Devils Tower
A sacred Native American site and the first U.S. National Monument, this towering igneous intrusion offers stunning views and hiking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Devils Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Native American site and the first U.S. National Monument, this towering igneous intrusion offers stunning views and hiking.
"Outstanding! This should be a "bucket list" item for each and every person! It's so beautiful and impressive."
Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the midday rush and secure parking by arriving early. The main lot fills up quickly! :car:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking. The visitor center has refill stations. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Towering Monolith
Center of the monument
Marvel at the sheer scale and unique geological formation of this iconic 867-foot igneous intrusion.
Tower Trail Loop
Base of the Tower
A paved 1.3-mile loop offering stunning, unobstructed views and photo opportunities of the Tower.
Red Beds Trail
South of the Tower
A longer, less crowded 2.8-mile trail with diverse scenery and excellent views of the Tower.
Climbers Ascending
On the Tower
Watch skilled climbers scale the imposing rock face, a testament to human endeavor against nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key
Respect Sacred Ground
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the midday rush and secure parking by arriving early. The main lot fills up quickly! :car:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking. The visitor center has refill stations. :water_wave:
Respect Sacred Sites
Devils Tower is sacred to Native Americans. Be respectful of any offerings and the natural environment. :pray:
Choose Your Trail Wisely
The paved Tower Trail is popular but crowded. Consider the Red Beds Trail for fewer people and great views. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Parking
Beat the midday rush and secure parking by arriving early. The main lot fills up quickly! :car:
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate!
Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking. The visitor center has refill stations. :water_wave:
Respect Sacred Sites
Devils Tower is sacred to Native Americans. Be respectful of any offerings and the natural environment. :pray:
Choose Your Trail Wisely
The paved Tower Trail is popular but crowded. Consider the Red Beds Trail for fewer people and great views. :hiking_boot:
Junior Ranger Program
Engage kids with the Junior Ranger program! Pick up a booklet at the visitor center. :child:
Drone Use Restrictions
Drones are generally not allowed in National Parks. Check current regulations before flying. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Devils Tower for its awe-inspiring natural beauty and unique geological formation. The accessible trails, particularly the paved Tower Trail, are a hit for all ages, offering stunning views. Many appreciate the cultural significance and legends surrounding the site. However, some find the visitor center bathrooms to be less than ideal, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
"Accessible for all, no hike needed unless you want to. The easy 1.6 miles loop around the base have amazing views. Nice scenic drive with red rocks, hay bails and longhorn cows."
Lisa Chan
"Beautiful small park with million dollar views and fantastic trails. Takes a couple of days to hike them all unless you are really energetic, but there is a nice campground right in the park so you don’t even have to leave. Personally I would avoid the overcrowded (and slippery) paved trail from the visitors center. The Red Bed trail, although longer, gives much better views and is much less crowded."
Amanda Mueller
"Cool place to stop. There are two trails around the tower. One shorter (45min-1h) on a paved surface and the longer one. The visitor center has cool data and a small shop. It also has water to refill the bottles and flush bathrooms. You can use the National Park Annual Pass to enter for free."
Ana Miura
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devils Tower is located in northeastern Wyoming. The closest major airports are in Gillette (GCC) and Rapid City, South Dakota (RAP). From these locations, you'll need to drive. Many visitors access it as a detour from routes like I-90. Some travelers plan it as part of a larger Black Hills or Badlands trip.
Public transportation options directly to Devils Tower are very limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or rent a car for the most flexibility.
From the north or south, take WY-110. From the east, take US-14. From the west, take US-16 and then WY-110. The monument is well-signed from the surrounding highways.
Yes, there is a campground within the park, offering a convenient way to stay overnight. Some visitors also mention finding free campsites in nearby Aladdin, Wyoming.
Absolutely! Many visitors stop at Devils Tower as a day trip, especially if they are passing through the region. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the trails and visitor center.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee. However, if you have a National Park Annual Pass, you can use it for free entry.
The park is generally open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, the visitor center has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check the official NPS website for the most current information.
For a basic visit including the Tower Trail and visitor center, 2-3 hours is usually sufficient. If you plan to hike the longer Red Beds Trail or explore more, allocate half a day or more.
Entrance fees are typically paid at the entrance station. Advance booking isn't usually required for general entry, but it's wise to check the official NPS website for any special event or timed entry requirements.
The National Park Annual Pass covers entry. Other passes like the America the Beautiful Pass are also accepted. Check with the park for any specific senior or military discounts.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The paved Tower Trail (1.3 miles) is popular for its close-up views. For a less crowded experience with great scenery, the Red Beds Trail (2.8 miles) is highly recommended. +1
Yes, there's a visitor center with exhibits about the geology, history, and cultural significance of Devils Tower. It also has restrooms and a small shop.
Climbing Devils Tower is possible but requires a permit and is a serious undertaking. It's a popular spot for experienced rock climbers. +1
You might spot prairie dogs, various birds, and sometimes deer or pronghorn. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife.
The paved Tower Trail is generally accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, offering great views without a strenuous hike.
📸 📸 Photography
The Tower Trail offers many excellent vantage points. The Red Beds Trail also provides unique perspectives, especially from further away. Early morning and late afternoon light are ideal.
Generally, drone use is prohibited in all U.S. National Parks and Monuments to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check the latest regulations.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting, creating a 'golden hour' effect on the Tower. Midday can be harsh, but the Tower is impressive any time.
The pull-offs along the main road leading to the monument often provide scenic framing. The Tower Trail itself has numerous spots perfect for capturing the monolith.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the full scale of the Tower. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting climbers or distant wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and water, as options within the park are limited. The visitor center provides restrooms and educational displays. While the Red Beds Trail is longer, it offers a more natural setting and can be a great adventure for families with older children who enjoy hiking.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Consider a picnic lunch to enjoy the scenic surroundings. The drive to Devils Tower itself is often picturesque, with rolling hills and unique geological features. It's a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs, take stunning photos, and learn about a unique American landmark without dedicating an entire day.
🧗♀️ Adventure Seekers & Climbers
Even if you're not climbing, watching the climbers can be a thrilling spectacle. The sheer scale and unique geology of the Tower are inspiring. For hikers, the Red Beds Trail offers a more strenuous option with varied terrain and excellent views, providing a good workout amidst natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and Legends of Devils Tower
Beyond its geological significance, Devils Tower holds deep cultural importance for Native American tribes, including the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Crow. They refer to it by names like Bear Lodge or Mato Tipila, and it features prominently in their origin stories and spiritual beliefs. Legends speak of it being a place where spirits reside or a sacred site for ceremonies.
This blend of scientific wonder and rich cultural history makes Devils Tower a place of profound fascination. Visitors often feel a sense of awe and connection to both the natural world and the ancient stories woven into its landscape.
Hiking and Exploring the Monument
For a more immersive experience and to escape the main crowds, the Red Beds Trail is a highly recommended 2.8-mile loop. This trail winds through the surrounding landscape, offering varied scenery and excellent photographic opportunities of the Tower from different angles. It's a moderate hike with some elevation changes.
Remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring plenty of water, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. The visitor center provides maps and information on all trails.
Rock Climbing at Devils Tower
Climbing Devils Tower requires a permit, and climbers must adhere to strict regulations to protect both themselves and the monument. The park service works to balance recreational opportunities with the preservation of this sacred site. Watching climbers scale the Tower can be a captivating sight for visitors from below.
While climbing is a major draw for some, it's important for all visitors to be aware of climbing activities and to maintain a safe distance. The presence of climbers adds another layer of dynamism to the already awe-inspiring landscape of Devils Tower.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit