Devils Tower National Monument
Located in the heart of Northeastern Wyoming, Devil’s Tower stands as a truly remarkable sight – a towering, solitary column of igneous rock rising dramatically from the rolling plains. Often referred to as Bear Lodge, this monolith holds deep significance for numerous Northern Plains tribes, representing a sacred site steeped in rich folklore and tradition. Geologically, Devil’s Tower is a fascinating example of ‘cumular jointing’, a result of magma cooling and solidifying in a unique vertical pattern, creating its imposing and awe-inspiring appearance.
Established as the first United States National Monument in 1906, Devil’s Tower attracts visitors from around the globe, not only for its visual grandeur but also for its challenging climbing opportunities. It’s important to note that during specific periods, many tribes respectfully request that climbers refrain from ascending the structure. Beyond its natural beauty, the monument offers a powerful connection to both Earth’s ancient geological history and the enduring traditions of Indigenous American communities.
Recent reviews consistently praise the site’s accessibility, with visitors noting the well-maintained trails and informative signage. Many express delight at the opportunity to observe this extraordinary formation, often accompanied by the peaceful presence of prairie dogs. A historic wooden ladder, used for the first successful climb in 1893, remains visible, offering a tangible link to the monument’s past. If you’re planning a visit, consider arriving early in the morning, particularly during the winter months, to experience the monument with fewer crowds and a quieter atmosphere – a perfect time to appreciate its majesty and reflect on its layered significance.
Google Reviews
I marked this one off of my bucket list on October 1, 2022. Amazing experience! Wear some comfortable walking shoes. The tower is much more impressive than any picture or film that you will see. The columns are massive. (see the pictures I posted of the climbers) I got there early in the morning and the clouds were still covering the top of the tower. There were prairie dogs all around before I got to the entrance so I got some good pics of them. I found the short trail and walked all the way around it; It took me about three hours but I was stopping and taking Pictures of the landscape, the rock itself, and the climbers that were there that day (every step is a postcard view, it's a photographers buffet.) I hope to go back some day. For anyone wondering: if I remember correctly, "pets are not allowed" on the trails, and there are no restrooms on the trails. So if you plan on traveling with pets keep this in mind and double check it before you go. Otherwise this is a great place to spend the day hiking, taking pictures and exploring. The gift shop is full of all kinds of memorabilia for those who like to collect those things.
Amazing natural formation, with some neat factoids of humanity’s interactions with it. The ladder first used in 1893 to climb this formation is still visible with binoculars, or a very good camera. Plenty of informative plaques are present alongside lots of wildlife. We hope to return soon!
Everyone will have their own experience as it will differ from person to person. I had a surreal and profound one, visiting this enormous monument also called as Mato Tipila. There are two trails, Tower and Red beds trail. I would recommend doing the tower loop trail as it circles close to the tower. There are some amazing Lookout points once you’ll finish about 3/4 of the loop going clockwise. Do check out the visitor center / gift shop and learn about all the different folklore regarding how the tower was formed. Since the shutdown is in place, there was no entry fees, but otherwise I believe it $25. -Do keep an eye out for the climbers as that will give you an idea of how big the tower is and also how stupid and audacious humans are to mess with everything that is out there irrespective of the fact that some places have spiritual importance and hold deep relations to some tribes. I did not stay for the night, but I’m sure the sky would be very amazing to watch during the night time. If you are into stargazing/Milky Way then then you should go for it. Do check the weather before your visit as it can change within minutes While I was there, twice it snowed a little bit, and then the sun came out as well. A couple of nearby spots that you can also visit are the Prairie dog town and wind circle sculpture. I visited those places on my way back to Rapid City. Hope this was helpful.
Devils Tower National Monument completely blew me away. Seeing this massive rock formation rise out of the rolling hills is absolutely awe-inspiring. Pictures don’t do it justice; you have to experience it in person to appreciate how majestic and otherworldly it feels. The trails around the base are fantastic, well-marked, scenic, and full of viewpoints that show off the tower from every angle. The park is clean, well-maintained, and easy to explore. Whether you’re hiking, taking photos, or just soaking in the view, Devils Tower is a must-see. Truly one of the most unique and powerful natural landmarks!!
Getting up to the parking lot took an hour because there's a stop light at the bottom of the hill that filters how much traffic gets to the top. Of course this is after you've already entered into the park, so if you turn around and leave you would pay to have seen nothing. This is an easy attraction to visit once you get to the top. There is a walkable trail, and lots of parking. Or benches looking at it if thats more your speed. The visitor center has many collectable items as well as a self guided tour of history. You can sign up to climb it, just remember what you are climbing and that it is sacred ground.
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