This small town in Wyoming is a fall wonderland for nature lovers

USA Today named Cody, Wyoming, one of the best places to visit in the fall, and I can see why. As I saw the mountainous backdrop exiting the airport, I knew I was in for a treat. I was definitely not in Tulsa anymore, where I currently reside.

Ryan Hauck, executive director of Cody Yellowstone, says, “The fall months of September and October have become one of the most popular times of the year to visit as travelers discover our rich array of outdoor adventures like fly fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching.”

“Fall is also grown-up time here,” shares Hauck. “With kids back in school, we see more couples, older family groups, and friend groups exploring the destination’s cultural attractions, lingering in the restaurants, and hitting the trails.”

For couples wanting a romantic retreat driving to see the aspen and willow trees turn gold and yellow or friends seeking an adventure-packed weekend hiking in the Shoshone National Forest or Yellowstone National Park, Cody is the perfect small town to base a fall getaway. You can expect sunny days and temperatures ranging from the mid-30s to the low-70s degrees Fahrenheit in September and October.

Take a scenic drive to go leaf peepin

There are incredible scenic byways to drive while visiting. I cruised along the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway one day and the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway another — both were mountainous and breathtaking.

On the second day of our trip, we headed east of town along the Buffalo Bill Cody Scenic Byway and listened to the free TravelStorysGPS tour — I appreciated learning more about the area's geology and history.

The road runs next to the North Fork of the Shoshone River, so you’ll see the willows changing colors for fall. The area is known for its dramatic rock formations. You can also see the turquoise water at the Buffalo Bill Reservoir and walk over the dam. My grandpa worked on the dam back in the day, and I felt a sense of pride as I walked across it.

Plan another full day to drive the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. It will take you into the surrounding area’s high alpine, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see the aspens glowing brilliantly. Keep a lookout for the famed Index and Pilot Peaks.

Go wildlife watching and hiking in Yellowstone

We spent one whole day driving over 250 miles, hiking, and exploring the geysers and waterfalls while seeing hundreds of bison roaming. You’ll surely get your steps in walking the boardwalks and trails to the popular viewing points. I was mesmerized by the blue and green colors of the steaming Norris Geyser Basin and the power of the Upper and Lower Falls.

If you’re like me, hoping to see predatory wildlife on a tour of Yellowstone, September through October are the best months to visit if you want to see grizzly bears from a safe distance along your drive.

Colter Jones, founder of CoveredGround Tours, says, “The top places to see a grizzly are along the East Entrance Road between the East Gate and Fishing Bridge as well as the Hayden Valley.”

While planning a trip, keep in mind that a large part of Yellowstone closes on November 1st, and it usually starts snowing around the end of October. Visit the National Park website for operating dates and current conditions.

Experience art and culture

With five Smithsonian Affiliate museums under the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, the town of Cody focuses on preserving its local heritage and wildlife.

My favorite museum was the Draper Natural History Museum. Strangely, thanks to taxidermy mounts, I saw how big grizzly bears in the wild are up close and now have a greater appreciation for the fact that I’ve never encountered one while hiking in the backcountry.

You can also get lost in time at one of the other four museums: the Buffalo Bill Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, or Whitney Western Art Museum.

Where to stay for your visit

Enjoy historic accommodations (or a cocktail if they are sold out) at the historic Chamberlin Inn, where famous adventurer and novelist Ernest Hemingway tucked himself away to write “Death in the Afternoon.” Or, if you’re craving a unique stay at a luxurious geodesic dome overlooking the Shoshone National Forest, check out Pureheart Yoga Retreat. If you’re a Holiday Inn type — where we stayed — you’ll love that the hotel is within walking distance of the town’s restaurants, bars, and shops.

Where to eat, from cowboy steaks to local favorites

Kick your day off with breakfast at Cody Coffee Roasters. I was thrilled to try their giant gluten-free crepes because I’m gluten-free. They have so many options – I’d probably eat here and get coffee often if I lived in Cody.

Grab lunch at Sitti's Table, a family-owned Lebanese restaurant serving Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food that has been featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” It was a catering favorite for Kanye West when he lived in the area, and you’ll see why after you eat here — everything is mouthwatering and delicious. I’d even go as far as to say they have the best coffee I’ve ever tasted — try the kafe hawaij latte.

For dinner, have some western fun at the Cody Cattle Company chuckwagon dinner and show. They serve up steaks and potatoes and play classic country and rock music. You’ll laugh, dance, and leave with a full belly. If you want to try elk steaks or pizza, check out Trailhead (they have gluten-free pizza, too). Pat’s Brew House is the place for a laid-back pub night — the locals love it here, and the staff is warm and friendly. It’s also the only female-owned brewery in Wyoming.