Ranger programs are typically offered during the park's summer season, from Memorial Day to Labor Day (late May to early September). Programs often include guided walks along the Tower Trail, short talks outside the visitor center, and evening programs at the campground amphitheater.
Looking for a traditional hiking experience in the park? Check out this 2.8 mile loop around the Tower! Take in sights of the Tower from different angles and enjoy the beauty of the Belle Fourche River valley. As you climb up and down between the visitor center parking lot and the river valley, experience the geology of the park up close! Escape the crowds on the Tower Trail and take in sweeping vistas of the park and surrounding land.
Enjoy a walk around the base of one of the most unique geologic formations in the world! Learn about the natural and cultural history of Devils Tower National Monument, from theories about how it formed to the connections modern tribes maintain with the site today.
South Side Trail offers an easy stroll through the prairie dog town or a convenient connector to other parts of the park. Catch the trail from the park amphitheater, Red Beds Trail, or prairie dog town pullouts. South Side Trail is a great way to reach the visitor center from the picnic area and campground, allowing you to skip the visitor center parking lot crowds.
Take a stroll through the prairie dog town with scenic views of the Belle Fourche River and Devils Tower. Valley View Trail is relatively level and short, perfect for kids or a quick leg stretch. Valley View Trail can also be used to connect the campground or picnic area to other parts of the park.
Joyner Ridge provides the space and serenity to enjoy nature without the crowds. Visit a quieter part of Devils Tower by hiking the 1.5-mile (2.4 km) Joyner Ridge Trail. Take in scenic views of the Tower or visit at night to stargaze in the secluded northern part of the park. Experience this trail in spring to spot blooming wildflowers along the trail edge.
Technical rock climbing is allowed in the monument. All persons planning to climb or scramble above the boulder field are required to register before their climb and check in when they return. Climbing permits are available at the kiosk in the parking area or at the visitor center.
Devils Tower is visible through the Circle of Sacred Smoke Sculpture
NPS
More Things to Do
Circle of Sacred Smoke Sculpture
Located near the picnic area, the Circle of Sacred Smoke, by sculptor Junkyu Muto, honors the American people as a gesture of world peace. The sculpture is designed to help raise visitor awareness of the importance of Devils Tower to over twenty affiliated tribes. The sculpture, one in a planned series of seven, represents the first puff of smoke from a newly lit pipe and placed to frame the Tower when viewed from its location across from the picnic area.
Junior Ranger booklets may be obtained at the visitor center. We recommend at least one hour to complete the program. Upon completion of the booklet, Junior Rangers will be officially sworn in and given a special badge. Junior Ranger patches may be purchased in the bookstore.
Winter activities
Caution - trails are not maintained during the winter months. The road to the visitor center, picnic area and Circle of Sacred Smoke sculpture are open year around.
Location:Devils Tower prairie dog town / Belle Fourche River hub
Season:Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Time Of Day:Day, Dawn, Dusk
Have you ever heard a prairie dog yip? Or seen a fox with its kits? There’s lots going on at the prairie dog town! Take some time to enjoy the wildlife in the park. Don’t forget to look up! The prairie dog town is a great place to spot turkey vultures, peregrine falcons, and other birds flying around the Tower. Use the pullouts along the Main Park Road near prairie dog town to observe this bustling environment.
Joyner Ridge offers wide open spaces and little light pollution – the perfect combination for optimal stargazing. Set up your telescope, photograph the night sky with Devils Tower, or simply look up. There’s no wrong way to stargaze!
After a long day of exploring, stop by the Devils Tower picnic area to enjoy your lunch! The Devils Tower picnic area provides visitors with a serene experience of the Tower. Located near the Bell Fourche Campground, take a walk under the cottonwood trees with your leashed pet or spend the afternoon enjoying the views.
