Experience the thrill of Wyoming’s rivers with River Runners of Wyoming, your go-to outfitter for rafting, kayaking, and hiking near Cody. This guide offers practical tips and vivid insights to help you navigate the adventure with confidence and excitement.
Adventure Tips
Hydration Is Key
Carry enough water for your trip; the river’s pull can dehydrate you faster than you expect, especially in summer heat.
Layer Smart for Weather Shifts
Cody’s weather can flip quickly; pack moisture-wicking layers and a waterproof shell to stay comfortable on the river and trails.
Wear River-Ready Footwear
Choose secure, quick-drying shoes with good traction to handle wet, uneven terrain safely.
Book Guided Trips Early
Popular seasons fill fast—reserve with River Runners well in advance to secure the best time slots and guides.
Plan Your Adventure in Cody, Wyoming: Don’t Miss River Runners of Wyoming for Outdoor Thrills
Cody, Wyoming, sits at the gateway to wild adventures that demand both respect and readiness. Among the town’s standout outdoor providers, River Runners of Wyoming commands attention—not just for the rush of water but for the variety of experiences it offers. If you’re planning a trip where the natural world calls you forward, this outfitter should be high on your list.
River Runners specializes in guided rafting and kayaking trips on the Shoshone River and nearby stretches of the Yellowstone River. These currents don’t just carry you; they dare you to engage with a river fiercely itself. Each rapid has its own character, from playful surges to sudden pulls, meaning your skill and focus aren’t just helpful—they’re necessary.
Planning a day with River Runners means gearing up for the blend of thrill and practical outdoor work. The trip distances vary from half-day excursions covering about 7 to 10 miles, to full-day adventures pushing closer to 15 miles. Elevation changes are subtle here, but the moving water adds its own challenge to balance and endurance. The riverbanks alternate between shaded forested areas and wide-open views, where trees lean in like old friends watching your progress.
One practical but essential tip is to prepare for sudden weather changes. Cody’s climate can shift rapidly, so dressing in layers and choosing water-resistant but breathable gear is critical. Proper footwear that secures well on slippery riverbeds, plus a reliable water bottle for hydration, keeps energy levels steady. Timing your trip around the warmer months—May through September—offers the most stable conditions and vibrant landscape.
Beyond rafting, River Runners also provides guided hiking tours along adjacent trails where the terrain mirrors the river’s edge: rocky yet approachable, steeped in sagebrush and pine. These hikes range from 4-8 miles with elevation gains of 500-1,000 feet, perfect for casual explorers and seasoned hikers wanting to test their limits.
The practical side of booking with River Runners includes safety briefings and equipment rentals. They supply wetsuits, helmets, and personal flotation devices, ensuring your adventure is as secure as it is exhilarating. Guides know the waterways intimately and introduce you to local ecology—from the aggressive chatter of river otters to the stealth of bald eagles soaring overhead.
In Cody, Wyoming, outdoor adventure is a dialogue between you and nature. River Runners of Wyoming makes sure you’re equipped to listen—whether the river’s whisper or its roar. Your next great outdoor story awaits here, flowing sharp and clear like the rapids themselves.
Nearby Trips
Adventures near Cody
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Frequently Asked Questions
What skill level is required for River Runners’ rafting trips?
Most rafting trips are designed for beginners to intermediate paddlers; guides provide comprehensive safety briefings and equipment, ensuring you’re prepared regardless of experience.
Are trips available year-round?
River Runners operates primarily from late spring through early fall when water levels and weather are safe; winter river activities are limited due to cold and ice.
What wildlife might I see during my trip?
Expect to spot bald eagles, river otters, deer, and sometimes black bears in surrounding forests. Keep a respectful distance and stay aware of your surroundings.
How strenuous are the hiking excursions offered?
Hikes range from easy walks to moderate 8-mile routes with up to 1,000 feet of elevation gain, suitable for most fit outdoor enthusiasts comfortable on uneven trails.
Is personal gear needed or provided?
River Runners supplies helmets, flotation devices, and wetsuits for rafting. Personal waterproof layers and footwear are recommended to bring for comfort and fit.
Can I take photos during the trips?
Yes, guides often encourage stopping for photos at scenic points but advise keeping safety the priority around moving water.
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Layered Clothing
Keeps you dry and comfortable through unexpected splashes and weather changes.
Secure, Quick-Drying Footwear
Ensures traction on wet rocks and riverbanks while allowing fast drying after water exposure.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Mandatory for safety during any rafting or kayaking trip, available for rent but recommended to bring if you own one.
Hydration Pack or Refillable Bottle
Maintains hydration levels by allowing easy access to water on the move.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- "The Shoshone Cascade viewpoints offer panoramic river views few visitors reach."
- "Small side streams near Cody Harbor spots shelter beaver lodges with active dams."
Wildlife
- "Beaver and otters frequent riverbanks at dawn and dusk."
- "Bald eagles nest in tall cottonwoods visible along the water."
History
"Cody is named after Buffalo Bill Cody, whose legacy shapes local culture through museums and historical tours enriching any outdoor visit."