Old Trail Town | Cody

Old Trail Town is a historical reconstruction of a frontier town located in Cody, Wyoming. It preserves and displays structures from the American West during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Visual Characteristics

The town consists of approximately 26 historic buildings, including cabins, saloons, and a general store, relocated from various sites in Wyoming and Montana. Structures are primarily constructed from rough-hewn logs and timber, with weathered wood exteriors. Roofs are typically made of wood shingles or corrugated metal. The overall aesthetic is that of a functional, unadorned frontier settlement.

Location & Access Logistics

Old Trail Town is situated at 1831 17th Street in Cody, Wyoming. It is approximately 2.5 miles southwest of the Cody city center. Access is via 17th Street, which is a paved road. Ample free parking is available on-site. Public transport options directly to the site are limited; the Cody Trolley Tours may offer stops or routes that pass nearby.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The town was founded by Bob Edgar in 1967. Its purpose is to preserve authentic frontier structures and provide a tangible representation of life in the American West during the period of westward expansion. Buildings were acquired and moved to the site, dating from the 1870s to the 1920s.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk through the historic buildings, including the saloon, general store, and various cabins. Demonstrations of frontier skills may be offered seasonally. The site allows for self-guided exploration of the preserved structures and their contents.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shaded areas are present within the buildings. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors are not permanently located within the town; visitors typically bring their own provisions or dine in Cody.

Best Time to Visit

The site is open seasonally, typically from May through September. Mid-morning to early afternoon offers the best natural light for viewing the structures. Weather is generally most favorable during the summer months (June-August).

Facts & Legends

One of the buildings at Old Trail Town is the original cabin of mountain man Jeremiah "Liver-Eating" Johnson, a figure whose life has been the subject of numerous books and films. The authenticity of some of the stories surrounding Johnson is debated by historians.

Nearby Landmarks

• Buffalo Bill Center of the West (0.8km Northeast)
• Cody Firearms Museum (0.8km Northeast)
• Cody Mural Project (1.2km Northeast)
• Heart Mountain Interpretive Center (12km Northwest)