One Of The Most Underappreciated Scenic Drives In America Is Right Here In Wyoming

Wyoming is home to unsurpassed natural beauty, and while there are some jaw-dropping landscapes that can only be seen via strenuous hiking trails, there are others that simply require a vehicle - as well as a camera and a killer driving playlist. There are countless incredible scenic drives across the beautiful state of Wyoming, but they are not all created equal. The Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway is an underrated trek that is one of the best scenic drives in Wyoming, and maybe even the entire United States!

The Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway begins 25 miles west of Cody at the border of the Shoshone National Forest and is full of postcard-worthy views you can appreciate without ever needing to step foot out of your car (though you’ll definitely want to make a few stops).

Following the North Fork of the Shoshone River through the Wapiti Valley and into the east entrance of Yellowstone National Park, this highway measures in at a mere 27 miles.

At only 45 minutes of drive time, this is the perfect destination for a leisurely weekend drive.

Known as US-14, 16, and 20 at different points along the way, the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway was designated in 1991 as a National Forest Scenic Byway, and as a Wyoming State Scenic Byway.

Along your journey, you will discover astonishing rock formations, recreational opportunities, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking vistas.

Points of interest along the scenic byway include Buffalo Bill Dam, Mummy Cave, Colter’s Hell, and Pahaska Tepee, all of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

You will also drive by the Wapiti Ranger Station, a National Historic Landmark, as well as various historic dude ranches that catered to the Yellowstone tourist trade. You will also find one of the world's most fascinating homes along the way, the Smith Mansion.

Make a weekend getaway of it and spend a few days exploring Yellowstone National Park.

Note, however, that while the scenic byway is open to traffic year-round, the east entrance of Yellowstone typically closes the first Monday of November.

The road travels through country that Theodore Roosevelt once called "the most scenic 50 miles in the world," and we definitely agree with him. This part of the country is drop dead gorgeous!

Have you ever driven along the stunning Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway?  What about these 12 beautiful byways? Share your favorite scenic drives near Cody, Wyoming or the rest of the state with us in the comments! If you decide to take your drive further, don't forget to use our extremely helpful ultimate road trip packing list!