Outdoor Adventures Await: Things to Do Outdoors Near Cody, Wyoming

Cody, Wyoming, stands as a gateway not just to Yellowstone but to a bold wilderness that demands attention. Here, the natural world is both playground and challenge — a place where rivers dare you to match their pace and rugged trails invite you to test your limits. For those searching for things to do outdoors near Cody, Wyoming, the choices weave through forests thick with ponderosas, across volcanic flats, and beside waters that hold ancient stories.

The Shoshone River snakes through the valley, pushing forward with a whisper that compels anglers and kayakers alike. Hiking trails such as the Crandall Creek Trail offer a moderate trek—around 6.5 miles out and back—with about 800 feet of steady elevation gain. Walking beneath towering evergreens, the air crisp and filled with pine scent, you’ll find yourself immersed in a land fiercely itself. Timing your outing for early morning can reward you with the golden light filtering softly through the branches, while afternoons bring an energized shift as wind picks up, reminding you of nature’s pulse.

For cyclists, the Medicine Wheel Passage sprawls with smooth pavement and steep climbs, perfect for adrenaline seekers eager to conquer diverse terrain. The landscape demands respect—sudden weather shifts and rocky sections remind you the wilderness isn’t just scenery but a living, breathing force.

Rock climbing enthusiasts will find routes near Cody that challenge technical skills and offer sweeping views of the Absaroka Range. Wildlife watchers should keep alert for mule deer, elk, and the occasional fearless bighorn sheep that call these hills home.

Preparation is key: sturdy footwear, layered clothing, and adequate water are essentials, whether you’re heading out for a casual sunset walk or a full-day backcountry adventure. Early summer to early fall generally offer the best weather, but spring’s fresh blooms and winter’s silent snow-covered expanses create their own compelling landscapes.

This overview only scratches the surface of things to do outdoors near Cody, Wyoming. On our web page below, you’ll discover a curated list of the best adventures in Cody—trails, rivers, and natural wonders ready for your exploration. Your next outdoor thrill waits here, just at the edge of town and beyond the horizon.