CODY, Wyo., November 24, 2024 –Winter in Cody Yellowstone is a magical time when rodeo is replaced by ice climbing, hiking trails turn into skiing and snowshoeing venues and cars are replaced by snowmobiles on park roads. 

The changes also mean an influx of people seeking romantic adventures. 

“Winter and romance go together like a hand in a glove or mitten,” said Ryan Hauck, executive director of Cody Yellowstone, the marketing arm for the region that includes the towns of Cody, Powell and Meeteetse, a large swath of the Shoshone National Forest and about half of Yellowstone National Park. “Think of a leisurely trek on skis or snowshoes followed by a cocktail next to a roaring fire. And if you want something even more active, we have a ton of options here in Cody Yellowstone.” 

Here are some ideas for a romantic getaway for just the two of you: 

1. Book a room in town. The Cody Hotel offers suites with a jetted jacuzzi tub and fireplace. You're responsible for a bottle of sparkling wine. In the heart of downtown, the charming and historic Chamberlin Inn features artfully decorated one-of-a-kind rooms, including one that hosted author Ernest Hemingway. Wind down with a cocktail in the cozy atrium. 

2. Book a dome out of town. Pure Heart Retreat offers accommodations in geodesic domes measuring 23 feet in diameter as well access to a glass yoga dome. The retreat is designed to create a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

3. Book – and ski to – a backcountry cabin. The South Park Cabin is a ski- or hike- in cabin that can be accessed from the Wood River Valley Ski Touring Park. Only $50 per night, the cabin features four bunk beds and is equipped with basic pots and pans and utensils, a cooking stove, propane canisters, coffee pot, firewood, sleeping pads and an outdoor bathroom. 

4. Climb a waterfall. With its porous volcanic soil and abundant drainages, Cody Yellowstone has some of the best ice climbing in the country. The Wyoming Ice Festival is held in January and offers clinics for all abilities. 

5. Strap on some snowshoes. If you can walk, you can snowshoe. With literally thousands of miles of trails in the region, it won't take long to have a trail to yourselves. 

6. Strap on some cross country skis. Ski the classic tracks and skate lanes along the Shoshone River at Pahaska Tepee near the East Gate to Yellowstone National Park or the groomed trails of the remote Wood River Valley Ski Touring Park. 

7. Tour the park on a snowmobile. People in Cody, Powell and Meeteetse refer to Yellowstone National Park as “The Park.” If you've never been there in winter, a trip there is like visiting a completely new destination. Steam from thermal features, ice-covered Lower Falls at the Frand Canyon (don't try climbing that particular waterfall) and the wildlife watching combine for a magical winter experience. Contact Gary Fales Outfitting for a guided tour. 

8. Outfit your home with Western furniture. Just as functional as they are artistic, items at By Western Hands Museum and Gallery have been created by local artisans. Cody has a long history of providing the country – and the world, for that matter – with distinct furniture made of local materials such as juniper, pine, leather and antlers. 

9. Shop for art, Western attire and more. Cody Yellowstone is home to numerous art galleries, museum stores and shops with an array of Western-themed gift items. Pick up a pair of classic cowboy boots at the Irma Hotel gift shop or Wayne's Boots. Or choose locally made artwork on display at the Cody Country Art League. 

10. Stroll along the Cody Yellowstone Sippin' Trail. The new Sippin' Trail is a great way for visitors to experience some of the town's most popular restaurants and bars. The trail includes breweries, restaurants and unique venues such as a cigar lounge and a historic hotel built by town founder Buffalo Bill Cody. Visitors who download the free app and make a purchase at the participating businesses can earn points for rewards like Sippin Trail T-shirts, pint glasses and stickers.