The Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyoming is offering a first-of-its-kind, action adventure in the American West with a six night, seven day tour, "Backcountry Expedition: Yellowstone," August 17-23. Participants experience the western way of life in Cody and in the backcountry of Yellowstone, the nation's first national park.

Tour Coordinator Sophie Broussard says, "The trip is specially designed for those who in addition to seeking adventure, want to learn about the region and its cultural and natural history." Upon arrival, guests stay overnight at Buffalo Bill's famous hotel, the Irma. Jim Garry, naturalist and folklorist, is the tour's professional guide. Dining and introductions on the first night prepare participants for submersion the following day at the world-class complex of five American western museums at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center.

Behind the scenes at the Historical Center, the tour explores themes such as the role of the firearm through civilization, the masters of the fine art of the West, the past stories and present day lives of Northern Plains Indians, and the life and times of the world's most famous man at the turn of the twentieth century, William Fredrick Cody. Finally, participants have a chance to explore the natural history museum within the Center for a precursory look at the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. A "behind the chutes" tour on the third day offers a glimpse into the life of rodeo before a stop at the only "nightly" rodeo in existence. Professional cowboys are on hand to answer questions and give demonstrations. For the second half of the tour, guests embark on a professionally guided backcountry pack trip in Yellowstone National Park.

Bob Lantis, renowned outfitter and backcountry guide, pairs guests with horses prior to entering the Lamar River Valley. A camp cook prepares meals and wranglers entertain with live music every evening. Guests are encouraged to indulge in the natural setting of camp life by reading, hiking, taking horseback rides, fishing, or simply relaxing. After three nights in the backcountry, guests stay overnight at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. Participants return to Cody through Yellowstone for a last chance to watch wildlife and witness the natural features that make the park famous. Cost is $1800 per person based on a double occupancy. Price includes all accommodations, meals, guides and instruction, transportation, service fees, entrance and admission fees, and taxes. Contact Sophie Broussard at (307) 578-4114 or sophieb@bbhc.org for full itinerary and additional detail. The Buffalo Bill Historical Center is open daily 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. June through September 15. Five museums are devoted to Western cultural and natural history: the Whitney Gallery of Western Art, Buffalo Bill Museum, Plains Indian Museum, Cody Firearms Museum, and the Draper Museum of Natural History in addition to the McCracken Research Library. For general information, call (307) 587-4771 or visit www.bbhc.org.

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Media Contact: Thom Huge +1 307- 578-4034 thomh@bbhc.org