Wapiti in Park County, Wyoming — The American West (Mountains)
Protection Proves Profitable
This valley has sustained life for thousands of years. Early Native Americans were drawn here to hunt buffalo, elk, deer, moose, sheep and bear. It has always been considered a unique place.
The establishment of the nation’s first park and timber reserve in the late 1800’s spurred angry protests among local settlers. They were outraged that vast tracts of land were no longer available for personal gain.
Soon residents realized the profits to be made from tourism. A new road through the valley brought more people into the region. While in many other parts of the west resources were being spent for profit, these protected resources would prove profitable for local citizens.
Lodges along the byway date back to this early era in our nation’s history. The highway, Buffalo Bill Days and the town of Cody were born from this visionary planning over a century ago. Relish this country, its legends and heroes where a window of the “wild west” remains for future generations.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Environment • Industry & Commerce • Native Americans • Settlements & Settlers.
Location. 44° 27.632′ N, 109° 31.562′ W. Marker is in Wapiti, Wyoming, in Park County . Marker is on U.S. 20, on the right when traveling west. Marker is located at the eastern entrance of Shoshone National Forest. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Wapiti WY 82450, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 6 other markers are within 4 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies. Is This Forest Healthy? (here, next to this marker); Shoshone National Forest (here, next to this marker); A Burning Need (a few steps from this marker); Touch the Past (approx. 2.9 miles away); Solving the Prehistoric Puzzle (approx. 2.9 miles away); Absaroka Volcanic Field (approx. 3.2 miles away).
Credits. This page was last revised on June 16, 2016. It was originally submitted on September 25, 2015, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 264 times since then and 7 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on September 25, 2015, by Bill Coughlin of Woodland Park, New Jersey.