Devil’s Tower is a massive rock formation in the Black Hills region of Wyoming, USA. It is considered sacred to several Native American tribes and was the first declared US National Monument in 1906. The Tower is an igneous intrusion formed by molten magma slowly cooling and solidifying below the surface. Over time, weathering and erosion have exposed the Tower and created its unique, flat-topped shape. The Tower stands over 867 feet (265 meters) tall and is a popular site for rock climbing, hiking, and sightseeing.
How to get there
The nearest airport is in Gillette, WY. Another major airport is in Rapid City, South Dakota, about 90 miles (145 km) from Devil’s Tower.
Views of Devil’s Tower as we approached it from route 24.
Entrance fee
The entrance fee to Devil’s Tower National Monument is $25 per vehicle. It is included in America the Beautiful Pass, a national pass that covers entrance fees at all National Parks and Monuments and costs $80 per year.
Things to do
Visit the visitor’s center
The visitor center is a log structure built in 1935. Inside, you can find park staff, the Bookstore, and exhibits that teach the natural and cultural history of the park.
Hike the surrounding trails
Tower Trail is a 1.3-mile trail that circles the base of the Tower and is paved. It starts from the Visitor Center parking lot and is the most popular hike.
Walking the Tower Trail, you notice clothes or small bundles attached to the trees. Please do not touch, disturb or remove them because these are Native American prayer cloths.
The trail provides views of Devil’s Tower from all angles.
Cattleman’s Heaven
Additional Hikes
Joyner Ridge Trail is a 1.5-mile trail that follows Joyner Ridge and dips down into the draw below.
Red Beds Trail is a 2.8-mile trail that will offer great views of the Tower and the surrounding Belle Fourche River valley. It starts from the visitor center parking lot.
South Side Trail is a 0.6 trail that begins from the amphitheater, proceeds through the prairie dog town, and links into Red Beds Trail.
Valley View Trail is a 0.6 trail that begins from the amphitheater, winds through prairie dog town, and offers picturesque views of the Belle Fourche River.
Watch the rock climbers
We watched the rock climbers on our hike. If you want to climb the tower, you can register at the visitor center before your climb.
Hundreds of parallel cracks divide Devil’s Tower into large hexagonal columns, making it one of the finest traditional crack-climbing areas.
Each year some climbing routes are temporarily closed during the spring and summer to protect falcon nesting sites and to protect climbers from adult falcons who will defensively dive to protect their young.
Check for route closures when you register or at the website.
Ranger’s Program
Ranger programs are typically offered on weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Times and availability will vary, so check the visitor center for the most updated information.
Night Sky Viewing
The park hosts night sky programs throughout the year led by park rangers. Check the visitor center for the schedules. You can also do star gazing from the parking lot or any trails.
When to visit
Devil’s Tower National Monument can be visited year-round. Summer is the peak tourist season, with warm weather and long days. Spring and Fall are great times to visit if you prefer mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be a peaceful and quiet time to visit Devil’s Tower, but some roads and trails may be closed due to snow and ice.
How much time
A half-day visit is good enough to take a scenic drive, visit the visitor center, hike the base trail, and enjoy the views. You can also visit it on a day trip from Rapid City.
Where to stay
The park has a campground which is open from May to October. Several hotels and motels in nearby towns, such as Hulett, Sundance, and Moorcraft, Wyoming, also provide lodging. We stayed a night in Gillette, WY, about 65 miles east of Devil’s Tower.
Nearby Attractions
If you are visiting Devils Tower as part of a road trip, you can also include Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, Crazy Horse Memorial, Jewel Cave National Monument, Wind Cave National Park, and The Mammoth Site in your trip.