Home » National Monuments Memorials & Preserves » Interesting Reasons to Visit Devils Tower National Monument

This summer, if you’re planning a trip through Wyoming or the Black Hills region, make sure to visit Devils Tower National Monument. I must say, it’s an impressive geological wonder and a sacred site, unlike any other in the United States. As the nation’s first national monument, Devils Tower captivates visitors with its towering basalt columns, Native American cultural significance, and magnificent views.

Two people posing next to the Devils Tower National Monument sign.

The Devils Tower National Monument is clearly visible from miles away. Dominating the skyline, it rises from the green valley floor and literally towers above the plain in northeastern Wyoming. A butte, Devils Tower is made of igneous rock, possibly a laccolithic. It rises 1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River, measuring 867 feet from summit to base.

“There is a way that nature speaks, that land speaks. Most of the time we are simply not patient enough, quiet enough, to pay attention to the story.”― Linda Hogan

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Rock formation known as Devils Tower with vertical grooves, surrounded by evergreen trees under a clear blue sky.

Navigating to Devils Tower from Nearby Cities

The prominent landmark is a great stop if you are on your way to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Park. As part of our Black Hills road trip adventure, we did this as an easy 2 hour day trip from Rapid City (107-miles). We combined it with the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, Deadwood, and Sturgis.

  • If you’re coming from Rapid City, South Dakota, it’s about a 1 hour 45 minute drive west (110 miles) via I-90 and US-14.
  • From Gillette, Wyoming, expect a 1-hour drive northeast (65 miles), and from Spearfish, South Dakota, it’s roughly 75 miles or 1.5 hours.
  • Alternatively, exit 153 from Interstate 90. Follow U.S. 14 east to Wyoming 24 east to Wyoming 110 west to the monument. The tower is 9 miles south of Hulett, WY.
Devils Tower, a prominent geological formation, under a clear blue sky. The tower is a massive, monolithic structure with a flat top and steep, vertical sides composed of grayish rock. Surrounding the base of the tower are dense clusters of evergreen trees, creating a verdant foreground that contrasts with the earthy tones of the tower. The terrain around the tower is a mix of green grass and exposed rocky patches, indicative of the area's rugged landscape. In the distance, rolling hills dotted with trees extend towards the horizon.

What to Know Before You Visit: Devils Tower National Monument

  • Entrance Fee: $25 per vehicle (valid for 7 days). Those who buy the America the Beautiful annual parks pass to the National Park Service can go to any national park and into thousands of other federal recreation sites for the whole year. And it costs just $80. Visitors can purchase Devils Tower National Park passes in advance by going to Recreation.gov.
  •  Operating Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours a day: Visitor Center typically open from spring through fall (check NPS.gov for hours and updates).
  • Pets: Allowed on leash (only in parking areas and paved trails).
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring/Fall: Ideal for hiking and climbing (mild temps). Summer: Busiest season; expect heat and afternoon thunderstorms. Winter: Quiet but icy trails (check road closures). Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular photo opportunities.
  • Weather Can Change Quickly: Bring layers—even in summer, temperatures can drop. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer.
  • Cell Service & Connectivity: Limited to no cell service in some areas—download maps/info in advance
View of Devils Tower with vertical rock columns and surrounding green pine trees under a bright blue sky.

An Interesting Point: How Devils Tower Got Its Name

How did Devils Tower National Monument get its name? In 1875, during an expedition led by Colonel Richard Irving Dodge, a misinterpretation changed the course of the landmark’s history. One of Dodge’s interpreters mistakenly translated the Native name for the formation as “Bad God’s Tower,” which was later shortened to “Devil’s Tower.” Despite objections from many indigenous clans—who refer to the site as “Bear Lodge” or “Bear’s Tipi”—the name stuck and was officially adopted. Today, there are ongoing efforts to restore the monument’s original, culturally respectful name.

a museum exhibit with panels in front of a photo backdrop featuring Devils Tower, an iconic geological formation against an orange-hued sky at sunset. The exhibit consists of three main informational panels: "The First Monument," "Ranching Life," and "Explorers." Each panel contains text and images related to its topic. The panels are visually similar, with a dark green background and white text. Below these, a flat display surface has materials titled "Devils Tower Voices," which include tactile and printed booklets and tags with names and Braille. There is also a small digital display off to the right.

Sacred Stories and Legends of Devils Tower National Monument

As varied as the majestic monolith and its columns are the stories of Devils Tower National Monument. According to scientists, the rocks’ oldest stories reveal the geologic mysteries of their formation. Indigenous cultures have passed on many other stories. Most times, myths and legends should be referred to as oral histories or sacred narratives.

The Kiowa and Lakota clans tell the tale of a bear attacking a group of girls. To save their lives, they prayed to the Great Spirit. The legend states it formed when the rocks in the ground suddenly grew up, saving the girls. While clawing at the rock’s side, the bear left deep scratches. So that’s why it is called “Bear’s Tipi” or “Bear Lodge.”

Devil's Tower with sunlight through pine trees against a clear blue sky.

Similarly, the Sioux recount the tale of two boys who strayed from their village, only to be spotted by Mato—a bear with claws larger than tipi poles—who intended to devour them. In their prayers to Wakan Tanka, the Creator, they sought help for their situation. The rock rose. Mato then attempted to climb up the mountain from each side, leaving huge scratch marks in his wake. In the end, the bear gave up, disappointed, and decided to rest east of the Black Hills at what is now known as Bear Butte. They were helped off the rock by the eagle (Wanblee) and back to their village. 

a rustic log cabin-style building, functioning as a visitor center, nestled among tall pine trees. The structure features horizontal dark wooden logs with a weathered, shingle-covered roof. On the right side of the building, there are large windows that allow natural light to enter. Two yellow wooden benches are placed under the windows, providing seating for visitors. A sign above one window reads "Visitor Center." The sky is a clear, vibrant blue, indicating a sunny day. The surrounding area is paved, with a gentle slope leading to the entrance.

Things to Do at Devils Tower

1. Devils Tower Must-see Attractions: the Visitor Center

Check out the visitor’s center after you arrive at the parking lot. It’s a great place to get oriented before you explore. Built in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the small ponderosa pine cabin is on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitor Center/ bookstore is open daily from 9am-6pm. Inside, we found interesting educational displays that explain much of the history of the park and the tower. Passport Cancellation Stamp is available outside visitor center 24 hours a day. Junior Ranger Programs and Ranger guided tours are also available here.

PRO Tip: Arrive early if possible, as the visitor center has very limited parking.

a detailed model of Devils Tower, a notable geographical formation. The model is a three-dimensional representation, showing the tower's vertical columns rising from its base, mimicking its natural form. It is mounted on a rectangular slab, placed on a grassy area, with sunlight casting shadows. The surface of the model is textured, reflecting the rock's uneven and striated appearance. In front of the model is a black informational plaque with white text and braille dots, providing geological and dimensional details about Devils Tower, like its height, width, and age.

Geologic Wonders: How Devils Tower Was Formed

As we explored the exhibits inside the Visitor Center, we discovered fascinating insights into the Tower’s origins. While theories vary, most geologists agree that Devils Tower began forming around 50 million years ago, when magma pushed its way into layers of sedimentary rock beneath the surface. Over millions of years, erosion stripped away the softer surrounding rock, revealing the striking phonolite porphyry columns we see today—sculpted further by ice, wind, and rain.

a display panel at an informational exhibit about the formation of geological columns. The top section of the image contains a descriptive panel with text and images. Below it, three models are presented to illustrate different stages of column formation. The left model is vibrant red with glowing orange vein-like patterns, resembling molten rock. The middle model is a grayish color, portraying a hexagonal column top texture. The right model is also gray, showcasing elongated and slightly eroded columns, simulating natural weathering. All models sit on a light-colored platform.

The Tower’s most iconic feature—its massive, vertical columns—are a result of a geologic process called columnar jointing, with some columns reaching up to 10 feet across. And despite what pop culture might suggest, the summit isn’t a crater from an alien encounter—it’s a naturally flat plateau, shaped entirely by Earth’s forces.

Two people standing in front of Devils Tower with a clear blue sky.
View of Devils Tower from the Visitor Center

2. Circle the Tower: What to Expect Hiking on the Tower Trail

Walking the base of Devils Tower, I was surprised by how fascinating it really is. I sensed its sacred aura. Sitting quietly among prayer cloths, listening to the wind through the pines, left a lasting impression upon me.

Paved trail at Devils Tower National Monument surrounded by large rocks and trees.

The park’s most popular hike is the 1.3-mile paved Tower Trail, looping the base of Devils Tower. Starting at the visitor center, it winds through ponderosa pines draped in Native American prayer cloths—honor annual ceremonies by avoiding photography if present. Enjoy views of the Belle Fourche River Valley, interpretive signs, and the Boulder Field, where eroded rock fragments pile beneath the Tower.

an informational display board from the National Park Service. It features a purple background with white and black text. In the top left corner is an oval black-and-white photograph of Willard Ripley. Below it, the name "Willard Ripley" is printed. Adjacent to this is another oval black-and-white photograph of William Rogers with his name printed underneath. To the right of these photos is an image of a tactile representation of a ladder section, labeled "Ladder." The ladder model appears to depict a rugged, narrow climbing ladder. The upper part of the image is occupied by the title "Reach for the Top" in large, bold white letters. Text beneath describes the history of the ladder ascent of Devils Tower by Ripley and Rogers. Additional text at the bottom notes that on July 4, 1895, Linnie Rogers became the first woman to scale the ladder.

Midway, we spot remnants of the 1893 wooden stake ladder (170 feet up, now barely visible) or watch modern climbers ascend the columns. The trail’s mix of geology, history, and cultural reverence makes it unforgettable.

The most common ritual that takes place at the Tower is prayer offerings. Colorful cloths or bundles are placed near the Tower - commonly seen along the park's trails - and represent a personal connection to the site.

3. Scaling the Tower: Watch Rock Climbers Take on the Challenge

Rock climbers see this vertical intrusion as a challenge. It was extraordinary watching the climbers make their way, inching up the 1200 foot vertical walls. Those with experience choose their trail scaling to the top. There is no marked trail. There are, however, over 150 rock-climbing routes in the Devils Tower. It is possible to complete the climb up large hexagonal columns in as little as 4 hours, but most take longer. It was incredible to see.

The tower trail provided a little known yet interesting fact. A parachutist named George Hopkins attempted to land on Devils Tower in 1941. As he was falling, a rope of 1000 feet missed the top of the tower and landed on the side of the tower where he couldn’t reach it. Despite being stranded for six days, he took advantage of the publicity that resulted from his situation. In the meantime, a plane dropped supplies and blankets to him on the tower as he awaited rescue.

Note: Climbers are required to register at the visitor’s center. Beware of snakes, rodents and other wildlife that call the tower home.

Person standing on a rocky outcrop overlooking a valley with green fields and scattered pine trees under a blue sky.
Cattleman’s Dream-Belle Fourche River Valley

4. Hiking the Red Beds Trail: Scenic Views Beyond the Tower

We invested a considerable amount of time on the various tower trails. It seemed to me that each new path unfurls a fresh facet of the towers’ soaring pillars. The park’s mix of pine groves, grasslands, and woodlands seemed to be teeming with wildlife. We saw deer grazing in the morning mist, and lots of prairie dogs barking along the trails.

Spearfish Formation on the Red Hills Trail with Devils Tower in the Background
Red Hills Trail-Spearfish Formation

For a simple loop, we combined the 2.5-mile Red Beds Trail (flat and best for taking in the scenery) with the 0.6-mile South-Side Trail, a short connector with close views of the base of the tower. But the showstopper was Red Beds Trail, where the rust-red Spearfish Formation captured the eye. Its red hue—attributable to iron oxide minerals—is 200 million years old, dating back to ancient sandstone and shale. Don’t miss this geologic show; it’s like strolling through a layer cake of the history of the Earth. Download the park map here for trail details and planning.

PRO Tip: If you plan on doing any hiking, we recommend each person should bring at least one liter of water per hour to drink. Protect yourself from the sun and heat by also wearing sunscreen with a high SPF. Wearing a hat is a must.

A lush pine forest with sunlight streaming through the trees, a fallen trunk in the foreground, and a clear blue sky.

5. Take in the View from Joyner Ridge Trail

A hike along the 1.5 mile Joyner Ridge Trail. It offers beautiful views of the Tower while following the ridgeline. It passes through tall grass prairies and dense forests. The Joyner Trail is one of the monument’s lesser-known quieter trails and offers a chance to explore another part of the monument. It is a great place to get away from the crowds. This1.5-mile moderately challenging walking trail gives visitors the opportunity to explore the monument in another way. It is off the beaten path a hidden treasure.

Created by the Japanese artist Junkyu Muto, this sculpture represents the Native American Tribes. The sculpture signifies the first smoke from a lit pipe. Standing directly in front of it, the sculpture perfectly frames Devils Tower.
Created by the Japanese artist Junkyu Muto, this sculpture represents the indigenous clans. The sculpture signifies the first smoke from a lit pipe. Standing directly in front of it, the sculpture perfectly frames Devils Tower.

6: Travel Guide Must Do: Visit the Circle of Sacred Smoke Sculpture

The sculpture by the Japanese artist Junkyu Muto symbolizes peace. Sitting atop a massive granite base, they took the marble rock for the sculpture from Italy’s Fantiscritti Quarry. Said to be the source of Michelangelo’s marble. She carved it to raise awareness of the native clans that find this to be a sacred place. It represents a puff of smoke as it leaves the ceremonial pipe and rises. I just love how it frames the monument.

7. Visit Prairie Dog Town: A Must-See Stop at Devils Tower

Prairie Dog Town, located off the highway, offers a close-up experience to watch an active colony. I took a break on my hike up to the Circle of Sacred Smoke Sculpture to watch them rush between holes. Their high-pitched squeaks echoed across the meadow—an alarm system warning the others of the presence of yet another visitor. It’s a nice and lively place that’s a must-see.

Prairie Dog Town-Prairie Dog sitting by its mound burrow
Who doesn’t like prairie dogs?

Devils Tower National Monument is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, wild turkeys, bald eagles, and black bears—perhaps the most entertaining resident is the black-tailed prairie dog. These communal, burrowing animals are a vital component of the prairie ecosystem. Since they are a keystone species, their digging helps to recycle topsoil and maintain prairie grass health, as well as serving as a source of food for their predators, golden eagles and coyotes.

Friendly reminder: please do not feed the prairie dogs or any wildlife. These animals have a specially adapted diet tied to their environment and anything consumed outside of their natural diet can cause serious health complications for these critters. Remember, leave no trace.

Devils Tower with pine trees in the foreground under a clear blue sky.

8. Photograph the Tower at Sunrise or Sunset

Golden hour is the perfect time to capture the dramatic beauty of Devils Tower. Soft morning light or fiery evening skies highlight the tower’s rugged texture and towering presence. For the best views, head to Joyner Ridge or pullouts along the main park road.

Base of a large multicolored rock formation with trees and boulders in the foreground.

9. Stargaze Under Dark Skies: Devils Tower After Dark

If you have the time in your schedule after the sun sets, Devils Tower transforms into a stargazer’s paradise. At least that is what I have been told, since we could not stay late. With minimal light pollution, the monument offers exquisite views of the night sky—perfect for spotting constellations, shooting stars, and even the Milky Way on clear nights. If you can add this to your travel guide, I’d bring a blanket, lay back, and enjoy nature’s celestial show.

View of Devils Tower at dusk with a glowing orange moon in a deep blue sky.
Credit: NPS / Avery Locklear

Final Thoughts: Interesting Reasons to Visit Devils Tower National Monument

We weren’t sure Devils Tower would be worth the stop on our Dakota road trip—but it completely blew us away. As kids of the ’70s, we’d seen Close Encounters of the Third Kind, but nothing compares to seeing it in person. It’s a magical, awe-inspiring place that captured our imagination more than we ever expected.

Have you ever visited Devils Tower, Wyoming or the Black Hills, South Dakota? If so, what were your favorite places? Please let us know by leaving us a comment below.