Navigating "Noctourism" in Cody Yellowstone

As the least populated state in the Lower 48 and with few large cities generating light pollution, Wyoming has some of the clearest and darkest skies in the country, particularly in the northwestern Wyoming destination of Cody Yellowstone. With just 30,000 residents spread over 7,000 square miles, solitude-seeking visitors can find plenty of places for nocturnal adventures. 

The word “noctourism” may not be in the dictionary yet, but the travel industry is quickly learning that a quiet region with dark skies suitable for stargazing and a good night’s sleep can be a major — even deciding — factor in choosing a destination. 

What exactly is noctourism? According to trendwatchers, it is the practice of looking for experiences after the sun sets. Some people build their vacations around observing and photographing the Aurora Borealis (the Northern Lights), while others just want to gaze at the stars. Some people simply want to avoid crowds or the heat of the day. Other night owls go scuba diving in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, while some seek out nighttime safaris in Africa.

Here are some of the best places in Cody Yellowstone for enjoying dark nights and starry skies:

UXU Ranch

Beloved for its mountain views and epic trail rides, UXU Ranch is a one-time sawmill that became a dude ranch in 1929. Owner Bob Rumsey built a lodge and tent cabins and continued to mill lumber on the site. Eventually, the ranch built permanent cabins — many of which are still in operation today. 

Bill Cody Ranch

Marking its 100th anniversary this year, Bill Cody Ranch was once owned by the grandson of Buffalo Bill. The ranch is located between the town of Cody and the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park. Guests can see rock formations from every angle, providing an otherworldly contrast to starry skies.

Wood River Valley Ski Touring Park

In winter at the Wood River Valley Ski Touring Park, cross-country skiers head to a remote cabin where the only sound is the occasional breeze blowing through the trees. In summer, hikers make their way to the cabin.

K3 Guest Ranch and Bed & Breakfast

Haven’t you always wanted to sleep in a sheepherder’s wagon? You have choices such as a chuckwagon bed inside the main lodge or two freestanding sheepherder wagons. The ranch’s lawn features unobstructed sky views. K3 is just 10 minutes from downtown Cody.

Pahaska Tepee

Check out Pahaska Tepee, Buffalo Bill Cody’s original hunting lodge, where he entertained his friends, including the Prince of Monaco and President Theodore Roosevelt. While there, stay in A-frame accommodations and make a beeline to Yellowstone National Park through the nearby East Gate.

Cody Trout Ranch Camp – RV & Tipi Park

Located on the banks of the Shoshone River, Cody Trout Ranch Camp – RV & Tipi Park features tipis and RV sites with hookups for overnight stays. 

Pure Heart Retreat

Offering a blend of luxury and tranquility, Pure Heart Retreat offers geodesic domes measuring 23 feet in diameter, as well as access to a glass yoga dome. The retreat in the tiny town of Wapiti, between Cody and the East Gate of Yellowstone National Park, is designed to create a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway

The 27.5-mile Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway is part of what travelers and locals call the “Road to Yellowstone,” a 52-mile route between downtown Cody and the park’s East Gate. Even if you do not stay at one of the many dude or guest ranches along the way, you will see some serious mountain vistas and fascinating rock formations.

Chief Joseph Scenic Byway

Chief Joseph Scenic Byway cuts through the Sunlight Basin between the Northeast Gate and Cody and features multiple guest ranches. It is the best spot in the region to see the Aurora Borealis. Along the way, be sure to stop at Dead Indian Lookout, offering dark and unobstructed views of the stars as well as the rugged Wyoming landscape.

The Stars are Aligning for Your Trip to Cody Yellowstone

Come to Cody Yellowstone to experience noctourism for yourself. Request your free 2025 Vacation Guide and start planning your getaway today (or tonight!).