
Little Devils Tower
A challenging yet rewarding hike in Custer State Park, featuring a thrilling rock scramble to a summit with panoramic views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Little Devils Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet rewarding hike in Custer State Park, featuring a thrilling rock scramble to a summit with panoramic views.
"The climb isn't terribly difficult as well and many families with small kids were going up."

🎯 Arrive Early!
Parking fills up quickly. Get there early morning to secure a spot and beat the crowds. :car:
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for the final scramble. The elevation and heat can be intense. :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Summit Scramble
Final ascent to Little Devils Tower
A thrilling rock scramble offering panoramic views of granite spires and distant states.

Poet's Table
Small area near the trail
Discover a hidden spot where visitors leave poems and letters, a unique cultural touchpoint.

Wildflower & Raspberry Trail
Lower sections of the trail
Enjoy vibrant wildflowers and wild raspberries during certain seasons, adding natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Scramble Smart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early!
Parking fills up quickly. Get there early morning to secure a spot and beat the crowds. :car:
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for the final scramble. The elevation and heat can be intense. :droplet:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The last part is a rock scramble. Wear shoes with good grip for safety and ease. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Views
For the best photos, aim for late afternoon when the sun is behind you for optimal lighting. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early!
Parking fills up quickly. Get there early morning to secure a spot and beat the crowds. :car:
💧 Hydration is Key
Bring plenty of water, especially for the final scramble. The elevation and heat can be intense. :droplet:
👟 Sturdy Footwear Needed
The last part is a rock scramble. Wear shoes with good grip for safety and ease. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Views
For the best photos, aim for late afternoon when the sun is behind you for optimal lighting. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Follow the Blue Arrows
When you reach the rocky section, look for blue arrows to guide you up the scramble. :arrowdownsmall:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the rewarding summit views and the unique rock scramble at Little Devils Tower. Many appreciate the opportunity to see wildlife like mountain goats and enjoy the scenic beauty of Custer State Park. Some note that the scramble can be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, and parking can be limited.
"Wonderful hike with quite a bit of "all 4's" climbing towards the end. Really rewarding views on top of LDT. We ran across a mountain goat on the trail"
Fred Burgmeijer
"I hiked there as a part of the loop from Black Elk Peak trailhead to Little Devils Tower. I passed by the Little Devils Tower trailhead. I was told later by my gym coach Jewel that there is Poets Table in a small area with a green picnic table where people have gone for hundreds of years and left poems or letters for others to read. Places to visit and things to read during the next visit."
Douglas Zhu
"Trailhead has a parking lot tight off the road. For the first 3/4 of the trail it's a nice hike through some trees with nice scenery in the distance. The last 1/4 is a scramble which prior to this hike I had no clue what scrambling was. It's basically rock climbing up a bunch of boulders until you are at the top most young children and elderly would not be able to do this safely. Views at the top worth it plus I saw a Mountain goat 🐐. 10/10 would hike again!"
Brady Hayes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Little Devils Tower is located within Custer State Park, South Dakota. You can access it via the Little Devils Tower Trailhead, often reached from the Black Elk Peak trailhead or by driving along the park roads. Parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended.
No, Little Devils Tower is located in Custer State Park, South Dakota, while Devils Tower National Monument is in Wyoming. They are distinct locations, though often visited on the same regional trip.
Many visitors access Little Devils Tower as part of a loop that includes Black Elk Peak. You can also park directly at the Little Devils Tower Trailhead if space is available.
Yes, Custer State Park is famous for its scenic drives like the Needles Highway, which offers stunning views of granite spires and narrow tunnels.
While there isn't camping directly at the trailhead, Custer State Park offers various campgrounds. Some visitors also find free camping options in nearby areas like Aladdin, Wyoming.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Little Devils Tower is within Custer State Park, which requires an entrance fee. The fee is typically per vehicle and valid for a set period, allowing access to all park areas.
The trails in Custer State Park are generally accessible from dawn to dusk. However, it's best to check the official Custer State Park website for any specific seasonal hours or closures.
While there isn't a separate parking fee for the trailhead itself, you will need to pay the Custer State Park entrance fee. Parking lots can fill up quickly, especially during peak times.
Entrance fees for Custer State Park are typically paid upon arrival at the park entrance stations. It's advisable to have cash or a card ready.
Information on discounts for Custer State Park entry, such as for seniors or military, is usually available on the official South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks website.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Little Devils Tower, including the scramble, typically takes about 2.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views.
The hike is generally considered moderate to difficult. The initial part is a pleasant walk, but the final section involves a challenging rock scramble.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip for the rock scramble. Comfortable athletic clothing is recommended. Layers are also a good idea as weather can change.
Restroom facilities are typically available at major trailheads within Custer State Park, including those near Little Devils Tower. It's always a good idea to confirm availability.
Visitors have reported seeing mountain goats and wild raspberries on the trail. Custer State Park is also known for bison, prairie dogs, and various bird species.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers expansive views, allowing you to capture the granite spires and surrounding landscape. The final scramble itself also makes for dramatic photos.
For optimal lighting on the granite formations, aim for late afternoon when the sun is lower and casts a warm glow. However, mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Keep an eye out for wildflowers in bloom and the unique rock formations that give the area its name. The 'Poet's Table' also offers a unique, albeit less scenic, photographic subject.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A zoom lens can be useful for wildlife sightings. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan on shooting during golden hour.
Drone usage is typically restricted in National Parks and State Parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the specific regulations for Custer State Park before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
⛰️ Experienced Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of the Scramble
It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear with good grip, such as hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes. Following the blue arrows painted on the rocks is essential for staying on the safest and most direct route to the top. Take your time, assess each move, and don't hesitate to ask for assistance if needed. The reward for this effort is an unparalleled sense of accomplishment and breathtaking panoramic views.
Connecting Trails and Loops
These loops can range from 7 to over 8 miles and take several hours to complete. The trails offer diverse scenery, from dense forests and open meadows dotted with wildflowers to the dramatic granite formations. Planning your route in advance using apps like AllTrails can be beneficial, as trail conditions and distances can vary.
Wildlife Encounters
Beyond the immediate trail, the park is known for its large herds of bison, which can sometimes be seen grazing in meadows or even crossing roads. Other wildlife you might spot includes prairie dogs, deer, and a variety of bird species. Remember to always maintain a safe distance from all wildlife and never feed them.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit