Discover Shoshone River Trail - Stair Access in Cody, WY
Adventure Destination

Discover Shoshone River Trail - Stair Access in Cody, WY

Explore Shoshone River Trail in Cody, WY. This serene spot offers scenic hikes with river views. Families and seasoned hikers will enjoy wildlife observation. Best visited in spring and fall, this trail is not wheelchair accessible.

Hiking7.4/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Located near Cody, Wyoming, the Shoshone River Trail - Stair Access provides an inviting gateway to some of the region’s most striking natural scenery. This trail is distinguished by its easy-to-navigate stairway entrance, allowing visitors direct access to the Shoshone River pathway, a route framed by rugged rock formations and the river’s gentle flow. The trail stretches alongside the Shoshone River, weaving through contrasting landscapes of rocky outcrops and vibrant riparian zones, offering an authentic outdoor experience that's unique to this part of Wyoming.

Key features include steep limestone cliffs and the clear waters of the Shoshone River, which have slowly carved the valley over thousands of years. Along the way, hikers may spot native flora such as cottonwoods and wild sagebrush, and wildlife including deer and various bird species. The stair access point is especially appreciated for making the steep descent manageable, encouraging visitors of various skill levels to enjoy this scenic route.

Historically, the river corridor served as a vital resource for indigenous peoples long before the settlement era, adding depth to the trail’s appeal. Proximity to Cody, with its rich western heritage, enhances the experience, linking nature with culture.

Overall, the Shoshone River Trail - Stair Access stands out in the region for combining ease of entry with rewarding river views and geological interest, making it a must-visit for anyone curious about Wyoming’s wild landscapes.


Editorial Assessment

A great spot for hiking with beautiful river views, though not among the world's most iconic natural destinations.

Discover Shoshone River Trail - Stair Access in Cody, WY

Adventure Guide to Discover Shoshone River Trail - Stair Access in Cody, WY

1

1. Shoshone River Trail Hike

  • What makes it special: This trail includes well-maintained stair access, leading down to a peaceful river pathway. It features scenic river views, canyon walls, and access to wildlife viewing.
  • Key features: Stairway entrance, riverside walking paths, pockets of shade from riparian vegetation.
  • Local insight: The trail runs close to Cody’s western cultural sites, blending nature with history.
  • Visitor tips:
  • Details: Best to visit from late spring to early fall when river levels are moderate.
  • Details: Bring sturdy walking shoes, water, and insect repellent.
  • Details: Parking is available near the trailhead; it’s roughly a 10-minute drive from downtown Cody.
2

2. Birdwatching along Shoshone River

  • What makes it special: Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting species like herons, kingfishers, and raptors often seen hunting over the water.
  • Key features: Quiet spots for viewing along the riverbank.
  • Local insight: Early mornings provide the best light and less disturbance from other visitors.
  • Visitor tips:
  • Details: Bring binoculars and a bird guidebook.
  • Details: Sunscreen and hats are recommended due to limited shade in some areas.
3

3. Fishing at Shoshone River

  • What makes it special: The Shoshone River supports trout fishing popular with locals and visitors alike.
  • Key features: Clear river pools accessible from the trail for casting lines.
  • Local insight: The river is stocked periodically, but local regulations help maintain fish populations.
  • Visitor tips:
  • Details: A Wyoming fishing license is required.
  • Details: Pack light fishing gear and check local fishing reports beforehand.
  • Details: Early spring and late summer are ideal for trout activity. --- **Getting There:** From Cody, head east on 19th Street for about 3 miles. The trailhead at Shoshone River Trail - Stair Access is well marked, with parking available at the base. Expect around a 10-minute scenic drive. **Safety Notes:** The stair descent can be steep; take care especially in wet conditions. Carry plenty of water, wear sun protection, and be aware of local wildlife. Cell phone service may be limited along the river corridor.

Reviews

V
Violet Dysart2 years ago

It's beautiful but hellish lol

J
jane makori2 years ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

S
Stephen Anderson2 years ago

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

D
Dexter Blethen4 years ago

Great place to park and walk down to the Shoshone river pathway.

Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

Pick Up on the Irma Hotel Porch: Cody Trolley’s 6"x4" Oval Sticker1.01 mi
Cody, Wyoming

Pick Up on the Irma Hotel Porch: Cody Trolley’s 6"x4" Oval Sticker

A concise guide to collecting your Cody Trolley Tours merchandise at the Irma Hotel ticket booth and what to know before you arrive.

1.01 miView Trips & Details →
Three Wheels and Wide Skies: Slingshot Rentals out of Red Lodge41.7 mi
Red Lodge, Montana

Three Wheels and Wide Skies: Slingshot Rentals out of Red Lodge

Rent a Polaris Slingshot for half- or full-day open-air drives through Montana’s scenic roads — this guide distills what to expect and who it’s for.

41.7 miView Trips & Details →
Pepi’s Workshop: Hands-On Kids Crafting Rooted in Montana’s Land and Western Traditions41.7 mi
Red Lodge, Montana

Pepi’s Workshop: Hands-On Kids Crafting Rooted in Montana’s Land and Western Traditions

A one-hour, family-friendly crafting session at Rock Creek Resort in Red Lodge where children make small take-home projects guided by instructors and inspired by Montana’s nature and western heritage.

41.7 miView Trips & Details →
Dawn Safaris into Yellowstone’s Northern Range: Wolf Calls, Bears and the Slow Business of Predation1.14 mi
Cody, Wyoming

Dawn Safaris into Yellowstone’s Northern Range: Wolf Calls, Bears and the Slow Business of Predation

A naturalist‑led, full‑day wildlife safari from Cody that chases early‑morning animal movement across Yellowstone’s valleys, rivers and forests—this guide explains what you’ll see, how the day flows, and what’s provided.

1.14 miView Trips & Details →
Ride the Beartooths: Guided Backcountry Snowmobiling out of Cody4.89 mi
Cody, Wyoming

Ride the Beartooths: Guided Backcountry Snowmobiling out of Cody

Guided backcountry snowmobile trips into the Beartooth Mountains, tailored to group ability and run under conditions-based safety decisions.

4.89 miView Trips & Details →
Run the Numbers: A Full‑Day Whitewater Gauntlet on the Arkansas River1.79 mi
Buena Vista, Colorado

Run the Numbers: A Full‑Day Whitewater Gauntlet on the Arkansas River

A full‑day, 5–6 hour rafting experience on Buena Vista’s Arkansas River—Class IV–V whitewater with a catered riverside lunch for ages 14 and up.

1.79 miView Trips & Details →