Shoshone National Forest | Cody

Shoshone National Forest, located in northwestern Wyoming, is the first national forest established in the United States, created in 1891. Spanning over 2.4 million acres, it borders Yellowstone National Park and the Absaroka and Teton mountain ranges, offering a diverse and rugged wilderness experience. The forest is renowned for its dramatic peaks, glacial valleys, alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife, making it a prime destination for outdoor recreation, ecological study, and backcountry exploration.

Landscape and Scenery

The forest encompasses a wide variety of landscapes, from high alpine meadows and jagged mountain peaks to dense pine and fir forests. Notable features include the Absaroka Range, Wind River Range, and the scenic Shoshone River Valley. Visitors can explore glacially carved canyons, waterfalls, and pristine lakes such as Sylvan Lake and Heart Lake, which provide striking photo opportunities and serene natural settings.

Outdoor Recreation

Shoshone National Forest offers a vast array of recreational activities year-round. Hiking and backpacking dominate in the summer, with trails ranging from short interpretive walks to multi-day backcountry routes. Fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and camping are popular pursuits, while winter brings snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing opportunities. Several wilderness areas, including the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, provide remote, rugged terrain for advanced adventurers seeking solitude and pristine natural conditions.

Wildlife and Ecology

The forest supports diverse wildlife populations, including elk, moose, black and grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, wolves, and numerous bird species such as eagles and osprey. Wetlands, rivers, and meadows sustain rich plant life, including wildflowers, aspens, and subalpine conifers. The Shoshone serves as a crucial ecological corridor connecting Yellowstone and other protected areas, playing a vital role in regional biodiversity and conservation.

Visitor Facilities and Access

The forest is accessible through multiple entry points along U.S. highways and scenic byways. Visitor centers, campgrounds, and ranger stations provide maps, educational materials, and guidance for safe exploration. Interpretive programs and guided tours help visitors understand the forest’s natural and cultural history, including its use by Native American tribes and early settlers.

Atmosphere and Experience

Shoshone National Forest combines vast wilderness, dramatic mountain scenery, and abundant wildlife, creating a sense of awe and immersion in nature. The crisp mountain air, the sound of rushing rivers, and the quiet of high alpine meadows evoke both adventure and tranquility. Whether hiking a rugged trail, fishing in a secluded lake, or simply observing the panoramic vistas, visitors experience the timeless beauty and ecological richness of one of Wyoming’s most iconic landscapes.