Protection Proves Profitable
Approximately 5 miles west of Wapiti

This valley has sustained life for thousands of years. Early Native Americans were drawn here to hunt buffalo, elk, deer, moose sheep and bear. It has always been considered a unique place. The establishment of the nation’s first park and timber reserve in the late 1800’s spurred angry protests among local settlers. They were outraged that vast tracts of land were no longer available for personal gains. Soon residents realized the profits to made from tourism. A new road through the valley brought more people into the region. While in many other parts of the west resources were being spent for profit, these protected resources would prove profitable for local citizens. Lodges along the byway date back to this early era in our nation’s history. The highway, Buffalo Bill Dam and the town of Cody were born from this visionary planning over a century ago. Relish this country, its legends and heros where a window of the “Wild West” remains for future generations.