Title: How Long Is The Hike Around Devils Tower: A Family-Friendly Adventure
Hey, fellow explorers! Dane here, from Double Decker Fam. Today, I want to share our latest adventure – hiking around Devils Tower, a geological marvel and a sacred site of multiple Native American tribes, right here in the United States.
As we travel the country in our magnificent converted Double Decker RV with my wife and our six amazing kiddos, we’re always hunting for new adventures that are accessible and enjoyable for the whole family. Hiking around Devils Tower? It’s a definite check on our list!
Understanding Devils Tower – A Cultural and Natural Beacon
Before I get into the details of the hike, let’s talk about Devils Tower itself. This imposing columnar structure, also known by its traditional names like Bear Lodge, rises dramatically out of the rolling prairies of northeastern Wyoming (source: National Park Service). It was declared the first United States National Monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906.
The Hike: Duration and What to Expect
Now, for what you’re really here for – the hike! The primary trail, the Tower Trail, is a 1.3-mile loop that encircles the base of Devil’s Tower. With little elevation change, it’s perfect for families with kids. You won’t need to lug the twins up a mountainside on this trek, I promise! Now, how long does it take to hike this loop?
The average hiker completes the Tower Trail in about 45 minutes to an hour. But here’s the deal: with a big brood like ours, consisting of littles with tiny legs and big ones with a million questions, it took us closer to 1.5 hours. And that includes stops for water breaks, photo ops (because, social media influencer life), and to let the kiddos marvel at the prairie dogs in the surrounding burrows!
Remember, it’s not just a walk in the park. There are interpretive signs along the path that provide a captivating glimpse into the Tower’s geological and cultural stories, which means you’ll likely linger along the way. Add in snack times, and you’ve got an afternoon activity.
What You Should Bring
Now that you’re ready to check out Devils Tower, here’s what we suggest you pack for the trip:
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Proper footwear is crucial. Sure, it’s a relatively flat trail, but those stones can be a little tricky!
- Water: Hydration is key, even for a short hike. Every member of the family should have their own water.
- Snacks: With six kids, snacks are a given. We mix it between healthy options and small treats.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses – the Wyoming sun doesn’t play.
- Camera or Smartphone: You’ll want to capture those memories and maybe snag a new profile pic with Devils Tower in the background.
Making the Most of Your Visit
To make the most out of your visit, timing is everything. We started our trek mid-morning to avoid the hottest part of the day and the afternoon crowds. Plus, the morning light against the Tower provides for some epic photographs. If you’re an avid bird watcher, earlier in the day can yield some great bird sightings as well.
Other Activities in the Area
Apart from the Tower Trail, Devils Tower has other paths to explore if your family’s up for it. The Red Beds Trail is about a 3-mile hike with slightly more challenging terrain and some elevation changes. It might not be the best fit if you’re juggling toddlers, though.
Moms, dads, and guardians looking to instill a love for rock climbing in their children will find Devils Tower fascinating – it’s a popular climbing spot. But remember, this is something to observe or try only with experienced climbers and proper gear!
Some Practical Advice
Before I wrap this up, let me drop some quick knowledge nuggets:
- Stay on the Path: Devils Tower is a fragile natural wonder, and its cultural significance to many Native American tribes is immense. Respect the monument by staying on designated trails.
- Wildlife: It’s their home, we’re just visitors. Bears are unlikely, but snakes? Sure. Keep an eye out and give animals their space.
- Respect Native American Cultural Practices: This site is sacred. There are periods when climbing is discouraged, and ceremonies might be taking place. The National Park Service can provide guidance on this (source: Climbing Closures).
Conclusion
Our trek around Devils Tower was not just about exercise or Instagrammable moments (although we had plenty of those). It was a chance to connect with American history, both natural and indigenous, and to teach our kids about both respect and awe for the places we visit.
Whether you’re a family of hikers or just looking for a simple walk to stretch your legs, the hike around Devils Tower will not disappoint. Prepare, respect, and most importantly, enjoy every step of the way. Who knows, maybe we’ll catch you on the trail on our next loop around America in our Double Decker RV!
Safe travels, and remember to check us out on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok for all our road trip updates and tips.
‘Til next time, keep trekking,
Dane – Double Decker Fam