Devils Tower National Monument

Devils Tower is a distinctive igneous monolith rising above the prairie in northeastern Wyoming and was designated as a U.S. national monument in 1906. Its vertical columns and solitary profile make it one of the most recognizable natural landmarks in the United States.

The site is prized for its geology and recreational opportunities - the tower’s summit elevation is 5,112 feet above sea level and the formation rises roughly 867 feet above the surrounding terrain. A 1.3-mile Tower Trail circles the base and provides close-up views of the columnar jointing and climbers on the routes above.

Geologically the tower represents an igneous intrusion exposed by erosion; the surrounding landscape and talus slopes reveal the erosional processes that left the core standing. The monument also holds longstanding cultural and spiritual importance for several Native American tribes, who continue to hold ceremonies and request respectful behavior on and around the feature.

The monument sits in Crook County in northeastern Wyoming, managed by the National Park Service and located near the small town of Hulett. Road access is by the monument’s entrance roads off regional highways and the site functions as a visitor hub for the surrounding prairie and Black Hills region.

• First U.S. national monument: Designated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906 as the first U.S. national monument.
• Geologic and cultural significance: The rock displays prominent columnar jointing and is a central sacred feature for several Native American tribes who maintain cultural ties to the site.

What to See#

• Visitor Center: A staffed National Park Service visitor center at the monument entrance that provides exhibits, orientation, permit information for climbers, and a short film about the site.
• Tower Trail: A 1.3-mile loop called the Tower Trail that circles the base and offers close views of the columnar jointing and talus slopes.
• Summit and climbing routes: The summit and technical climbing routes attract rock climbers; the tower’s summit elevation is 5,112 feet above sea level and the formation rises roughly 867 feet above the surrounding terrain.

• Go at sunrise for the quietest experience and best soft light on the tower; early mornings often mean emptier parking and trails.
• Walk the full Tower Trail loop around the base (about 1-1.5 miles) to see the formation from multiple angles and to encounter local wildlife and prairie views.
• If you plan to climb, stop at the visitor center first for current climbing regulations, route conditions and any seasonal restrictions or recommended practices from rangers.