Devils Tower National Monument!
The Devils Tower National Monument is an iconic natural wonder located in northeastern Wyoming. It’s best known for its towering rock formation, which rises 1,267 feet above the surrounding landscape. The monument holds deep cultural significance for Native American tribes and is a popular spot for visitors who enjoy nature, hiking, and rock climbing. Its unique shape and striking appearance have made it a must visit for travelers visiting Wyoming.
In this Article
1. Must-See Attractions
Visitor Center
The Visitor Center at Devils Tower National Monument is the best place to learn about the park’s geology, history and cultural significance. Built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the center is made of local ponderosa pine logs, giving it a rustic feel. Visitors can explore exhibits explaining the formation of Devils Tower, its importance to Indigenous tribes, and its role in conservation. Inside the center, visitors can find a bookstore stocked with guidebooks, maps and souvenirs. Park rangers share details about climbing guidelines, hiking routes and offer tips on staying safe around local wildlife.
Tower Trail
The Tower Trail is the most popular hike in Devils Tower National Monument, offering a close-up view of the massive rock formation. This 1.3 mile loop is paved and takes about 45 minutes to an hour at a relaxed pace, with plenty of spots to pause and enjoy the views. The trail goes around the base of Devils Tower, allowing hikers to see its unique columns from different angles. As you go, informational signs share insights about the monument’s history, geology and cultural importance. Devils Tower is sacred to many Indigenous tribes, and prayer flags tied to trees can often be seen along the trail.
Red Beds Loop Trail
The Red Beds Loop Trail stretches 2.8 miles around Devils Tower, passing through grasslands and eye-catching red rock landscapes. The trail is considered moderately difficult, with some steep and rocky portions that require careful footing. It begins near the visitor center, climbing through hills before descending toward the Belle Fourche River valley, where hikers get scenic views of the monument. The vibrant red sandstone of the Spearfish Formation is visible along the route. Since the trail isn’t maintained during winter, it can become slippery after rain, so visitors should take caution when hiking.
Belle Fourche River
The Belle Fourche River has shaped the landscape and supporting local ecosystems, by carving deep into the sedimentary rock, exposing layers of red sandstone cliffs in the monument. Belle Fourche means “beautiful fork” in French, and early explorers also referred to it as the North Fork of the Cheyenne River. The river played a major role in the formation of Devils Tower, as erosion gradually removed softer rock around the Tower, leaving the monument standing alone. In the past, spring floods were common, but the construction of Keyhole Reservoir upstream has reduced the river’s natural flow.
Cultural Exploration
Devils Tower National Monument is more than just a rock formation — it holds deep cultural significance for many Indigenous tribes. For thousands of years, Native American communities have viewed the Tower as a sacred place, and it continues to be an important site for ceremonies and storytelling. Oral histories from tribes such as the Lakota, Cheyenne, Crow and Kiowa describe the Tower’s origins, often involving legends of bears and heroic figures. Visitors may notice prayer flags tied to trees near the base, left by Indigenous groups as part of their traditions.
Ranger-led programs provide insights into the history and beliefs surrounding the Tower, helping visitors understand its role beyond its geological features. Devils Tower became the first national monument in the U.S. in 1906, yet its importance stretches well beyond that title, holding cultural and geological meaning. The site remains a place of reflection and respect, where visitors can appreciate both its natural beauty and its deep cultural connections.
Geological Formations
Devils Tower Monument features incredible geological formations that reveal the Earth’s history, shaped over millions of years. The most famous feature is Devils Tower itself, a massive rock formation that rises above the surrounding landscape. Scientists believe the Tower was formed by the intrusion of magma into sedimentary rock, which later eroded away, leaving behind the striking columns seen today. The rock is classified as phonolite porphyry, a rare igneous rock that weathers into green or brown hues.
Surrounding the Tower, visitors can see layers of sedimentary rock, including red and yellow siltstone, sandstone, and gray shale, which were deposited by ancient rivers and shallow seas. The Spearfish Formation, visible along the Red Beds Trail, contains some of the oldest exposed rocks in the park, dating back to the Triassic period. The Sundance Formation, found in various parts of the monument, includes fossilized remains of marine life such as oysters and clams, showing that the area was once covered by water.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Hiking Trails
Devils Tower Monument offers several hiking trails, each providing unique views of the Tower and landscape. Tower Trail is a 1.3 mile paved loop, circling the base of Devils Tower and making for an easy walk. Red Beds Trail is a 2.8 miles loop, passing through forests, meadows, and striking red rock formations with steep sections. Joyner Ridge Trail offers a quieter experience, featuring pine forests and open grasslands with distant views of the Tower. South Side Trail and Valley View Trail Loop is a 1.5 mile route, connects different areas of the park, including prairie dog towns and scenic overlooks.
Night Sky Viewing
Devils Tower Monument is one of the best places in Wyoming for night sky viewing, offering clear, dark skies away from city lights. As the sun sets, the monument stands tall against a backdrop of stars, creating a stunning sight for visitors. The park is known for its minimal light pollution, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and astrophotography. On clear nights, the Milky Way stretches across the sky, and constellations like Ursa Major and Orion are easy to spot. Rangers rarely host night sky programs, sharing stories about the Lakota constellation Mato Tipila, which is connected to Devils Tower.
Rock Climbing
Devils Tower Monument is one of the best places for rock climbing in the western United States. The Tower’s vertical columns create natural cracks that climbers use to make their way up. Hundreds of climbing routes exist, ranging from beginner-friendly paths to advanced technical climbs. The most famous route is the Durrance Route, one of the oldest established climbs on the Tower. Other popular routes include Soler Crack and El Matador, each offering unique challenges. Climbers must register before attempting a climb, and certain routes may be closed at times to respect Indigenous traditions.
Photography Spots
Devils Tower Monument offers incredible photography spots for visitors looking to capture its unique landscape. The Tower Trail is one of the best places to photograph Devils Tower up close, providing different angles as it circles the base. For a wider view, the Joyner Ridge Trail offers stunning shots of the monument rising above the rolling hills, especially at sunrise and sunset. The Red Beds Trail showcasing the contrast between the red rock formations and the towering structure. Night photography is popular here, with clear skies making it an ideal spot for capturing the stars above Devils Tower.
3. Iconic Landmarks
Joyner Ridge Trail
The Joyner Ridge Trail is one of the most scenic and peaceful hikes in Devils Tower National Monument. This 1.5 mile loop offers stunning views of Devils Tower from a distance while passing through tall grass prairies and dense forests. The trail is named after Newell Joyner, a former park custodian, and provides an alternative to the more crowded Tower Trail. Hikers can enjoy a mix of open landscapes and shaded sections to enjoy sunrise and sunset views. The eastern portion of the trail has a steep elevation change, so visitors should wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for some uphill climbs.
Boulder Field
As visitors begin the Tower Trail, their first up-close look at Devils Tower is at Boulder Field, where massive rock formations sit at the base of the monument. This area is made up of large rocks that have fallen from the Tower over time due to natural erosion. The boulders range in size from small stones to massive chunks as big as refrigerators or school buses. Many visitors enjoy climbing over the rocks, and climbing beyond the boulder field requires registration at the climbing kiosk. It’s a great spot to watch climbers making their way up the Tower, especially during the busy climbing season.
Prairie Dog Town
The Prairie Dog Town is a lively area where visitors can see hundreds of prairie dogs in their natural habitat. Located near Belle Fourche River, this 40 acres colony is home to over 600 prairie dogs, making it one of the remaining prairie dog towns in the Black Hills region. These small, social animals live in underground burrows and communicate using a series of chirps and calls. Their tunnels are complex, with separate areas for sleeping, food storage and lookout points. Visitors can watch prairie dogs from their cars or explore nearby trails like South Side Trail and Valley View Trail for a closer view.
4. Family-Friendly Activities
Educational Films
Devils Tower Monument has been featured in educational films that highlight its geology, history and cultural significance. One of the most well-known films connected to the monument is Close Encounters of the Third Kind, which brought global attention to the Tower’s formation, Indigenous stories and mysterious presence. The NPS provides educational videos and documentaries that explain how Devils Tower was formed, its importance to Native American tribes, and its role in conservation. These films are shown at the Visitor Center, giving visitors a chance to learn more before exploring the park.
Scenic Drives
Scenic drives around the monument provide a peaceful way to take in the area’s beauty without hiking. Highway 24 is a popular route, running through rolling prairies, forested hills and small historic towns before reaching the monument. Travelers can stop along the way to admire the scenery and spot wildlife like deer and wild turkeys. Another scenic option is the Highway 14 loop, which connects Sundance and Moorcroft, offering views of ranch lands and the Black Hills region. These drives give visitors a chance to experience the monument from different angles while enjoying the scenic landscapes.
Camping Sites
Camping at Devils Tower National Monument is a great way to experience its peaceful surroundings and scenic views. The main campground inside the park, Belle Fourche River Campground, offers 45 sites on a first-come, first-served basis, with options for tents and RVs. It provides basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water but does not have hookups or showers. Tall cottonwood trees provide shaded areas, while the Belle Fourche River nearby adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Outside the park, Devils Tower / Black Hills KOA Journey provides RV sites, tent spaces, and cabins with extra amenities like a camp store and restaurant. Another unique option is Devils Tower Tipi Camping, where guests can stay in traditional tipis or a Civil War-era wall tent for a rustic experience. Visitors should bring all necessary supplies, as grocery stores and gas stations are several miles away. Campfires may be restricted during dry periods, so checking regulations beforehand is important.
Ranger-Led Programs
The Ranger-led programs at Devils Tower Monument give visitors a chance to learn about the park’s history, geology and culture through engaging talks and guided activities. These programs take place at the pavilion near the Tower Trailhead and are available on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with some continuing into September. Rangers lead discussions on topics such as the formation of Devils Tower, Indigenous traditions and the wildlife found in the area. Special events like storytelling sessions and cultural presentations, provide insights into the monument’s significance.
5. Day Trips & Excursions
Geographic Center of the Nation Monument
Driving around 1.5 hours from Devils Tower, visitors can reach the Geographic Center of the Nation Monument in Belle Fourche, SD. The monument represents the geographic center of the United States, adjusted after Alaska and Hawaii joined the nation. It sits at the Tri-State Museum, where visitors can see a large compass rose surrounded by flags from all 50 states. Inside the museum, visitors can explore exhibits about ranching traditions, early settlers and region’s history. The town hosts the Black Hills Roundup, one of the oldest rodeos in the country, held each year around the Fourth of July.
Thunder Basin National Grassland
From Devils Tower, a day trip to Thunder Basin National Grassland takes about 2 hours, passing through open prairies and small towns. Thunder Basin is known for its open spaces, offering wildlife viewing, hiking and photography, with pronghorn antelope and various birds often spotted. The area does not have developed campgrounds, but dispersed camping is allowed for those wanting to stay overnight. Off-road vehicle trails are available for ORV riding, with designated paths for vehicles 50 inches. The area is far from town, so visitors should pack enough food, water and fuel before starting their trip.
Mount Rushmore National Memorial
A day trip to Mount Rushmore National Memorial takes 2.5 hours drive from Devils Tower, passing through the scenic roads of Black Hills. Mount Rushmore features the carved faces of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson and Theodore Roosevelt, showcasing visitors one of America’s most iconic landmarks. The Presidential Trail provides close-up views of the monument, while the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center shares information on its history and construction. The Sculptor’s Studio offers insights about the carving process, showing tools and models used during its creation.
Black Hills National Forest
Planning a day trip from Devils Tower, takes about 1.5 hours drive to reach Black Hills National Forest, offering a relaxing journey. The forest is known for its dense pine trees, rugged terrain and diverse wildlife, with opportunities for hiking, scenic overlooks and picnic areas. Popular spots include Spearfish Canyon, Roughlock Falls and Iron Mountain Road, where visitors can enjoy nature. The forest also has campgrounds and fishing areas, making it a great place for outdoor activities. History enthusiasts can visit Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial and Deadwood, a historic town with museums.
How to Reach Devils Tower National Monument
The easiest way to reach Devils Tower National Monument is by taking Interstate 90 and exiting onto US Highway 14, either at Moorcroft (Exit 153 if coming from the west) or Sundance (Exit 185 if coming from the east). Wyoming Highway 24 then leads directly to the monument, passing through scenic landscapes and small towns like Hulett. For those arriving by air, the closest major airport is Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP) located in Rapid City, SD, which is about 2 hours drive by car and handles many domestic flights.
Another option is Northeast Wyoming Regional Airport (GCC) located in Gillette, about an hour and 20 minutes away, which is quieter and offers some regional flights. After landing, visitors can rent a car and drive to Devils Tower, enjoying a scenic route that showcases the plains and forests of the region. Visitors driving from Yellowstone National Park should expect a 6 hours drive covering around 350 miles.
Local Transportation
Devils Tower National Monument is a remote destination, and visitors rely on personal vehicles to get around, as there is no public transport within the park. The monument is accessed by Wyoming Highway 24, which connects to US Highway 14 near Devils Tower Junction. Most visitors arrive by car, RV, or motorcycle, as rental cars are available at nearby airports like Gillette and Rapid City. The roads leading to the monument are well-maintained, but travelers should check for seasonal closures or weather conditions before heading out.
Parking is available near the visitor center and trailheads, but spaces fill up quickly during peak months. Bicycles are allowed on park roads, but there are no dedicated bike lanes, and riders should be cautious of traffic. Walking is a great way to explore the monument once inside, with trails like Tower Trail and Red Beds Loop providing easy access to scenic views. While there are no shuttle services, nearby campgrounds and lodges offer parking for guests staying overnight.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the optimal time of the year to visit Devils Tower National Monument?
The optimal time to visit Devils Tower starts from late spring to early fall seasons. The weather is generally mild and pleasant during these months, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and climbing. Summer months (June through August) are the busiest, so if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting in May or September. Winter brings colder temperatures and snow, which can be beautiful but may limit some outdoor activities.
2. Can I climb Devils Tower National Monument?
Yes, climbing Devils Tower is possible and popular among experienced climbers. However, it’s important to note that climbing is regulated by the National Park Service. There are specific rules and guidelines in place to protect the monument and respect its cultural significance to Native American tribes. The monument is closed to climbing during the month of June to honor Native American cultural traditions. Always check the latest climbing regulations before planning your ascent.
3. Are there guided tours available at Devils Tower?
Yes, guided tours are available at Devils Tower National Monument. The National Park Service offers ranger-led programs that include hikes and educational talks about the monument’s geology, history, and cultural significance. These programs are a great way to learn more about the area and enhance your visit. Be sure to check the park’s schedule for tour availability during your visit.
4. What hiking trails are available at Devils Tower?
Devils Tower offers several hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. The most popular trail is the Tower Trail, a 1.3-mile loop that circles the base of the tower and provides stunning views of the formation. This trail is relatively easy and great for families. For a more challenging hike, you might try the Joyner Ridge Trail, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. All trails are well-maintained and provide different perspectives of this unique geological feature.
5. Is there camping available near Devils Tower?
Yes, there is camping available at Devils Tower. The Belle Fourche River Campground is the primary campground within the park and offers both tent and RV sites. It is a convenient option for those who want to stay close to the monument. There are also several campgrounds in the nearby towns of Hulett and Moorcroft if you prefer more amenities or a different setting.
