cody, Wyoming is a quintessential Rocky Mountain town that serves as an outdoor recreation hub for adventurers exploring the greater Yellowstone region. With an elevation of 5,015 feet, the town's high-desert landscape is characterized by dramatic canyons, vast grasslands, and dense alpine forests. Just 50 miles from the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, Cody provides easy access to world-class hiking, camping, fly fishing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. In the summer, the town celebrates its Western heritage with a world-famous rodeo, while fall brings vibrant foliage and fewer crowds. No matter the season, Cody's charming main street, packed with museums, galleries, and authentic saloons, offers a lively base camp for outdoor enthusiasts.
Campgrounds & Shelters
Popular Activities
Best Seasons
Getting There
Cody is located approximately 50 miles from the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The closest major airport is Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) in Cody, with additional options in Billings, MT (BIL) and Jackson Hole, WY (JAC). The town is easily accessible via US-14/16/20, a scenic byway that winds through the Shoshone National Forest.
Nearby Parks & Forests
- •Yellowstone National Park
- •Shoshone National Forest
- •Bighorn National Forest
- •Bridger-Teton National Forest
Local Tips
For the best wildlife viewing, head out early in the morning or just before dusk. Fly fishing is excellent on the Shoshone and Greybull Rivers, with local outfitters offering guided trips. Visitors should also check the schedule for the Cody Nite Rodeo, a summertime tradition since 1938.