Why the East Gate of Yellowstone Should Be Part of Every Yellowstone Vacation
Yellowstone National Park is a bucket-list destination for travelers worldwide, but the experience you have depends greatly on where you enter the park. While many visitors flock to the bustling West and North Gates, seasoned adventurers and families seeking something special know that the East Gate offers an experience that’s as tranquil as it is unforgettable.
With its authentic Western charm, unmatched scenic beauty, rich history, and easy access to the historic town of Cody, Wyoming, the East Yellowstone Valley promises a Yellowstone vacation like no other.
A Quieter Yellowstone Experience
Since the West and North Gates are popular with tourists, they can often get congested with traffic jams and overcrowded boardwalks. The East Gate, however, is quite the opposite. Here, you’ll find wide-open spaces, slower-paced exploration, and a deeper connection to the park’s unspoiled beauty.
How you get to the East Gate is really what sets it apart. The road winds through the Shoshone National Forest, America’s first national forest, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks, sparkling rivers, and abundant wildlife. Each turn shows off a view that could be on a postcard, making the drive the perfect way to kick off your Yellowstone adventure.
East Entrance Road Beauty
“The 50 most beautiful miles in America.” – President Teddy Roosevelt
When President Teddy Roosevelt described the route from Cody, Wyoming, to Yellowstone’s East Gate as “the 50 most beautiful miles in America,” he was speaking about the remarkable stretch of highway that winds through East Yellowstone or Wapiti Valley. This route begins at Yellowstone National Park’s East Gate and passes through the scenic Shoshone National Forest, Buffalo Bill State Park, and the Shoshone River Valley before reaching Cody.
The Absaroka Mountains loom dramatically on either side, their rugged volcanic rock formations telling the story of the area’s fiery origins. The Shoshone River, which is responsible for carving this unbelievable valley, follows you for much of the journey, its clear waters mirroring the peaks and pine forests as you go. Wildlife is everywhere here, you might catch a glimpse of bighorn sheep, elk, or even a grizzly bear. Every mile of the drive gives you a fresh view, making the trip to the East Gate feel like an adventure in itself.
Dive Into History: East Yellowstone’s Western Legacy
The East Yellowstone Valley isn’t just beautiful, it’s also steeped in history. In 1896, Bill Cody established the town of Cody with the intention of being the gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Buffalo Bill himself recognized the area’s potential as a tourism hub, and his influence can still be felt today in the valley’s authentic Western atmosphere.
This strong link to the Old West makes East Yellowstone special, giving visitors a chance to experience history in a way that feels real and personal.
Shoshone National Forest
Established in 1891, it was the first national forest in the U.S. Spanning over 2 million acres of varied land, it’s been a top destination for western adventurers for years.
Buffalo Bill Cody’s Vision
Buffalo Bill didn’t just found the town of Cody—he also built the Pahaska Tepee Lodge near Yellowstone’s East Gate in 1904 to accommodate early visitors. His vision paid off as it is still a top spot for both hunters and sightseers.
Wapiti Ranger Station
In 1903, this station became the first of its kind to be financed by the federal government. Still today, it is a symbol of the conservation efforts that have preserved this region’s natural beauty for generations.
The Cody Nite Rodeo
Since it was founded in the 1930s, Cody’s earned its title as the “Rodeo Capital of the World.” With nightly rodeos, visitors get a real taste of cowboy life and true Western tradition.
East Yellowstone Valley Meets Old West
The East Yellowstone Valley is more than just a gateway—it’s a destination in its own right. Staying here allows you to experience the history and culture of the Old West while still enjoying great accommodations. Whether you’re into a quaint cabin, a guest ranch, or an all-inclusive Western escape, the valley has something for everyone.
Each of these options gives you a chance to wake up to the sound of birdsong, breathe in crisp mountain air, and enjoy activities like fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching right from your doorstep.
Relax in your comfy cabin for an all-inclusive Western vacation. Enjoy Western dining, horseback rides, pack trips & hunting trips all in the beautiful Shoshone National Forest.
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Located halfway between Cody, Wy and the East Gate of Yellowstone. Come stay in clean, cozy cabins, horseback riding, fishing, hiking out the back door, evening campfires and beautiful Mountain Views. Horse boarding also available.
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Enjoy a unique rock formation from the historic lodge or from 15 log cabins in the surrounding forest. Located 11.7 miles from Yellowstone or 40 miles from Cody, WY.
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Explore the area dubbed “the most scenic 50 miles in the U.S.” by Teddy Roosevelt during three or six-night stays at Blackwater Creek Ranch. Enjoy breathtaking views of Yellowstone Country and the Shoshone National Forest!
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Established in 1922 as a mid-way stop between Cody and Yellowstone, Trail Shop Inn & Restaurant offers fine dining and lodging in a beautiful Western atmosphere.
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Only 26 miles from Cody or Yellowstone, you’ll find the best in wilderness horseback adventures, Western family vacations, log cabin living, homecooked meals, chuckwagon BBQs & campfire cookouts.
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You'll be welcomed to Absaroka Mountain Lodge with real Western hospitality when your family enters a historic Wyoming lodge that was built in 1910.
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Take a trail ride, fish, hike or tour Yellowstone from a modern lodge with excellent dining, a convenience store and a charming gift shop with distinctive Yellowstone souvenirs.
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Stay at a family-owned guest lodge on the babbling Goff Creek in the heart of the Wyoming Rockies. Only 9 miles from Yellowstone or 40 miles from Cody.
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UXU Ranch offers the ultimate western hospitality experience only 17 miles from the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy horseback riding, guided fly fishing, and more!
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Wapiti Lodge perches above the Shoshone River in the heart of Wapiti Valley. An ideal base between Cody and Yellowstone for cultural, historic, & scenic pursuits in the area.
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Cody, Wyoming: A Must-See on Your East Yellowstone Journey
No trip to the East Yellowstone Valley is complete without a visit to Cody, Wyoming, a town that proudly wears its Western heritage on its sleeve. Founded by the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody, the town is a celebration of the frontier spirit and offers experiences you won’t find elsewhere.
Must-Do Activities in Cody:
- Buffalo Bill Center of the West: This world-class museum complex features five museums in one, including exhibits on Plains Indian culture, Western art, and Yellowstone’s natural history.
- Cody Nite Rodeo: Often referred to the "Rodeo Capital of the World," Cody puts on nightly rodeos all summer long, giving you an exciting peek into cowboy culture.
- Historic Downtown Cody: Explore charming shops, Western boutiques, and historic sites that transport you back to the days of the Wild West.
Why the East Gate is the Smart Choice
Choosing the East Gate over the West or North Entrances isn’t just about avoiding crowds—it’s about embracing the essence of what makes Yellowstone and the surrounding area so special. Here’s why it’s the smarter choice:
Authenticity
While the West Gate is surrounded by busy tourist spots, the East Gate gives you a look at the true American West.
History
From the Buffalo Bill legacy in Cody to the historic ranches of the East Yellowstone Valley, the area is steeped in rich Western heritage.
Scenic Beauty
The trip to the East Gate is an adventure on its own, with stunning natural views around every corner.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
With fewer crowds and plenty of chances for hands-on fun, East Yellowstone is perfect for families looking to spend quality time together.