Devils Tower rises from the Wyoming prairie like nothing else in the region, a massive column of igneous rock ringed by pine forest, and it was the first national monument in the United States, proclaimed in 1906. Many tribes hold the tower sacred, and it carries names such as Bear Lodge in Lakota and other languages. It lies in northeastern Wyoming, a day trip from Deadwood, and it makes a striking contrast to the green Hills: open sky, red rock and a tower that seems taller the closer you get. The classic visit is the paved Tower Trail, a loop of about a mile and a third around the base, with views up the columns and out across the Belle Fourche River valley. A prairie dog town near the entrance is a hit with kids, and a visitor center and ranger programs add context. Entrance is by vehicle fee, with separate rates for motorcycles and for those on foot or bicycle, and the National Park Service notes that the entrance station accepts cards only and no cash. America the Beautiful passes cover the fee.
Plan the day as a full outing. From Deadwood the drive is roughly an hour and a half to two hours each way, so allow a long day with the trip out, a couple of hours at the tower and a meal on the way back. A guided day tour from Rapid City is another option for those who would rather not drive, though the Tower is more commonly paired with Deadwood and Spearfish in a northern Hills loop. Check the weather, because summer storms and winter closures can affect the road and the trail.
Respect for the cultural setting is part of the visit. Many tribes consider the tower sacred, and the National Park Service asks visitors to stay on trails, avoid prayer bundles and treat the site respectfully. Climbers are asked to voluntarily avoid the tower in June each year out of respect for ceremonies, and they should check current guidance and any registration rules. Even if you do not climb, you can watch climbers through binoculars on a good day.
Be aware of crowds in August. Rally week brings very long lines at the entrance, and the Wednesday ride to the Tower is a well-known event, so avoid the entrance during peak rally traffic unless you are part of it. Mornings and shoulder seasons are quieter. Bring water, sun protection and layers, pack a picnic and plan time at the prairie dog town. Pair the trip with Spearfish Canyon on the way back for a full day.
What to expect
The experience
A day trip to a Wyoming national monument with a paved loop trail, a prairie dog town, a visitor center and views of the tower.
Best time
Morning and shoulder seasons; avoid rally week crowds at the entrance.
How long
A full day from Deadwood including the drive.
Tips
Bring a card, since the entrance does not take cash, carry water and layers and respect the tribal significance.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a Wyoming landmark added to a Black Hills trip.
- Families
- Excellent; the loop trail and prairie dogs suit kids.
- Couples
- A dramatic landscape and a long scenic drive together.
- Pair with
- Spearfish Canyon and Deadwood.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
How much does Devils Tower cost?+
The National Park Service charges a per-vehicle fee, with lower rates for motorcycles and for people on foot or bicycle. Entrance is cards only, so check current rates before you go.
How far is it from Deadwood?+
Roughly an hour and a half to two hours each way, so plan a full day.
Can I climb the tower?+
Climbing is allowed under the park's rules, but climbers are asked to voluntarily avoid the tower in June out of respect for tribal ceremonies. Check current rules.
Is it good for children?+
Yes. The paved Tower Trail is easy, and the prairie dog town is a hit.
Should I avoid rally week?+
Yes if you can. The National Park Service warns of very long entrance lines in rally week.
