Wapiti Valley (Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway)
Wapiti Valley / North Fork Shoshone River
The river valley from Cody to Yellowstone's East Entrance, which Theodore Roosevelt called 'the most beautiful 52 miles in America.' Weathered rock formations, ranches and wildlife can be seen along the way.
This roughly 80 km Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway follows the North Fork of the Shoshone River through Shoshone National Forest. Volcanic rock on both sides has been weathered into spires, arches and other unusual shapes, such as the 'Holy City' and 'Elephant Head.' Traditional guest ranches are scattered along the valley. Bighorn sheep, elk and mule deer are commonly seen, and grizzly and black bears occasionally appear, so keep a safe viewing distance. The Wapiti Ranger Station in the valley was built in 1903 and was the first ranger station in any US national forest. The drive to the East Entrance takes about 1.5 hours. The East Entrance is closed in winter, roughly from early November to early May.
Opening hours
Open all day (some sections and the Yellowstone East Entrance closed in winter)
Nearby sights
- Smith Mansion
- Pahaska Tepee
- Dead Indian Pass Overlook
- Buffalo Bill Dam
- Cody Nite Rodeo
- Old Trail Town
- Shoshone River Rafting
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West