Heart Mountain is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in northern Park County, Wyoming, United States. It lies at the eastern base of the Shoshone Mountains and the northern foot of the Bighorn Mountains, roughly 20 miles west of Cody along US Highway 14/16/20. The name also refers to nearby Heart Mountain State Easement, Bureau of Land Management lands, and the historic Heart Mountain Relocation Center, a World War II internment site located a few miles north of the community. This guide explains exactly where Heart Mountain is, how to get there, and what to expect when you arrive.
Exact location and coordinates
Heart Mountain, Wyoming, is in Park County at approximately 44.965° N, 108.931° W. It is part of Cody’s micropolitan area in north-central Wyoming, sitting close to the intersection of US Highway 14, US Highway 16, and US Highway 20. The community post office uses ZIP code 82446. It is roughly 50 miles north of Sheridan and 110 miles south of Billings, Montana, making it a central stop for travelers exploring the region’s outdoor and historical resources.
Geography and setting
Heart Mountain’s geography is defined by its position between two mountain ranges: the Bighorn Mountains to the west and the Shoshone Mountains to the east. The surrounding basin supports ranching, small-scale agriculture, and grasslands. The area experiences cold winters and warm summers, with elevation near 4,500 feet influencing local climate and access. US Highway 14/16/20 runs through the community, and the Bighorn Canal and surrounding Bureau of Land Management lands add to the region’s working landscape character.
Nearby towns and services
For travelers and residents, Heart Mountain is relatively close to several service centers:
- Cody, Wyoming: roughly 20 miles west; offers lodging, restaurants, fuel, and an airport
- Mogul, Montana: approximately 12 miles north; small community with limited services
- Albin, Wyoming: about 15 miles east; primarily residential and agricultural
- Wapiti, Wyoming: several miles southwest; access to BLM lands and recreation
Why people ask about Heart Mountain
Travelers often wonder where Heart Mountain is because the name carries multiple meanings: the geographic community, the state-managed easement lands, and the World War II internment center. Visitors en route to Yellowstone National Park, the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, or local ranches may pass through or near Heart Mountain without realizing the site’s layered historical significance. Understanding its precise location helps contextualize both its natural setting and its role in mid-20th century American history.
Historical context and significance
Heart Mountain gained national attention during World War II as the site of the Heart Mountain Relocation Center, one of ten internment camps where Japanese Americans were forcibly held. The facility operated from 1942 to 1945 and is preserved today as a National Historic Landmark. The nearby Heart Mountain State Easement includes lands historically used for farming, ranching, and timber. These layers of history are central to the area’s identity and are reflected in local exhibits, memorials, and public programs.
Practical information for visitors
Visiting Heart Mountain is straightforward, though services are limited in the immediate community. Travelers should plan for basic amenities in Cody or larger towns. Day trips from Cody or longer drives through the region often include Heart Mountain as a waypoint or brief stop. The area offers opportunities for quiet reflection, historical education, and landscape photography. Respect private property, observe signage, and check local conditions before traveling, especially in winter.
Visitor tips
- Fuel up in Cody or other larger towns; services near Heart Mountain are limited
- Carry water and emergency supplies, particularly in shoulder seasons
- Check road and weather conditions, as routes can close temporarily
- Review visiting hours for the interpretive center or memorial sites
- Practice low-impact travel; the landscape is sensitive and historically significant
Quick facts at a glance
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| State | Wyoming | U.S. Census and GNIS |
| County | Park County | U.S. Census and county records |
| ZIP code | 82446 | USPS |
| Coordinates | 44.965° N, 108.931° W | GNIS / U.S. Geological Survey |
| Approximate elevation | 4,500 feet (1,372 meters) | USGS topographic data |
| Nearest major town | Cody, Wyoming (~20 miles west) | U.S. DOT and local maps |
| Key historic site | Heart Mountain Relocation Center (National Historic Landmark) | National Park Service |
| Primary highways | US Highway 14, 16, 20 | Wyoming Department of Transportation |
How to get there and plan your visit
To reach Heart Mountain, use US Highway 14, 16, or 20, which run through the community. From Cody, head west about 20 miles; from the north, approach via smaller county roads if coming from Montana towns. Allow time for rest stops, fuel, and checking local conditions, especially in transitional seasons. Plan for limited services on site and bring essentials for a low-impact visit.
Final takeaways
Heart Mountain’s location in north-central Wyoming places it at a meaningful crossroads of geography, history, and outdoor access. Whether you are traveling to nearby parks, reflecting on its wartime past, or passing through the region, understanding where Heart Mountain is and how to visit responsibly enriches the experience. Prepare ahead, respect the land and community, and you will find a place of quiet significance along the high plains.
FAQ
Reader questions
Where exactly is Heart Mountain located?
Heart Mountain is in northern Park County, Wyoming, at the eastern base of the Shoshone Mountains and near the Bighorn Mountains. The community is along US Highway 14/16/20, approximately 20 miles west of Cody and 110 miles south of Billings, Montana.
Is Heart Mountain part of a national park?
No, Heart Mountain itself is not within a national park boundary. It is on state and Bureau of Land Management lands near Yellowstone National Park and Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, which are nearby protected areas.
What is the Heart Mountain Relocation Center?
A World War II internment site located a few miles north of the community, where Japanese Americans were forcibly confined. It is now a National Historic Landmark preserved for education and remembrance.
Are there visitor facilities at Heart Mountain?
Basic visitor services are limited in the community. Lodging, restaurants, fuel, and supplies are available in Cody, which is the primary hub for travelers exploring the area.
Can I visit the Heart Mountain State Easement lands?
Yes, much of the surrounding land is managed by state and federal agencies for conservation and public use. Conditions and access can vary, so it’s wise to check local guidance before visiting.