Rapper Kanye West and wife Kim Kardashian West just purchased a $14- million ranch in Cody, Wyoming. The 1,400-acre Monster Lake Ranch resort, renamed West Lake, is now a private summer getaway for the Kardashian West family. Situated about 75 miles from Yellowstone National Park, Cody was their top choice for a family retreat bathed in natural beauty.
Like the Wests, you’re advised to start planning your Cody Yellowstone getaway now. This last year, Steamboat Geyser–the world’s tallest geyser–broke all eruption records, making the park an exciting destination for 2020. The Cody Yellowstone visitor officials have some good advice for making sure your vacation is memorable.
Plan the most interesting route
With two designated Scenic Byways (Buffalo Bill and Chief Joseph) between Cody and Yellowstone National Park, travelers can enjoy forests, valleys, mountain passes and historical stops that confirm that the journey is a major part of the vacation.
Budget enough time for town
It’s not uncommon for return visitors to build in extra time because they simply did not realize the first time there was so much to see and do. History buffs might come for the Buffalo Museum at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and not realize that they should also check out the Heart Mountain WWII Interpretive Center and the Old Trail Town & Museum of the Old West. Those who are adventure-oriented may want to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting and some of the world’s best trout fishing.
Budget enough time for the park
At close to 2.2 million acres, Yellowstone is bigger than the states of Delaware and Rhode Island combined. Many people drive through the park in a single day with a stop to watch Old Faithful erupt. It is highly recommended that guests stay overnight in the park or make multiple day trips. Either way, there are too many hikes to take, visitor centers to visit, wildlife to watch and thermal features to learn about in a single day.
Choose your timing
Travelers who wish to experience Cody’s acclaimed Cody Nite Rodeo should schedule their vacations between June 1 and August 31. Many attractions are open year-round. Park roads are all open to wheeled vehicles in summer while most of the park is open only to over-the-snow vehicles in winter. During early spring and late fall, it’s best to check on road closures.
Figure out transportation
For road-trippers, getting there is part of the fun. The American West is home to historical sites and markers, expansive landscapes and an array of wildlife, which can often be viewed from pull-outs or alongside roads. Vacationers who prefer to fly will find daily flights to the Yellowstone Regional Airport, located five minutes from town.
Leave some time to relax
Many people think that they need to fill up every waking moment, but that approach results in stress, fatigue and various activities all running together. Slowing down to eat an ice cream cone, watch bald eagles and listen to local music such as Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue.
About Cody Yellowstone
Home of the Great American Adventure, Cody Yellowstone is comprised of the northwestern Wyoming towns of Cody, Powell and Meeteetse as well as the valley east of Yellowstone National Park. The region is known for rodeos, authentic guest and dude ranches, world-class museums and recreational adventures that reflect the adventurous spirit of the visionaries and explorers who brought the remote region to the world’s attention. Find more information here.
Photos courtesy of Cody Yellowstone/TravMedia
