Little Devils Tower
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Little Devils Tower

4.9
·174 reviews·Custer, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Little Devils Tower

Little Devils Tower

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.9
(174 reviews)

"The climb isn't terribly difficult as well and many families with small kids were going up."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Summit Scramble

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

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

Wildflower & Raspberry Trail

Lower sections of the trail

Enjoy vibrant wildflowers and wild raspberries during certain seasons, adding natural beauty.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds and the heat by arriving early in the morning. The parking lot fills up fast, especially during peak season. Consider visiting on a weekday if possible for a more serene experience.

Scramble Smart

The final ascent to Little Devils Tower involves scrambling over boulders. While many families manage, it requires agility. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes for this challenging but rewarding climb.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Quieter experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Devils Tower National Monument- a quick guide to this unique place. #fyp #foryou #devilstower #nationalpark #Hiking
@gavinhikes
179.3K likes • 1.1M views

🎯 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:

One of the coolest most terrifying experiences. This group was stuck on the opposite side of the road from the herd and wanted over, they decided we were the perfect spot to cross. #custerstatepark #buffalo #harleydavidson #ohboy #scary
@laurareeves15
54.6K likes • 1.1M views
Little Devils Tower I’m not even sure what to say about this trail. It was absolutely stunning. The landscape and rock formations are nothing I had seen before. The climb up to the top was challenging due to the higher elevation and heat. Take it slow and bring lots of water. Once up at the top the view was vast and expansive. The final climb to the top is more of a rock scramble. One dog was ...
lenora_the_airstream
20 likes • 799 views

👟 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:

We loved this one! We hiked up to Black Elk Peak (also known as Harney Peak), then to Cathedral Spires and finally Little Devils Tower. This hike is one big loop and took us about 4.5 hours including the walk to and from the parking lot and our time spent just taking in the views. My watch also recorded 8.8 miles, even though online it says it’s 7.1 miles. Pro tip: get there super early as par...
allie.chrissy1
131 likes • 4.6K views

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

4.9
(174 reviews)

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

Rewarding summit views
Exciting rock scramble
Wildlife sightings

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Challenging scramble for some

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

Yes, Custer State Park is famous for its scenic drives like the Needles Highway, which offers stunning views of granite spires and narrow tunnels. TikTok

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. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🥾 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. Instagram+1

The hike is generally considered moderate to difficult. The initial part is a pleasant walk, but the final section involves a challenging rock scramble. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Little Devils Tower can be a rewarding hike for families, but with a caveat: the final scramble. While many younger children can manage the climb with supervision and assistance, it's essential to assess your child's comfort level with heights and climbing. Reddit The initial part of the trail is pleasant and scenic, offering opportunities to spot wildflowers and enjoy the forest. Instagram Consider bringing extra snacks and plenty of water, and be prepared to help little ones navigate the rocky sections. The sense of achievement at the top is often a huge hit with kids! Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Little Devils Tower offers a stunning backdrop of granite spires and expansive vistas. The golden hour in the late afternoon provides beautiful lighting for capturing the dramatic rock formations. Reddit Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vast landscapes and a zoom lens for potential wildlife sightings. The challenging scramble itself can also make for dynamic and engaging shots. Remember to check park regulations regarding drone usage if you plan to capture aerial footage. Instagram

⛰️ Experienced Hikers

Experienced hikers can extend their adventure by combining Little Devils Tower with Black Elk Peak for a challenging loop. The scramble at Little Devils Tower offers a fun, technical element, while the longer loops provide a good cardiovascular workout and a chance to explore more of Custer State Park's diverse terrain. Instagram+1 Pack accordingly for longer distances, including ample water, food, and navigation tools. The varied trails offer a great way to experience the rugged beauty of the Black Hills. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Scramble

The final approach to the summit of Little Devils Tower is not a typical hike; it's a rock scramble. This involves using your hands and feet to navigate over and around large boulders. While many visitors, including families with children, successfully complete this section, it requires a certain level of agility and confidence. Redditors often describe it as a fun challenge, with some noting it's more akin to beginner rock climbing than a standard trail. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

Connecting Trails and Loops

Little Devils Tower is frequently incorporated into longer hiking loops within Custer State Park, most notably with Black Elk Peak (formerly Harney Peak), the highest point in South Dakota. Many hikers choose to combine these two destinations for a more comprehensive experience. A popular route is the loop that starts near Sylvan Lake, ascends to Black Elk Peak, then traverses to Little Devils Tower, and returns to the lake. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+2

Wildlife Encounters

Custer State Park is a haven for wildlife, and hikers at Little Devils Tower have reported some memorable encounters. While not guaranteed, keep an eye out for mountain goats navigating the rocky terrain. These sure-footed creatures are a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

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