Finding Peace and Quiet in Cody Yellowstone this Winter

The noise of everyday life can be overwhelming. From honking horns to the hum of home gadgets, it’s challenging to escape the constant sounds of modern-day life. For the sake of our mental and physical well-being, however, we should at least try. 

Cody Yellowstone makes it easy to find a respite from everyday noise. From fishing for trout in a backcountry stream to night skiing at Sleeping Giant – the region’s gem of a ski resort in the Bighorn Basin – intrepid winter visitors will find plenty of ways to recharge their personal batteries in peace and quiet. 

Although Cody Yellowstone is a year-round destination, far fewer visitors travel to this classic vacation destination in the winter, which makes social distancing even easier. Several of the region’s hotels, inns, campgrounds, restaurants and museums remain open throughout the winter.

Here are several activities and experiences that allow visitors to experience quiet and solitude:

Go Cross-Country Skiing Along the Shoshone River

(Photo: @taylorlynzie)

The Park County Nordic Ski Association grooms 19.2 kilometers of classic tracks for cross-country skiing and skate lanes near Pahaksa Tepee, the eastern gateway to Yellowstone National Park. The tracks wind through the Shoshone National Forest and along the Shoshone River. The all-volunteer ski association maintains trails through mid-March. Cross-country skis can be rented at Sunlight Sports, Sleeping Giant Ski Area and other locations. 

Rent a Backcountry Cabin for the Night

The Wood River Valley Ski Touring Park and Cabin offers a comfy respite for solitude-seekers. Located near the town of Meeteetse, the backcountry cabin is an easy ski or hike from the trailhead. The park offers more than 25 kilometers of groomed trails for quiet daytime fun. 

Awake the Sleeping Giant with Night Skiing and Snowboarding

For the first time, Sleeping Giant Ski Area is offering nighttime skiing, with trails lit by solar-powered LED lights. The beloved family-friendly ski area is located 50 miles west of Cody. The resort also offers daytime skiing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. 

Put the “Wild” in Wild West

(Photo:@joysumnerphotography)

Experience wildlife watching early in the morning or at dusk, when wildlife are most active. Bring your binoculars and spotting scopes as well as your common sense and keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Deer, elk, bison, bighorn sheep, eagles and other species can often be observed near roadways. Cody Yellowstone’s website lists several locations where wildlife are often abundant and the quiet of the forests and canyons can be enjoyed. 

Try Winter Camping

Pitch your tent or park your RV at one of several backcountry sites or campgrounds located throughout Park County. Included are one-of-a-kind destinations like Big Quiet Camping, with wall tents, Apsaalooke and Cowboy Range Teepees and tent sites located on an organic farm just outside Powell. A fresh, hot breakfast is included. 

Go Fat-Tire Biking 

There are numerous fat-tire biking trails in Park County where cycling enthusiasts can pedal on even in the winter. The Park County Pedalers website lists information about trails and destinations such as the Beck Lake Bike Park, where fat tire cyclists can explore more than 10 miles of trails.

Climb a Frozen Waterfall

Northern Wyoming’s South Fork Valley is home to numerous backcountry waterfalls where ice climbers can enjoy extreme adventure and stunning views. 

Go Fish

Go ice fishing at the Buffalo Bill Reservoir in Buffalo Bill State Park. For the latest conditions and recommendations, visit the Buffalo Bill State Park website. 

Snow doubt about it, we can’t wait to see you in our winter wonderland this season! Start planning your getaway today!