Every true Wyomingite has lived a life that's a lot different than most Americans. Out here in the high prairie and Rocky Mountains, life is unique. Here are a few things that may have happened to you that were stranger than fiction.
This isn't nearly as common as it used to be, but it's still something that happens in Wyoming. If you tried to ride a horse into town in New Jersey, I'm pretty sure you'd get pulled over!
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5. Traveled to a place where people lock their doors.
I actually never had a key to my first apartment and didn't really think twice about it. It's hard to get into the habit of locking your doors when you've moved to a place where you have to!
6. Assumed out-of-state restaurants would have elk or bison on the menu.
Ready to swap your skis for a harness and helmet? When the snow melts at Sleeping Giant Ski Area in Cody, Wyoming, the mountain morphs into a playground for warm weather thrill-seekers, featuring the state’s largest zipline course. Imagine zipping through the air with the stunning backdrop of Yellowstone National Park and the Big Horn Basin below you. If you’re craving an adrenaline rush and a unique way to soak in the breathtaking scenery, this fantastic zipline adventure is calling your name!
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For many, Sleeping Giant Ski Area is a winter wonderland known for its family-friendly slopes and proximity to Yellowstone National Park. But in the off-season, this ski area transforms into a thrilling zipline park, offering a totally different way to experience Wyoming’s wilderness.
Wyoming is known for staying true to its wild and rugged roots, which means developed ziplines around these parts are few and far between. Fortunately, Sleeping Giant knows how to seamlessly blend nature and adrenaline! Located just 50 miles from Yellowstone’s East Entrance, Sleeping Giant is one of the oldest ski areas in Wyoming, dating all the way back to 1936. Its longevity speaks to its charm, but the zipline? It’s a fresh way to take in the stunning views of the Absaroka Range and the surrounding wilderness, especially in the summer and fall months when the landscape is painted in greens, oranges, and golds.
Teenage boy enjoying high ropes course in adventure park. The boy is wearing safety harness and a helmet. The boy is zip lining from one platform to another. Spectacular view of Austrian Alps mountains in the background. Sunny summer day. Canon R5
The Sleeping Giant Zipline is not for the faint of heart – or maybe it is, because even though it’s fast and high, it’s also an incredibly smooth and scenic ride. The course consists of five different ziplines, each one offering a new perspective of the surrounding landscape. Some are shorter and designed to ease you into the experience, while others are built for pure speed, with the longest stretching 3,520 feet (more than half a mile) and launching you over the Shoshone River. Although, for those looking to ease into it, you can also choose to tackle just one of the lines.
Throughout the ride, you’ll get to take in sweeping views of the Absaroka Mountains, the river below, and forests that seem to stretch forever. If you're lucky, you might even spot distant wildlife in the trees below – this is Wyoming, after all, where elk, deer, and even bears occasionally wander by.
The zipline is built for thrill-seekers, but it all starts with a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the ski hill where you can take in the panoramic views before stepping off the platform and whizzing through the air. You’ll be securely harnessed in, but once you’re out there, it’s just you, the line, and the wind!
This shot shows two distant zipline riders descending through the trees in a pine forest on a mountaintop.
By the time you hit the fourth zipline – aptly named “The Grand Finale” – you’ll be cruising at speeds up to 45 miles per hour over the river and through the trees. The combination of speed, height, and the beauty of the landscape makes this one of the most exhilarating zipline experiences in the region.
One of the best things about the zipline at Sleeping Giant is that it’s built for all ages and experience levels. You don’t have to be a ziplining pro to take part, and it’s perfect for families looking for a unique outdoor activity. Kids as young as 8 years old can participate, making it an ideal way to introduce younger adventurers to the thrill of ziplining. But do note that there are height and weight restrictions for safety. And don't worry – guides will be by your side from start to finish.
While most people think of ziplining as a summer activity, Sleeping Giant’s zipline runs even into early fall, and there’s something magical about flying through the autumn air just as the leaves are starting to change color.
Then, if you’re looking to make a full day or weekend of it, the Sleeping Giant Zipline is just one part of the adventure. Cody, a short 30-minute drive away, is packed with things to do, from exploring legendary stops, like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, to the Dug Up Gun Museum, Old Trail Town, Buffalo Bill Dam, and so much more. Plus, you’re right on the doorstep of Yellowstone National Park, so you can easily combine a day of ziplining with some time exploring one of America’s most iconic natural wonders.
Buffalo Bills Irma Hotel & Restaurant in Sheridan Avenue at dusk, Cody, Wyoming, USA
Before you head out to Sleeping Giant, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, this epic zipline is only open during the summer and fall months, typically from mid-June through early October. You’ll want to check ahead for specific dates and make a reservation to secure your spot. Cost varies by season and how many of the ziplines you plan to cruise on.
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Sleeping Giant Zipline offers an experience that’s part adrenaline rush, part scenic tour, and entirely unforgettable. It’s the kind of activity that’ll make you see Wyoming’s wild beauty from a whole new perspective – and have you grinning from ear to ear the whole way down. Whether you’re soaring over the Shoshone River or catching glimpses of the Absaroka Mountains in the distance, one thing’s for sure: This is an adventure you won’t forget!
If you need a place to stay, there are some awesome options in the heart of Cody and equally cool campgrounds. Be sure to grab some grub after your sky-high adventure! You can't go wrong with any of these iconic Wyoming restaurants.
While you may be familiar with Wyoming for its National Parks such as Yellowstone and Grand Teton, and the town of Jackson Hole as a winter playground, there's plenty more to seek out within the state. There is no shortcoming of unique things to do in Wyoming that the guidebooks often keep to themselves. Check out a few underrated spots in the Cowboy State that deserve to be on your bucket list.
This ancient petroglyph site is one of the coolest spots in the state. It takes some planning (and a 4x4 vehicle) to get there, but it certainly deserves a spot on your Wyoming bucket list. Read more about Castle Gardens and what makes it a Wyoming hidden gem.
2. Visit The Smallest, Coldest, Snowiest Town Around
Bondurant is the coldest town in Wyoming, and you'll love the tiny town charm no matter the weather. Take a trip to visit this little slice of paradise and you'll understand what Wyoming truly is.
A respectful visit to the Bighorn Medicine Wheel needs to be on every Wyomingite's bucket list. This sacred Native American worship site is significant to many of the area tribes to this day. Learn more about Bighorn Medicine Wheel and why it is such a meaningful and unique place in Wyoming.
When it comes to gorgeous mountain drives, it's hard to beat Wyoming. Take the 46-mile Chief Joseph Scenic Byway to see some of the best views from the heart of Wyoming. Be sure to read the full story of the beautiful Chief Joseph Scenic Byway.
Spend a few days out on the Oregon Trail on your very own Wagon Train. Relive Wyoming's past on these day trips, overnight treks, or multi-day excursions with Historic Trails West.
When you're out of places to visit, make it a point to track down the creepiest ghost towns and abandoned, haunted spots around. This road trip of Wyoming ghost towns takes you to some cool, creepy spots.
The historic Carissa Mine is open for tours! Visit South Pass City to see what life was like in an 1800s-era mining town. Keep reading to find out how to tour the historic Carissa Mine.
The most spectacular lakeside campground in the world is tucked into Grand Teton National Park. You'll want to get up early to get in line for a spot, as it fills up by 8 am and sites are first come, first serve. Read on to learn why camping at Jenny Lake is one of the best things to do in Wyoming.
Many people initially write off the Old West Cookout at Roosevelt Lodge as cheesy and hokey, but once you actually attend, you'll see why so many people return year after year! This old west style cookout is served up in the lands that made Teddy Roosevelt fall in love with Wyoming and the Yellowstone area. The live entertainment and hearty meals make this a memorable experience.
Have you experienced any of these unique things to do in Wyoming? What's your favorite underrated Wyoming adventure? Be sure to let us know in the comment section. We would love to hear from you!
If you're looking to hop in your car and make a road trip out of these Wyoming hidden gems or other stunning destinations, be sure to use our ultimate packing list to make your trip a breeze!
