Experience Noctourism in Cody Yellowstone, Wyoming

Wyoming offers some of the clearest and darkest skies in the United States, especially the region of Cody Yellowstone. With little light pollution, Cody Yellowstone is an ideal location for travelers to stargaze and experience celestial events.

Pure Heart Retreat © Cody Yellowstone

“Noctourism has been a sought-after adventure for more than a century, when dude ranch guests – most of whom traveled from Eastern cities – would gather around a campfire after a day of outdoor adventures,” said Ryan Hauck, executive director, Cody Yellowstone. “Today’s visitor can still gather around a campfire at a dude or guest ranch – or at one of the many other secluded places throughout the region – and experience not only night skies but also the sounds of true wilderness like rustling trees, softly running streams and the occasional howl of a coyote.”

UXU Main Lodge © Cody Yellowstone

Add these locations to your list for a dark skies experience during your stay:

• UXU Ranch: This all-inclusive dude ranch boasts breathtaking night sky views.
• Bill Cody Ranch: Nearby rock formations at the ranch enhance nighttime views.
• Wood River Valley Ski Touring Park: This remote park offers more than 15 miles of ski/snowshoe trails.
• K3 Guest Ranch and Bed & Breakfast: Stay in one of five standalone cabins and stargaze on the ranch lawn.
• Pahaska Tepee: Go back in time and visit Buffalo Bill Cody’s original hunting lodge.
• Cody Trout Ranch Camp – RV & Tipi Park: This RV and campsite is located on the picturesque Shoshone River.
• Pure Heart Retreat: Guests enjoy dome accommodations at this remote retreat for excellent stargazing opportunities.
• Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway: This 27.5-mile stretch of road between Cody and Yellowstone National Park’s east gate offers stunning vistas.
• Chief Joseph Scenic Byway: This 45.96-mile road to Yellowstone National Park boasts lookout stops with unobstructed views.