Devils Tower: America’s First National Monument

Devils Tower National Monument is an iconic landmark in the United States that has been sacred to Native Americans for centuries and is also a popular destination for those looking to experience an American road trip. The monument is also known for being the site of an alien landing in the movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind, which has sparked interest and intrigue from visitors of all ages.

Let’s explore this natural attraction and figure out how to plan a visit to the site. This will include information about its location, directions, and other things you can do on your visit.

Why You Should Visit Devils Tower

In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt proclaimed the nation’s first national monument, located around the tower. The area had been set aside as a forest Reserve in 1891, and after years of public debate, President Roosevelt used his authority under the Antiquities Act to protect it for future generations.

Devils Tower can be a very interesting stop for those who are in the region often referred to as Real America and want to visit Wyoming.

The uniqueness of this rock formation and its natural surroundings make it really interesting. And for those who loved the famous film by Spielberg, it is an even more memorable experience.

Devils Tower Location?

Devils Tower National Monument is located in the Wyoming portion of the Black Hills and is one of the most well-known geologic features in the state. The only access to the monument is Wyoming Highway 24 which leads you to its base.

Devils Tower National Monument is always open for visitors year-round and is accessible all day. The Visitor Center is open during the Spring, Summer, and Fall from 10 am to 2 pm. Alongside the usual book and souvenirs available for purchase, you will find an exhibition that discusses the history of the monument.

There is a $25 entrance fee for each car or you can use your America the Beautiful Park Pass.

In order to avoid frustration, it is essential to come prepared with a plan and have the necessary info on where to park. The parking area is relatively small, so when coming during high traffic and high season months, parking will be scarce in the area around the visitor center. If you find yourself in this undesirable position, you may want to consider other parking options, for instance, a picnic area and Joyner Ridge Area

How Was The Tower Formed?

The mountain, which rises in the Black Hills region on the edge of the Belle Fourche River, is actually the heart of an ancient volcano. The mountain was formed by an eruption that occurred before humans inhabited this region. The eruption managed to change the landscape of the early earth and created a range of diverse habitats that, over time, became home to many species.

A volcanic rock monolith is created when around the perimeter of the volcano, the rock erodes away and reveals a large central mass of cooled magma. This happens because the lava that cools in certain parts can become much harder than those parts that haven’t cooled yet. This means the outer rocks are more susceptible to erosion and eventually break apart.

Things To Do Near Devils Tower

Devils Tower National Monument has plenty of hiking trails, some with views of the river below, as well as other activities like driving tours.

Devils Tower Climbing

While visiting, you might also be able to spot climbers making their way up the sides of the tower.

If you’re feeling brave enough, from May to August (but not in June as the Native Americans believe this month to have a very important symbolic value) it’s possible to ask for permission to climb the tower and enjoy the beautiful panorama. However, it is important for you to show that you are well prepared to be able to climb the tower.

If you are planning to climb during your visit, you will be required to register first at the climbing kiosk near the Visitor Center. But there is no charge for registering. See the official site for more climbing information.

Devils Tower Sculpture

There is a sculpture created by Junkyu Muto, a Japanese artist, positioned near the picnic area. The name of this sculpture is Circle of Sacred Smoke Sculpture and it’s meant to remind people how important this place was to Native Americans. When you stand in front of it and look at Devils Tower, you can “frame” it inside the sculpture, enabling you to take beautiful souvenir photos

Devils Tower Hiking Trails

The park is not very large, so only four different paths exist if you wish to explore it. Let’s look at what each of them has to offer and how they are laid out for ease of use.

• Tower Trail: as the name might suggest, this is the most popular trail in the park and was created with a very simple itinerary. Starting from the Visitor Center, it goes around Devils Tower and after returning to its starting point, it has come full circle. To complete this trail, you’ll have to walk just over 1.2 miles with a total elevation gain of about 125 feet. It’s a trail that can be done by anyone and is the best choice if you want to get up close and personal with the mountain.
• The Red Beds Trail: Red Beds Trail is a 2.8-mile-long trail that starts at the Visitor Center and loops around Devils Tower. If you take a wider path, it becomes a little bit more challenging.
• Joyner Ridge Trail: The Joyner Ridge Trail does not directly connect to Devils Tower, but it is a 1.5-mile walk that is partially through a forest. This trail offers views of the mountain in the distance and particularly beautiful scenery during sunset on clear days. When the sun sets behind Devils Tower, the entire area will experience a different and unusual atmosphere.
• South Side and Valley View Trails: The South Side and Valley View Trails is a loop trail that starts and ends at the Belle Fourche River Campground, clocking in at just over two miles. The South Side is by far the most scenic portion of this trail as it overlooks the Belle Fourche River which provides visitors with an excellent vantage point of the surrounding valley.

What If I’m Traveling With My Dog?

Dogs are not allowed on any of the trails around Devils Tower but the developed areas like picnic areas, roadways, and campgrounds are ok. All dogs must be leashed and owners need to be sure to pick up after their pets.

EndNote:

Before you go to Devils Tower, make sure you get the most up-to-date information about the park conditions and closures from the official website.

If you have any questions about setup and planning your trip to Devils Tower National Monument, or if you have something to share about your experience, please comment below.