Things To Do
in Powell

Powell, Wyoming, is a charming small town nestled in the scenic Big Horn Basin. Known for its rich Western heritage, Powell offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Absaroka Mountains and Bighorn River, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.

With a warm community spirit, visitors can enjoy local events, historic sites, and a taste of authentic cowboy culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Powell
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at The Blue Sky Cafe, enjoying their famous pancakes. Afterward, visit the Powell Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Shoshone National Forest for a scenic hike along the trails, taking in the breathtaking views of the mountains and wildlife.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at The Local, known for its farm-to-table dishes, followed by a stroll through the historic downtown area to capture the charming architecture.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at The Coffee Shop before venturing to the nearby Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area for some kayaking or fishing.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the many scenic spots in the canyon. Explore the area further with a guided horseback riding tour.

evening
:

Return to Powell for dinner at El Rancho, where you can savor authentic Mexican cuisine, followed by relaxation at a local pub for drinks and live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🏨Hotel Night$100-$150
🚗Gasoline (per gallon)$3-$4
🎟️Attraction Entry Fee$5-$15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities available year-round.
  • Friendly, small-town atmosphere with a rich cultural heritage.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger urban areas.
  • Seasonal weather can be extreme, limiting activities in winter.
  • Lack of public transportation options may require a car.

Places to Visit in Powell

Visit one of these nice places.

Bighorn Canyon

Stunning views of the canyon and the river make for breathtaking landscape photos.

Powell Museum

Capture the essence of local history and culture in the museum's exhibits.

Downtown Powell

Historic buildings and charming storefronts provide picturesque settings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Powell

Powell offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its Western roots and local produce. From hearty breakfasts to sumptuous dinners, there’s something for everyone.

Powell Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bison Burger

A locally sourced bison burger served with homemade fries.

Must-Try!

Wyoming Trout

Freshly caught trout prepared with regional herbs and spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Powell Farmers Market

A seasonal market featuring local produce, handmade goods, and delicious street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Powell experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 90°F (32°C), while winter temperatures can drop below 20°F (-6°C). Spring and fall are mild, providing comfortable weather for outdoor activities. Precipitation is relatively low, with most rain occurring in late spring and early summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A friendly smile and greeting are customary; locals appreciate politeness.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued, especially for social and business meetings.

Respect for Nature

Always leave no trace when enjoying the outdoors; it's a cultural norm.

Safety Guide

Safety

Powell is generally safe, with a low crime rate. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring remote areas. Always follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities and inform someone of your plans when hiking or fishing in isolated areas.

Tipping in Powell

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Standard tipping is 15-20% for restaurant service.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit/debit cards, but it's good to have cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flowers; ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures perfect for hiking, fishing, and festivals.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage; great for photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy; perfect for winter sports like skiing and snowshoeing.

Nightlife Guide

Powell at Night

Powell's nightlife is relaxed yet vibrant, with a mix of local bars, live music venues, and community events. You can find a cozy pub with craft beers or enjoy live performances at various venues. The town hosts seasonal events that often include food and music, creating a friendly atmosphere for socializing.

Hiking in Powell

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Heart Mountain Trail

A moderately challenging trail that offers stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Bighorn Canyon Rim Trail

A scenic trail along the canyon rim with breathtaking perspectives of the Bighorn River.

Airports

How to reach Powell by plane.

Cody Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD)

Located about 30 miles from Powell, this airport offers flights to major hubs and serves as the nearest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Powell is quite walkable, particularly in the downtown area where shops, restaurants, and attractions are closely situated. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the town's small size makes it easy to navigate on foot. However, for more remote attractions and outdoor activities, a vehicle is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Western Heritage Enthusiasts

Many locals and visitors are drawn to the town for its cowboy culture and outdoor lifestyle.

Outdoor Adventurers

The area's natural beauty attracts hikers, fishermen, and nature lovers from all over.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rodeo

A significant part of local culture, rodeos are popular events during the summer months.

Fishing

With numerous rivers and lakes, fishing is a favored pastime for locals and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Powell is minimal, with the town experiencing little congestion. Public transportation options are limited, so personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation. Major highways provide easy access to surrounding areas and attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Powell.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options upon request.

Gluten-Free Options

Several cafes have gluten-free menus available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Powell is provided by Powell Valley Healthcare, which includes a hospital and urgent care services. For specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities like Cody or Billings, Montana. It's good to have health insurance and to know the location of medical facilities in case of an emergency.

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