16 epic outdoor activities in Wyoming that everyone can do

Are you ready to trade your skis for a harness and helmet? When the snow melts at Sleeping Giant Ski Area in Cody, Wyoming, the mountain transforms into a warm-weather adventure seeker's playground with the state's largest zipline trail. Imagine soaring through the air with the breathtaking backdrop of Yellowstone National Park and the Big Horn Basin below you. If you're looking for an adrenaline rush and a unique way to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, this amazing zipline adventure is for you!

For many, Sleeping Giant Ski Area is a winter wonderland known for its family-friendly slopes and proximity to Yellowstone National Park. But in the off-season, this ski resort transforms into a thrilling zipline park, offering a completely different way to experience the Wyoming wilderness.

Wyoming is known for staying true to its wild and rugged roots, which means there are few developed zip lines in this area. Luckily, Sleeping Giant knows how to seamlessly combine nature and adrenaline! Located just 50 miles from Yellowstone's east entrance, Sleeping Giant is one of the oldest ski resorts in Wyoming, with a history dating back to 1936. Its durability speaks to its charm, but the zip line? It's a new way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Absaroka Range and the surrounding wilderness, especially in the summer and fall months when the landscape is colored in shades of green, orange and gold.

The Sleeping Giant Zipline isn't for the faint of heart – or maybe it is, because although it's fast and high, it's also an incredibly gentle and scenic ride. The course consists of five different ziplines, each offering a new perspective on the surrounding landscape. Some are shorter and designed to ease you into the experience, while others are designed for pure speed. The longest route stretches 3,520 feet (more than half a mile) and takes you across the Shoshone River. However, if you want to take it a little easier, you can also decide to tackle just one of the lines.

As you ride, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Absaroka Mountains, the river below, and forests that seem to stretch on forever. If you're lucky, you might even spot distant wildlife in the trees below – this is Wyoming, after all, where elk, deer and even bear occasionally wander through.

The zipline is designed for the adventurous, but it all starts with a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the ski hill, where you can take in the panoramic views before stepping off the platform and hurtling through the air. You're safely strapped in, but once you're out there it's just you, the line and the wind!

When you reach the fourth zip line – aptly named “The Grand Finale” – you'll travel over the river and through the trees at speeds of up to 45 mph. The combination of speed, altitude and the beauty of the landscape makes this one of the most exciting zipline experiences in the region.

The best thing about the zip line at Sleeping Giant is that it is suitable for all ages and experience levels. You don't have to be a ziplining pro to participate, and it's perfect for families looking for a unique outdoor activity. Children ages 8 and up can participate, making it an ideal way to introduce younger adventurers to the thrill of ziplining. However, please note that there are size and weight restrictions for safety reasons. And don’t worry – the guides will be there to help you from start to finish.

While most people think of ziplining as a summer activity, Sleeping Giant's zip line actually runs well into early fall, and there's something magical about flying through the fall air just as the leaves start to change color.

Then if you want to spend a whole day or a whole weekend doing it, the Sleeping Giant Zipline is just part of the adventure. Cody, a short 30-minute drive away, offers tons of things to do, from exploring legendary landmarks like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West to the Dug Up Gun Museum, Old Trail Town, Buffalo Bill Dam, and more. Plus, you're right on the doorstep of Yellowstone National Park, so you can easily combine a day of ziplining with exploring one of America's most famous natural wonders.

Before you head to the Sleeping Giant, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, this epic zip line is only open during the summer and fall months, usually from mid-June to early October. You should check specific dates in advance and make a reservation to secure your spot. The cost varies depending on the season and the number of zip lines you want to ride.

Sleeping Giant Zipline offers an experience that is part adrenaline rush, part scenic tour, and completely unforgettable. It's the kind of activity that will show you the wild beauty of Wyoming from a whole new perspective – and leave you grinning from ear to ear the entire time. Whether you're soaring over the Shoshone River or catching a glimpse of the Absaroka Mountains in the distance, one thing is certain: this is an adventure you won't forget!

If you need a place to stay, there are some great options in the heart of Cody and equally cool campgrounds. Be sure to treat yourself to something to eat after your high-altitude adventure! You can't go wrong with any of these legendary Wyoming restaurants.