Fall in Cody, Yellowstone is a season that must be experienced to be believed. A time to catch a glimpse of our resident moose, elk, and bison against a dazzling autumnal landscape painted in hues of amber and gold. To cast a line in Park County’s secluded streams and rivers during prime fishing season. To immerse yourself in true tales of prospectors, gunslingers, and the authentic American West. And to explore the best of Buffalo Bill’s untamed playground, from the historic streets of Cody to the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park, long after the summer crowds have departed. 

Wyoming is known for its wide-open spaces and abundant wildlife, and fall is one of the best times to encounter them. Located just 52 miles from Yellowstone’s East Gate, Cody is the perfect base camp for experiencing the West’s wildest side this season. Marvel at herds of mighty bison roaming the plains. Watch amorous elk bugling and battling to win over prospective partners during mating season. Or catch sight of black bears fishing, foraging, and feasting in preparation for the long winter ahead—always from a safe distance, of course. 

Prime Fishing Season

Bears aren’t the only ones drawn to our bountiful rivers and streams this time of year. Fall is also prime fishing season—a time when intrepid anglers flock to the North and South Forks of the mighty Shoshone River for some of the most spectacular blue-ribbon fishing in North America. Secure a Wyoming fishing license and set out on a self-guided expedition at the Buffalo Bill Reservoir or Lake Creek. Or, link up with an expert guide (you’ll find plenty to choose from among Cody’s many local outfitters) to discover off-the-beaten-path places where the waters are practically teeming with brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. 

From late September through early October, the fall colors in Cody Yellowstone hit their peak. As the rugged Western landscape transforms into a dazzling panorama of red, orange, and yellow, the call of the open road—and Wyoming’s scenic byways—becomes all but irresistible. So grab your favorite road trip snacks and set out through golden valleys, alpine passes, and wildlife corridors of the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. Along the way, you can immerse yourself in 

tales of the true American West through GPS-based, self-guided audio tours told by the people who know this land best. 

Step even further into Cody Yellowstone’s frontier past at the award-winning Buffalo Bill Center of the West. The world-class Smithsonian affiliate institution is actually five museums rolled into one: the Buffalo Bill Museum, Whitney Western Art Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Draper Natural History Museum, and the Cody Firearms Museum. With so much to see, do, and explore, you’ll be glad to know your admission ticket is good for two full days of discovery.

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One of the best things about visiting Cody Yellowstone in the fall? The relative quiet of off-season travel means you can easily secure accommodations at iconic spots like The Irma. First opened in 1902, this Victorian-style hotel has played host to celebrities, business tycoons, and even visiting royalty. Tuck into cowboy-style grub in the dining room, enjoy a drink at the priceless cherry wood bar (a gift from Queen Victoria to Buffalo Bill), or spend the night in the legendary showman’s private suite, with extraordinary views of downtown Cody. 

Feeling the call of a fall frontier adventure? Embrace the best of the season in a place where the spirit of the American West is alive and well. Request a free vacation guide and start planning your visit today at CodyYellowstone.org or by calling 1-800-393-CODY.