Heart Mountain Interpretive Center | Cody

The Heart Mountain Interpretive Center is a museum located near Cody, Wyoming, dedicated to the history of the Heart Mountain Relocation Center, a World War II Japanese American internment camp.

Visual Characteristics

The interpretive center is a modern, single-story building constructed primarily of concrete and steel, with large glass windows. Its exterior is a neutral gray, designed to blend with the surrounding arid landscape. The interior features exhibits with informational panels, photographs, and artifacts. The site itself is an open, windswept plain with the prominent, heart-shaped Heart Mountain visible to the north.

Location & Access Logistics

The center is situated approximately 16 miles northwest of Cody, Wyoming. Access is via U.S. Route 14/16/20 West. Turn north onto Heart Mountain Road (County Road 19). The facility has a dedicated parking lot. No public transportation services the site directly.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The Heart Mountain Relocation Center was established by the War Relocation Authority in 1942 and operated until 1945. It housed over 10,000 Japanese Americans. The geological origin of Heart Mountain is a massive landslide that occurred millions of years ago, forming the distinctive shape.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the daily lives, challenges, and resilience of internees. Walking tours of the former camp grounds are available, identifying foundations of barracks and other structures. The site offers interpretive signage throughout the grounds.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the interpretive center. Limited shade is provided by the building's structure and some outdoor interpretive panels. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally weak to non-existent at the site. No food vendors are present; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the mountain is late afternoon when the sun casts shadows that define its contours. The months of June through September offer the most favorable weather conditions, with daytime temperatures typically ranging from 60-80°F (15-27°C). Wind can be a factor year-round.

Facts & Legends

A unique aspect of the Heart Mountain Relocation Center was the establishment of a significant Japanese American community, including schools, businesses, and even a baseball league, demonstrating a strong will to maintain cultural and social structures under duress. A specific tip for visitors is to wear sturdy footwear for exploring the grounds, as the terrain can be uneven.

Nearby Landmarks

• Buffalo Bill Center of the West (16km South)
• Old Trail Town (14km South)
• Cody Reservoir (25km Southwest)
• Shoshone National Forest (Access points vary, approximately 30km West)