Twin Creek Trail

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a United States government agency that is dedicated to protecting, preserving, and promoting 247 million acres of public lands. These designated federal lands are available for public usage and include almost 6,000 miles of trails. Twin Creek Trail is one of the many nature trails under the agency’s jurisdiction. Located near the town of Cody, Wyoming, this attractive trail offers a wide range of recreational opportunities. A few of these activities include wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, and horseback riding. The trailhead, which serves as a Shoshone River access point, features several safety features. As recently as 2022, the trail was outfitted with check steps and retaining walls. After you're done exploring the 122-mile Twin Creek Trail, check out Yellowstone National Park, less than 85 miles away. You won't want to miss the fumaroles, famous geysers, and hot springs in the country's first national park.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Shoshone River Trails

The Twin Creek Trailhead offers nearby access to several trails, including the Shoshone River Trails. This modest trail system, which winds through the Cody, Wyoming area, is a great place for birding and hiking. Length: 1.5 miles Intensity: Easy

Stagecoach Road Trail

Nestled within Yellowstone National Park, this historic trail was once used as a primary road for stagecoaches. Serving as a popular stagecoach highway from 1880 to 1915, Stagecoach Road Trail offers a tranquil, scenic route for hikers of all skill levels. Length: 1.8 miles Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

Because Twin Creek Trail traverses the South Fork of the Shoshone River, you won’t have to go very far to find water-based activities. The Shoshone River provides year-round fishing opportunities. This popular fly fishing destination is stocked with everything from lake trout and rainbow trout to mountain whitefish and brown trout. Boating activities include kayaking and whitewater rafting.

Climbing

If you’re planning to be in the area during the spring, fall, or winter, head over to the Absaroka Mountains for a day of ice climbing. Situated in the South Fork Shoshone area, this ice climbing haven features several frozen waterfalls that are perfect for climbing and exploring.

Wildlife Viewing

The area around Twin Creek Trail is home to a variety of animal species. During your visit, you may spot black bears, elk, mountain lions, deer, grizzly bears, and antelope. Located in Cody, Wyoming, the Alkali Lake Waterfowl Viewing Area allows you to view a wide range of bird species. Here, you may encounter American white pelicans, Wilson’s phalarope, and American avocets.

Picnicking

At the nearby Yellowstone National Park, you can choose from at least 50 designated picnicking areas. Available amenities include picnic tables, fire grates, and restroom facilities. Situated near Cody, Wyoming, Shoshone National Forest also offers several sizable picnicking spaces. The picnic sites include fire rings, picnic tables, cook grates, and restroom facilities.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Backed by beautiful mountain scenery, Ponderosa Campground offers a host of desirable amenities for RV camping. Some of these amenities include full hookups, free Wi-Fi access, pull-through sites, a playground, picnic tables, a dump station, and an on-site cappuccino bar. Buffalo Bluff RV Park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby recreational activities include hiking, rafting, rock climbing, and fishing. On-site amenities include full hookups, laundry facilities, Wi-Fi access, and a dog park.

Free Camping

There are several Bureau of Land Management free camping options near Twin Creek Trail. Cedar Mountain Dispersed and Cody BLM Dispersed are both big rig friendly. Neither site provides water services or electrical hookups.

RV Rentals Near Twin Creek Trail Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Twin Creek Trail BLM trip

There have been a plethora of grizzly bear sightings in and around the Twin Creek Trail Area. Visit the nearest visitor center for important bear safety tips. Purchase an EPA-approved bear pepper spray for added protection.
Twin Creek Trail boasts a pretty mild summertime climate. However, winters can be particularly cold. From November to April, temperatures can drop as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. If you will be visiting during those months, make sure to dress and pack accordingly.
Hunting is permitted near Twin Creek Trail. Familiarize yourself with the current public land access and land status laws before beginning any hunting activities.
The weather in this part of Wyoming tends to be unpredictable. If you plan on hiking, make sure you are properly equipped and prepared for any unforeseen changes. Also, be sure to check trail and weather conditions before beginning your journey.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Properly dispose of all trash and waste when visiting the Twin Creek Trail. You are free to take photographs of animals, plant life, and artifacts. However, try your best not to come in direct contact with any animal; dozens of tourists are injured each year by attempting to engage the wildlife. Also, don’t pick any plants. Please leave all artifacts in the condition and location that you initially find them in. Please practice the "Leave No Trace" guidelines while enjoying your visit.

Twin Creek Trail Location

If you are driving from Cody, Wyoming, begin on Yellowstone Avenue near 8th Street. Continue for about 1.2 miles. Next, make a left onto Wyoming State Highway 291. Continue down the highway until you see signs for the Twin Creek Trailhead. Latitude and Longitude: 44.3235499, -109.4009868 Ready to visit Twin Creek Trail? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.