Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway |
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| Lua error in Module:Infobox_road/map at line 15: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value). | |
| Route information | |
| Length | 27.5 mi (44.3 km) |
| Existed | May 14, 1991–present |
| Highway system | |
| State highways in Wyoming | |
The Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway is a super cool road in Wyoming, USA. It stretches almost all the way from Cody, Wyoming to Yellowstone National Park. This amazing highway is about 27.5-mile (44.3 km) long.
It follows the north fork of the Shoshone River through the beautiful Wapiti Valley. The byway ends at Sylvan Pass, which is the eastern entrance to Yellowstone. Most of this scenic road is inside the Shoshone National Forest. It's also known as US Highway 14, US 16, and US 20.
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Exploring the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway
The Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway begins in the town of Cody. It follows US 14/US 16/US 20 right along the Shoshone River. This route is famous for its amazing wildlife, incredible rock formations, and lots of fun things to do outdoors.
About 6 miles (9.7 km) west of Cody, the highway passes by the Buffalo Bill Reservoir. This reservoir is a great spot for catching trout! It's also part of Buffalo Bill State Park. At the park, you can go camping, have a picnic, enjoy boating, or even try windsurfing.
Discovering Shoshone National Forest
After the reservoir, the highway enters the Shoshone National Forest. This forest was created in 1891 as part of the Yellowstone Timberland Reserve. It's one of the oldest national forests in the United States!
You can find one of the oldest Forest Service ranger stations in the Wapiti Valley. Stop at the visitor center near the station. You'll learn about the area's history and find out where to go camping or hiking.
Wildlife in Wapiti Valley
The name "Wapiti Valley" comes from an Indian word for elk. So, it's no surprise that the valley is home to lots of elk! You might also spot grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, moose, and deer.
Keep your eyes peeled for these animals. They often feed along stream banks, on grassy areas, or on brushy hillsides. It's an amazing place to see nature up close!
Historic Spots Along the Byway
Buffalo Bill Cody himself built his hunting lodge, called Pahaska Teepee, right here. It's nestled under a big cliff. This building is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Wapiti Valley also has fourteen beautiful, historic lodges. These lodges offer places to stay for a night, a week, or even a month. They are perfect as a home base for exploring Cody Country.
At the end of the Wapiti Valley, the highway enters Yellowstone National Park. This is where the Byway officially ends. It's a fantastic way to start your adventure into the wonders of Yellowstone!
Cool Places to See
There are many interesting places to visit along the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway. These include:
All these spots are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Wapiti Ranger Station is even a National Historic Landmark!
Historic dude ranches along the byway used to welcome tourists heading to Yellowstone. Some of these include the Elephant Head Lodge, Absaroka Mountain Lodge, and the Red Star Lodge.
History of the Scenic Byway
The Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway received a special honor on May 14, 1991. It was named a National Forest Scenic Byway. A few years later, in 1995, it was also named a Wyoming State Scenic Byway. These titles recognize its amazing beauty and importance.
