The words, "Roam" and "Devils Tower" layered over an image of a person jumping in front of Devils Tower National Monument.

Devils Tower Traveler's Guide

Nestled amongst grassy prairies and ponderosa pine forests, Devils Tower National Monument is a sacred landmark that beckons visitors from all over the world. With rich cultural importance and soaring 867 feet into the sky, Devils Tower is a must-visit. If you’re planning a trip to Wyoming soon, this guide will help you plan your trip and maximize your visit to the Tower.

Table of Contents

Map of Devils Tower National Monument

A scenic landscape with a river and clouds overlooking Devils Tower.

Why go to Devils Tower National Monument?

“Devils Tower packs in so many different stories and aspects of geology and ecology,” said Tyler Devine, lead interpretive park ranger at Devils Tower National Monument. “It’s a natural wonder with a deep sense of human history.” Considered sacred by Northern Plains Tribes and Indigenous people, Devils Tower has held spiritual significance for thousands of years and continues to do so today. In the 1800s, the sky-piercing formation also served as a summer meeting place for early settlers. Continuing its legacy, the Tower remains a gathering place for rock climbers, Indigenous people, local residents, and visitors.

How was Devils Tower formed?

While it is still debated whether Devils Tower was part of a volcanic system, geologists agree that the rock was formed underground from molten rock—classifying it as an igneous intrusion. It is estimated that Devils Tower was formed about 50 million years ago.

Two bison grazing in a wide open landscape in the foreground and Devils Tower National Monument in the background.
A landscape of tall grass and trees in the foreground and Devils Tower National Monument in the background.

Best Time to Visit Devils Tower

While Devils Tower is open year-round, the summer season is the busiest. Park Ranger Tyler Devine encourages visitors to arrive as early as possible from May to September. Peak hours are between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., so arriving outside of those hours will allow for a quieter visit with less traffic—and an opportunity to see a stellar sunrise or sunset.

The words, "Things to Do" layered over an image of a person standing with outstretched arms in front of Devils Tower National Monument.

Top Things To Do Near Devils Tower

In addition to some impressive sightseeing, there are a variety of things to do near Devils Tower National Monument. Grab your hiking boots, fishing rod, or rock climbing gear and get ready for adventure.

Hiking

In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt declared Devils Tower as America’s first national monument. Hiking is arguably the best way to experience the monument on foot. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for wildlife and vibrant wildflowers, and remember to practice Leave No Trace.

A view of Red Beds Loop Trail and the surrounding landscape.

Red Beds Trail

  • Lace up your hiking boots and embark on Red Beds Trail, a 2.8-mile loop with exceptional views of the Tower and neighboring Belle Fourche River Valley.

Joyner Ridge Trail

  • If you’re itching to explore the grassy prairie encompassing the Tower, look no further than Joyner Ridge Trail. This 1.5-mile loop invites you to reconnect with nature.
A close up view of a bench on the Tower Trail overlooking the surrounding landscape.

Tower Trail

  • This paved trail is a total of 1.8 miles out and back and allows hikers to get up close and personal to the Tower. If you want to rest your legs, there are plenty of benches along the trail to sit back and enjoy the sweeping views of the surrounding grasslands.

Fishing

Once you’ve explored Devils Tower, don’t forget to pencil in some time for fishing in the surrounding areas. These fishing holes are the perfect way to relax and soak up the stunning scenery with the family.

A view of the Belle Fourche River lined with grass and trees.

Belle Fourche River

  • Meaning “beautiful fork” in French, Belle Fourche River lives up to its name. Backdropped by red sandstone cliffs, this small river packs a punch in both the history and angler departments.

Cook Lake

  • Cook Lake is a picturesque lake lined with mature trees in the Black Hills National Forest. Drop a line for rainbow and brown trout, sunfish, and catfish.
A view of the Keyhole Reservoir lined with rocks and trees.

Keyhole Reservoir

  • Situated within Keyhole State Park, Keyhole Reservoir boasts a diverse fishing climate. Some of Wyoming’s largest fish have been caught here. Are you up for the challenge?

Rock Climbing

Devils Tower’s parallel cracks attract rock climbers worldwide, making it one of the finest crack climbing areas in North America. All routes on Devils Tower are Class 5, meaning the climbs are difficult, technical, and not recommended for novice climbers. Be sure to register before and after your climb at the visitor center. If you’re planning a trip in June, be mindful of the voluntary climbing closure.

An upwards view of the Durrance Route at Devils Tower National Monument.

Durrance Route

  • One of the oldest routes, Durrance is one of the 50 classic climbs in North America. This 5.7 is often considered more difficult than its rating by modern climbers.

Soler

  • A crowd favorite, Soler is a 5.9 climb, first traversed by Toni Soler in 1951. It was the first aid climb and the first aid climb to be freed.
A person climbing the El Cracko Diablo Route at Devils Tower National Monument.

El Cracko Diablo

  • Established by Rod Johnson and Pat Padden in 1973, this 5.8 climb is a classic splitter hand-fist crack.
The words, "Places to Stay" layered over an image of a hotel room.

Top Places to Stay

Whether you’re planning on sleeping under the stars or cozying up at a cabin or lodge, these recommendations will help you find your perfect place to stay near Devils Tower.

Camping

Camping offers a sense of nostalgia and allows you to unplug and recharge in nature with friends and family.

People and parked cars at the Devils Tower KOA campsite and Devils Tower National Monument in the background.

Devils Tower KOA

  • Located near the Belle Fourche River, Devils Tower KOA is home to a full-service restaurant, gift shop, pool, and a snack bar that is sure to satisfy all your sugary cravings.

Belle Fourche Campground

  • Nestled amongst large cottonwood trees, Belle Fourche River Campground is the only campground at the monument. It is a 46-site campground with four ADA sites and three tent-only group sites. First come, first served.
A raised flag beside a sign on a grassy area at Devils Tower View Campground.

Devils Tower View

  • Located just three miles from Devils Tower National Monument, Devils Tower View offers year-round camping, a gift shop, and a café. 

Cabin, Lodges & Hotels

If camping isn’t your style, these cabins, lodges, and hotels are other great options to rest your head without sacrificing the beautiful view.

Cabins and trees at the Devils Tower Black Hills KOA and Devils Tower National Monument in the background.

Devils Tower/Black Hills KOA

  • For those wanting to upgrade from camping, Devils Tower/Black Hills KOA offers cozy cabins with private decks, perfect for end-of-day relaxing.  

Devils Tower Lodge

  • Open May through October, Devils Tower Lodge is a rustic bed-and-breakfast ideal for romantic weekends. While stargazing, treat your muscles to a well-deserved soak in your private hot tub.
Outside view of the lodgings and lawns at Sawin' Logs Inn.

Sawin' Logs Inn

  • Calling wildlife-watchers! Nestled on the edge of the Black Hills, Sawin’ Logs Inn sits on 27 acres of land, where deer, chipmunks, rabbits, and various birds call home.
The words, "Places to Eat" layered over an image of a chef plating a meal in restaurant kitchen.

Top Places to EAT

With all that hiking, fishing, and rock climbing, you’re sure to work up an appetite! These restaurants near Devils Tower will help fuel you for your next adventure.

Breakfast Restaurants Near Devils Tower

Start your morning off right at Ponderosa Cafe.

Ponderosa Cafe

Conveniently located off Main Street in Hulett, Ponderosa Cafe honors hometown hospitality with a seasonal menu and a Wild West atmosphere.

Lunch Restaurants Near Devils Tower

Grab a cold one, sit back, and enjoy a mid-day refuel at Red Rock Cafe.

Red Rock Cafe

It’s time to get your grub on! Try Red Rock Cafe’s famous Cowboy Burger or Jalapeño Cream Cheese Burger with all the fixings.

Dinner Restaurants Near Devils Tower

After a day exploring, settle in at Devils Tower Gulch for all-American classics.

 Devils Tower Gulch

Located at the base of Devils Tower, this casual, family-friendly restaurant serves up incredible views and equally delicious bites.

Where to Park at Devils Tower

With limited availability, parking during peak summer season can be tricky. These parking recommendations will help you be prepared and find a spot.

An illustrated icon of a car.

Visitor Center Lot

This paved lot and lower gravel lot are the best places to park if you have a vehicle under 19 feet long. If you plan to climb, opt for the lower gravel lot.

An illustrated icon of a car.

Picnic Area Lot

If you’re driving a longer vehicle or hauling a trailer, this paved lot is best. Don’t forget to stop at the Circle of Sacred Smoke sculpture, too!

An illustrated icon of a car.

Joyner Ridge Trailhead Lot

This small gravel parking area is great for vehicles under 19 feet long. Please note that access to this lot is a narrow dirt road with limited turn-around space.

Frequently Asked Questions About Devils Tower National Monument

Do you still have questions about Devils Tower that didn’t get answered? Find your answer here!

How to get to Devils Tower
The address of Devils Tower National Monument is WY-110, Devils Tower, Wyoming, 82714. Devils Tower is accessible via Wyoming Hwy. 24 and is nine miles south of Hulett, WY.
Can you see Devils Tower without paying?
While visiting the monument is an unmatched experience, if you’d prefer to see it from a distance, it is visible from Wyoming Hwy. 24. Be sure to check out the designated state historic marker 1.7 miles south of WY-110 (Main Park Road), too.
Are dogs allowed at Devils Tower?
Your furry friend is allowed in the park, but please note they are not permitted on trails or in buildings.
How close can you get to Devils Tower?
Hiking the Tower Trail is your best opportunity to get up close to the Tower. Remember to practice Leave No Trace and never carve into the rock.
How to get to Devils Tower
The address of Devils Tower National Monument is WY-110, Devils Tower, Wyoming, 82714. Devils Tower is accessible via Wyoming Hwy. 24 and is nine miles south of Hulett, WY.
Can you see Devils Tower without paying?
While visiting the monument is an unmatched experience, if you’d prefer to see it from a distance, it is visible from Wyoming Hwy. 24. Be sure to check out the designated state historic marker 1.7 miles south of WY-110 (Main Park Road), too.
Are dogs allowed at Devils Tower?
Your furry friend is allowed in the park, but please note they are not permitted on trails or in buildings.
How close can you get to Devils Tower?
Hiking the Tower Trail is your best opportunity to get up close to the Tower. Remember to practice Leave No Trace and never carve into the rock.
How to get to Devils Tower
The address of Devils Tower National Monument is WY-110, Devils Tower, Wyoming, 82714. Devils Tower is accessible via Wyoming Hwy. 24 and is nine miles south of Hulett, WY.
Can you see Devils Tower without paying?
While visiting the monument is an unmatched experience, if you’d prefer to see it from a distance, it is visible from Wyoming Hwy. 24. Be sure to check out the designated state historic marker 1.7 miles south of WY-110 (Main Park Road), too.
Are dogs allowed at Devils Tower?
Your furry friend is allowed in the park, but please note they are not permitted on trails or in buildings.
How close can you get to Devils Tower?
Hiking the Tower Trail is your best opportunity to get up close to the Tower. Remember to practice Leave No Trace and never carve into the rock.
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