Free Absaroka Range Travel Guide & Mobile App

Explore Absaroka Range with free travel guides. Discover regional history, expert tips, proposed trips, and audio guides on web or mobile app.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Absaroka Range
Absaroka Range photo 2
Absaroka Range photo 3
All photos

Explore Wyoming’s Absaroka Range through volcanic peaks, wilderness trails, scenic passes, wildlife and Cody’s western heritage gateway.

The Wyoming portion of the Absaroka Range forms a rugged mountain barrier east of Yellowstone National Park, extending through the north-western part of the state around Cody and the upper valleys of the North and South Forks of the Shoshone River. Its dark, sharply eroded peaks are the remains of an immense volcanic landscape created tens of millions of years ago. Unlike the pale granite of the nearby Wind River Range, Absaroka rock is often brown, black and rust-coloured, with pinnacles, cliffs and broad scree slopes giving the range a distinctive appearance.
Read more about Absaroka Range
The mountains are closely associated with Cody, the principal Wyoming gateway. From the town, US Highways 14, 16 and 20 climb westwards through the Wapiti Valley towards Yellowstone by way of Sylvan Pass, while the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway approaches the high country from the north. These routes reveal a varied landscape of sagebrush foothills, lodgepole pine forests, alpine meadows, glacial valleys and high summits. The scenery changes rapidly with elevation, and roads can remain affected by snow well into the warmer months.
Much of the range lies within the Shoshone National Forest, America’s first national forest, and several federally protected wilderness areas preserve remote terrain with limited road access. The northern Absarokas merge into the larger Absaroka-Beartooth mountain system, while the southern Wyoming section contains the North Absaroka and Washakie wilderness landscapes. Wildlife includes elk, mule deer, moose, bighorn sheep, black bears and, in suitable remote habitat, grizzly bears; sightings are never guaranteed and require careful food storage and distance from animals.
The Absarokas are not a conventional resort destination. Their appeal lies in long scenic drives, demanding hiking, horse packing, fly-fishing, wildlife observation, backcountry camping and the quiet scale of protected mountain country. Cody adds museums, western history, galleries and practical services, creating a useful base before heading into the range. Visitors should think in terms of valleys, passes and access corridors rather than a compact sightseeing circuit: weather, road conditions and wilderness regulations can determine how much of this extensive landscape is reachable on a single trip.

Getting to and around Absaroka Range

How to get there

Cody is the principal Wyoming gateway to the Absaroka Range and has a regional airport, though flight availability is limited and connections may be seasonal or subject to change. Most visitors arrive by road from the east via US 14, 16 and 20, or from the south and west through routes serving Cody and Yellowstone. The road over Sylvan Pass connects Cody with the eastern side of Yellowstone when open, while the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway provides access towards the northern Absarokas before joining routes associated with the Beartooth region. Yellowstone’s airports and gateway communities are outside the Absaroka Range and should be treated as separate access points.

Transportation

A car is the most practical way to explore the Wyoming Absarokas because trailheads, scenic viewpoints, forest roads and communities are widely dispersed, and public transport within the mountains is limited. US 14, 16 and 20 is the principal route between Cody and Yellowstone, while the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway serves the north-eastern approach. Highways may close temporarily because of snow, rockfall, construction or seasonal conditions. Hiking, backpacking and horseback travel are the main ways to continue beyond developed roads; bicycles are possible on selected roads but require preparation for long climbs, traffic and changing weather.

Top city travel guides in Absaroka Range

The cities of Absaroka Range, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Destinations in Absaroka Range

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Best attractions in Absaroka Range

The Wyoming Absaroka Range is primarily an outdoor destination, with attractions spread along mountain highways, national forest roads and wilderness approaches rather than concentrated in a single resort. The drive west from Cody through the Wapiti Valley towards Yellowstone reveals volcanic cliffs, forested slopes and the high crossing of Sylvan Pass; the route is a journey through the landscape rather than merely a means of transport. North of Cody, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway offers another mountain corridor towards the northern Absarokas. Hiking ranges from accessible forest and valley walks to demanding backpacking routes in the North Absaroka and Washakie wilderness areas. Anglers find rivers and mountain streams, while wildlife watchers may encounter elk, moose, bighorn sheep and black bears. Cody’s museums, galleries and western cultural institutions provide a substantial indoor counterpoint, interpreting exploration, ranching, firearms, Indigenous history and the American West. Visitors should distinguish the range’s developed viewpoints and trailheads from its roadless interior, where travel requires navigation, preparation and self-reliance.

Show more attractions

Best landmarks in Absaroka Range

The Absaroka Range’s most recognisable landmarks are its volcanic peaks, passes and river-cut valleys. The Wapiti Valley west of Cody forms a broad approach to the mountains, enclosed by heavily eroded volcanic cliffs and wooded slopes. Sylvan Pass is a significant high crossing on the route between Cody and Yellowstone, with alpine terrain and weather that can change quickly. North of Cody, the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway climbs through dramatic Absaroka scenery towards the high country near the Wyoming–Montana boundary, although parts of the associated Beartooth landscape lie outside Wyoming. The range’s wilderness areas are landmarks in a geographical rather than architectural sense: the North Absaroka and Washakie landscapes preserve extensive roadless mountain terrain. Cody’s Buffalo Bill Center of the West is an important cultural landmark at the range’s eastern gateway, linking the mountains with the town’s western history, but the centre is in Cody rather than in the remote high country itself.

Show more landmarks

Explore Absaroka Range on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Absaroka Range

Dining is concentrated in Cody and in a small number of communities and visitor facilities on the approaches to Yellowstone, rather than distributed throughout the high mountains. Cody offers steakhouses, cafés, bakeries, casual restaurants and bars reflecting the town’s role as a western gateway, with beef, burgers, trout and hearty breakfasts common on menus. The wider Wyoming tradition also appears in ranch-style cooking, chilli, locally sourced game where legally and responsibly obtained, and regional craft beer. Roadside and seasonal establishments near scenic corridors may provide simple meals, but services become sparse quickly beyond town. Farmers’ markets and independent food shops, when operating seasonally, are useful for picnic supplies before heading towards forest roads or trailheads. In the backcountry, visitors should expect to carry food rather than rely on mountain restaurants, and all provisions must be stored in ways that prevent attracting wildlife.

Show more restaurants

Best bars in Absaroka Range

Evening life in the Wyoming Absarokas is centred on Cody, where traditional bars, saloons, restaurants, breweries and occasional live-music venues serve residents, ranch visitors and travellers passing towards Yellowstone. The town’s western identity is reflected in historic-style interiors and local cultural programming, but it is not a major nightclub destination. In smaller communities and along the mountain approaches, evenings are generally quiet, with dining, lodging-house common rooms and outdoor stargazing replacing a formal entertainment district. After dark in the national forest and wilderness, the priorities are warmth, safe camp routines and awareness of wildlife rather than nightlife. Check current arrangements locally, as seasonal businesses and performances can change, and never drive mountain roads after drinking.

Show more bars

Best nightclubs in Absaroka Range

Evening life in the Wyoming Absarokas is centred on Cody, where traditional bars, saloons, restaurants, breweries and occasional live-music venues serve residents, ranch visitors and travellers passing towards Yellowstone. The town’s western identity is reflected in historic-style interiors and local cultural programming, but it is not a major nightclub destination. In smaller communities and along the mountain approaches, evenings are generally quiet, with dining, lodging-house common rooms and outdoor stargazing replacing a formal entertainment district. After dark in the national forest and wilderness, the priorities are warmth, safe camp routines and awareness of wildlife rather than nightlife. Check current arrangements locally, as seasonal businesses and performances can change, and never drive mountain roads after drinking.

Show more nightclubs

Best shops in Absaroka Range

Cody is the principal shopping centre for the Wyoming Absaroka Range, with independent western-wear shops, art galleries, bookshops, outdoor outfitters and retailers selling maps, camping supplies and practical clothing. Visitors will find locally themed artwork, photography, leather goods, jewellery, pottery and other crafts, although quality and provenance vary and should be considered before purchase. Western hats, boots and ranch-style clothing are prominent souvenirs, while food shops and seasonal markets can supply picnic provisions for mountain journeys. Shopping opportunities become very limited along the scenic roads and inside national forest country, so fuel, medicines, specialist equipment and substantial food should be obtained in Cody or another established gateway before departure. Souvenirs should not include archaeological objects, protected natural materials or anything collected from public land; responsible purchasing supports local makers without removing part of the mountain landscape.

Show more shops

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Absaroka Range, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from attractions and restaurants to essentials and local phrases, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Absaroka Range essentials

Currency and Payment
The currency is the United States dollar (USD), as throughout Wyoming and the United States. Cards and contactless payments are commonly accepted in Cody, at larger visitor facilities and at established accommodation and dining businesses, but remote forest areas have no reliable payment facilities or mobile signal. Carry cash for smaller rural businesses, occasional permits or services, and keep a reserve of fuel and supplies before entering the mountains. American tipping customs generally apply in restaurants, cafés, taxis and other service settings.
Safety
Mountain weather, remoteness and wildlife are the principal practical concerns. Snow, lightning, heavy rain, rockfall and sudden temperature drops can affect high routes and trails even in summer. Hikers should carry navigation equipment, extra layers, water and an emergency plan, and should not rely on mobile coverage. Keep well away from elk, moose, bears and other wildlife, never approach animals for photographs, and follow current food-storage requirements. Drivers should fuel before leaving Cody, watch for wildlife and allow additional time on winding mountain roads.
Emergency Situations
Dial 911 for police, fire or ambulance emergencies in Wyoming and explain your location as precisely as possible, including a highway, trailhead, marked trail, forest road or recognised landmark. Search and rescue assistance may involve county authorities, sheriff’s offices, federal land managers and specialist mountain teams, but help can take time in remote wilderness. In a life-threatening backcountry situation, use an emergency beacon or satellite communicator if available and remain with the injured person where it is safe to do so. Check in with someone before setting out and leave a route plan.
Do's and Don'ts
Do follow Leave No Trace principles, stay on designated routes where required, secure food from wildlife and respect wilderness rules, private ranch land and Indigenous cultural places. Do not feed animals, collect natural or archaeological objects, camp beside water without checking local restrictions, or assume that a dirt road is suitable for every vehicle. Give horseback riders and pack animals plenty of space, observe fire regulations and keep noise low in remote areas. Tipping, queuing and courteous public behaviour follow wider United States customs rather than a separate regional code.
Local Tips
Plan around the mountain passes rather than relying on a direct cross-range route, since the same journey can take much longer in poor weather or after a temporary closure. Cody is the best place to obtain supplies, local road information and a fuller cultural introduction before entering the backcountry. Scenic routes are often more rewarding when driven early, when wildlife is active and viewpoints are quieter, but dawn and dusk also demand extra care on the road. Check whether a trail enters wilderness and whether camping, fishing or fire permits apply before departure.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHowdy[haʊdi]
GoodbyeSee ya[si jə]
YesYep[jɛp]
NoNah[nɑ]
Please/You're welcomeSure thing[ʃʊr θɪŋ]
Thank youThanks a lot[θæŋks ə lɑt]
Excuse me/SorryPardon me[ˈpɑrdən mi]
How are you?How ya doin'?[haʊ jə ˈduɪŋ]
Fine. And you?Good. You?[ɡʊd. jə?]
Do you speak English?Can ya talk English?[kæn jə tɔk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
I don't understandI ain't gettin' it[aɪ eɪnt ˈɡɛtɪn ɪt]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?[kæn aɪ si ðə ˈmɛnju]
I don't eat meatI ain't eatin' meat[aɪ eɪnt ˈitɪn mit]
Cheers!Cheers![ʧɪrz]
I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay up?[kæn aɪ peɪ ʌp]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Help![hɛlp]
Go away!Get lost![ɡɛt lɔst]
Call the Police!Call the cops![kɔl ðə kɑps]
Call a doctor!Get a doc![ɡɛt ə dɑk]
I'm lostI’m lost[aɪm lɔst]
I'm illI ain't feelin' well[aɪ eɪnt ˈfilɪn wɛl]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...[aɪ ˈwɑnə baɪ]
I'm just lookingJust browsin'[dʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪn]
How much is it?What’s it gonna cost?[wʌts ɪt ˈɡʌnə kɔst]
That's too expensiveThat’s way too pricey[ðæts weɪ tu ˈpraɪsi]
Can you lower the price?Can ya knock the price down?[kæn jə nɑk ðə praɪs daʊn]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?What time ya got?[wʌt taɪm jə ɡɑt]
It's one o'clockIt's one[ɪts wʌn]
Half past (10)Half past ten[hæf pæst tɛn]
MorningMornin'[ˈmɔrnɪn]
AfternoonAfternoon[ˌæftərˈnun]
EveningEvenin'[ˈivnɪn]
YesterdayYesterday[ˈjɛstərdeɪ]
TodayToday[təˈdeɪ]
TomorrowTomorrow[təˈmɔroʊ]
1One[wʌn]
2Two[tu]
3Three[θri]
4Four[fɔr]
5Five[faɪv]
6Six[sɪks]
7Seven[ˈsɛvən]
8Eight[eɪt]
9Nine[naɪn]
10Ten[tɛn]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Where’s a...?[wɛrz ə]
What's the address?What’s the address?[wʌts ði əˈdrɛs]
Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?[kæn jə ʃoʊ mi ɑn ðə mæp]
When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?[wɛnʌs ðə nɛkst bʌs]
A ticket (to ....)One ticket to...[wʌn ˈtɪkɪt tu]

History of Absaroka Range

Volcanic Origins and Glacial Shaping

The Absaroka Range is largely composed of volcanic rocks produced by a vast Eocene volcanic field roughly 50 million years ago. Subsequent uplift, erosion and repeated glaciation sculpted the range into its present combination of rugged summits, steep valleys and broad mountain basins. The unusual dark and reddish rock distinguishes the Absarokas from Wyoming’s granitic ranges. Glacial landforms remain visible in high valleys and cirques, while rivers draining the mountains continue to cut through the volcanic plateau and foothills.

Apsáalooke and Other Indigenous Homelands

The range lies within a landscape long used by Indigenous peoples, including the Apsáalooke, whose name is commonly rendered in English as Crow. Shoshone, Bannock and other Native peoples also travelled through the wider Yellowstone and north-west Wyoming region for hunting, gathering, trade and seasonal movement. The name Absaroka derives from a historical rendering associated with the Crow. Indigenous history is not confined to the period before American settlement: Native communities and cultural traditions remain part of the wider region’s living history.

Yellowstone and Federal Protection

The creation of Yellowstone National Park in 1872 transformed the political and cultural treatment of the surrounding mountains, although the boundaries of the park do not encompass the whole Absaroka Range. Later federal forest reservations and national forests placed substantial parts of the Wyoming Absarokas under public management. The Shoshone National Forest, established in 1891 as part of the national forest system, became especially important in protecting watersheds, forests, wildlife habitat and access to the mountain country east of Yellowstone.

Exploration and the Hayden Survey Era

Government expeditions and scientific surveys in the nineteenth century brought increased outside attention to the Yellowstone region and its surrounding ranges. The 1871 Hayden Survey helped document the landscapes, geology and geothermal features of the area and strengthened support for national protection. Surveyors, military parties, trappers and later tourists used routes through mountain valleys and passes, but the Absarokas remained difficult terrain. Their remoteness shaped the later emphasis on forest management, recreation and wilderness preservation rather than dense settlement.

Cody and the Western Gateway

Cody was founded in the late nineteenth century by William F. Cody, better known as Buffalo Bill, and other investors. The town developed east of the Absarokas as a ranching, supply and tourism centre, linked to the mountain routes leading towards Yellowstone. Buffalo Bill’s public image helped establish the area as a destination associated with the American West, while ranching, irrigation and outdoor work shaped the surrounding valleys. Today Cody’s museums and cultural institutions interpret this history, though its stories must be read alongside Indigenous and environmental perspectives.

Scenic Roads, Recreation and Wilderness

During the twentieth century, improved roads made the Absaroka passes and valleys more accessible to motorists travelling between Cody, Yellowstone and northern Wyoming. At the same time, wilderness designations protected extensive roadless country, including parts of the North Absaroka and Washakie wilderness areas. This produced the region’s modern character: a combination of scenic highways, working forest landscapes, developed trailheads and vast areas where travel is possible only on foot or horseback. Recreation, wildlife conservation and water protection now sit alongside longstanding ranching and local economic interests.

Absaroka Range in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

0 / 0

Neighbouring regions of Absaroka Range

The closest regions to Absaroka Range, if you have time for more than one.

Explore more

Wyoming
More of the region

Explore more of Wyoming

Discover Wyoming: A Land of Unspoiled Beauty, Rich History, and Boundless Outdoor Adventures in the Heart of the American West.

Explore Wyoming
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Absaroka Range

Discover Absaroka Range with Evendo – Your 100% free guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more for a memorable adventure.

  • Comprehensive guides to attractions, landmarks, and restaurants
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, and local tips
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Explore the magnificent Absaroka Range in Wyoming with Evendo, your all-in-one travel guide app. Discover hidden gems, book experiences, and navigate like a local.

  • History and travel essentials for Absaroka Range
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near me' feature
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Nestled in the heart of Wyoming, the Absaroka Range offers breathtaking vistas, outdoor adventures, and a rich tapestry of natural beauty. With Evendo, your journey through this stunning landscape is seamlessly curated to ensure you don't miss a thing. Whether you're drawn to the majestic peaks of Francs Peak or the serene waters of Brooks Lake, Evendo provides comprehensive guides, detailed maps, and insightful tips to enhance your visit.

Explore the rustic charm of nearby towns and indulge in local cuisine at renowned spots like the Cowboy Café. From hiking trails that lead to mesmerizing views to historical landmarks that narrate the region's past, Evendo is your go-to resource for planning every step of your adventure. Dive into the vibrant local culture with curated experiences and activities that let you live like a local.

With Evendo, booking hotels, tours, and activities is a breeze. Say goodbye to the hassle of planning logistics and hello to an adventure filled with discovery and excitement. Download Evendo today and transform your journey to Absaroka Range into an unforgettable experience. Start your adventure now!

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.