Which route is the most interesting between Buffalo and Cody?

Hi there,

We're leaving at the end of June and will be driving the route between Buffalo and Cody. We’ve already booked our accommodations and a rodeo in Cody, but during the day, we’ll be driving between the two and I’m unsure about the itinerary. Which route do you think is the most pleasant, interesting, or scenic between: - The northern route via Highway 14 with Sheridan, Lowell, etc. - The southern route with Highways 16/20/14, passing by Loaf Mountain Overlook, Powder River Pass, Ten Sleep Canyon...

We’ll be in a car, so we should be able to drive on any road. Thanks for your input!

Laura

Hi Laura,

We did this route BUT in the opposite direction... and in an RV, if that helps, it's HERE:

https://blogs.crespel.me/usa2012/2012/08/24/

See you!

Hi Laura, In 2019, after spending the night at the Devils Tower campground and exploring it, we hit the road to Cody—over 5 hours of driving... So we took the shortcut through the south: 16-20-14. The route was pretty monotonous except for one mountainous stretch. Since you only have 3 to 3.5 hours of driving, I’d recommend taking the northern route (14/alt-14). The scenery will be prettier, and you can stop by Bighorn Canyon (see PapJ59’s post).

Hi Laura, "Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway" – https://yellowstone-lodging.com/recreation/buffalo-bill-cody-scenic-byway/ For more details. Have a great trip

Hi there, I passed through Cody back in 2013. A couple of things: In Cody, there’s a café at IRMA, Buffalo Bill’s aunt, and at the end of the day, they put on an outdoor show that plays on classic Western themes... maybe a bit touristy, but really fun. Second thing: for the rodeo, I’d strongly recommend sitting opposite the entrance. That way, you’ll be right above where the riders prepare (sit near the lower railing). Horses and more—keep that in mind to make the most of it! Have a great day

Hello, I passed through Cody in 2013. Two little things: There’s a café in Cody called IRMA, Buffalo Bill’s aunt. And at the end of the day, outside, there’s a show that plays on Western themes—maybe a bit touristy, but really fun. Second thing: for the rodeo, I highly recommend sitting opposite the entrance. You’ll be right above where the riders prepare (sit near the lower railing). Horses and more—keep that in mind to make the most of it. Have a great day!

And the Irma Café is packed! 😄 95% tourists!

At the end of the street where the (paid seated) show is, there’s a big store that’s super Cowboy-themed. Worth checking out!!

I agree with you about the tourists—I was one of them, but oh well, childhood memories, an atmosphere, sounds, images... no regrets!

There’s a café in Cody called IRMA, Buffalo Bill’s aunt

Irma wasn’t Buffalo Bill’s aunt but his daughter! :)

Right, my mistake! !

I agree with Beajourbrez about Bighorn Canyon (though it does seem like a bit of a detour). I can confirm that I found the route from the south pretty monotonous.

Hi,

Do you recommend booking the Cody rodeo? We’ll be there in August—it’ll obviously be crowded, but I didn’t think it was necessary.

Hi Laurie, In August 2019, we hadn’t booked ahead—we arrived pretty early. I remember the stands were far from full. Don’t forget to go to the stand opposite the entrance to see the facilities. Have a good evening

Hi,

and thanks for the feedback and advice on the location. 🙂

Hi Laurie, In August 2019 we hadn’t booked ahead—we arrived pretty early. I remember the stands were far from full. Don’t forget to go to the stand opposite the entrance to see the facilities. Have a good evening

Same in August 2022.[;]