5 epic day trips from cody, wyoming (for the whole family)

So you’re planning a family vacation to Cody, Wyoming (great choice!) With its rich western history, stunning landscapes, and easy access to the Bighorn Mountains, Cody is the perfect home base for exploring some of Wyoming’s best-kept secrets. If you’re looking for unforgettable adventures that are all doable in a day, we’ve got you covered.

Here are five awesome day trips that are fun, scenic, and full of adventure—especially if you’re traveling with kids!

1. Rent a Can-Am UTV in the Bighorn Mountains at Wyoming High Country Lodge

Ready to really get off the beaten path? Just over an hour from Cody, you’ll find Wyoming High Country Lodge, tucked high in the Bighorn Mountains near Lovell, Wyoming. From here, you can rent a Can-Am UTV and hit the trails for a family adventure. no previous experience necessary!

You’ll cruise past wildflower-filled meadows, stop for pics at some of wyoming’s most stunning waterfalls, and maybe even spot a moose or two. Make sure to visit the historic Medicine Wheel (thought to be thousands of years old, a sacred Native American site with jaw-dropping 360° views of the Bighorn mountains and Bighorn Basin. Kids will love the ride, and parents will love the scenery (and the peace and quiet). Please be respectful, as native americans still use the medicine wheel as a place of prayer.

Pro tip: The trails around Wyoming High Country Lodge are beginner-friendly but feel like you’re deep in the wild.

discover epic views with a can-am rental at Wyoming High Country Lodge in the Bighorn mountains Near cody, wyoming.

2. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Want to see bighorn sheep in the wild? Maybe a herd of wild horses galloping across the wyoming desert? Bighorn Canyon, just north of Lovell, delivers both, including towering canyon walls, dramatic desert landscapes, and plenty of pull-off spots for family photos.

The Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range is especially cool if you’ve got animal-loving kids. Pack a picnic, bring your binoculars, and enjoy the raw beauty of one of Wyoming’s most underrated gems.

Photo: Steven Cordes via unsplash.

3. Dinosaur Tracks Near Shell, Wyoming

If your kids are in the dinosaur phase (or let’s be honest, you’re just a curious grown-up), make the short drive to Shell, Wyoming to visit the Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracksite. This open-access site has real dino footprints preserved in stone. And yes, it’s totally okay to walk among them!

It’s one of the few places in North America where you can see so many tracks in one place, and it’s surprisingly fun for all ages. There are educational signs, great photo ops, and even a chance to play paleontologist for a day. soak in the stunning desert views of the bighorn basin and the bighorn mountains. lookout for antelope and mule deer!

4. Explore the Wyoming Badlands Near Lovell

Wyoming has its own version of the Badlands, and they’re just as wild as the ones in South Dakota. Located outside Lovell, these rugged red rock formations look like something out of a movie. You can hike, take photos, or just drive through and admire the alien-like landscape. Discover the epic views of the bighorn mountains, absoroka mountains, and beartooth mountains! this is a great idea to stretch out the legs and let the kiddos explore the sand-like hills. we recommend darnell hills ohv area just outside lovell, wyoming.

It’s a great add-on to your UTV rental day or a peaceful drive if you want something low-key after a more active day.

discover desert landscapes near lovell, wyoming.

5. Soak in Thermopolis

After a few dusty trails and dino footprints, reward the whole crew with a trip to Thermopolis, about 90 minutes from Cody. It’s home to Hot Springs State Park, where you can soak in natural mineral pools, spot bison grazing, and even ride the Swinging Bridge over the Bighorn River.

There’s also a dinosaur museum, a water slide at Star Plunge (a local favorite), and plenty of quirky shops and places to grab ice cream. It’s a perfect wind-down day with options for both relaxing and playing.

Bonus Tip: Pack Snacks. Lots of Snacks.

Wyoming roads are scenic, but sometimes a little long between stops. Throw some granola bars, water, and maybe a cooler in the backseat—you’ll thank us later!

Ready to Explore?

Cody is more than just rodeos and cowboys (though we love those too). With epic mountains, prehistoric surprises, and relaxing hot springs all nearby, it’s the ultimate hub for family-friendly adventure.

If you’re ready to go full Wyoming on your trip, start by booking a Can-Am UTV rental at Wyoming High Country Lodge and let the trails guide you to places your car just can’t reach.