Devil’s Tower is an awe-inspiring sight, rising more than 1200 feet above the river valley for all to marvel at. Not only is it a stunning geological formation, but it also holds spiritual significance to many. One of the best ways to explore Devil’s Tower and its tranquil atmosphere is by hiking alongside its towering face to get a unique perspective on this incredible destination.
Visitors can take the South Side Trail or the Valley View Trail, which only takes 20-30 minutes of hiking. But if you’d like to soak in the beauty of Devil’s Tower, consider taking a longer route on Red Beds Trial, which will take approximately two and a half hours.
Around Devil’s Tower, there are five interconnected hiking trails. All offer breathtaking views but highlight various facets of the tower and the valley. This article will discuss in depth all these trials and how much longer it takes to hike around Devil’s Tower via each trail.
Devil’s Tower Hikes
Here’s all you need to know about these renowned hikes.
Tower Trial
Devil’s Tower, a sacred site of the Great Plains Indigenous people, offers an unforgettable experience on its two-kilometer Tower Trail. This paved loop provides a pleasant stroll around the imposing tower’s base with a few high spots.
Yet, it is relatively easy to hike. Forty-five minutes should be enough to complete it. Check out the interpretive panels explaining Devil’s Tower’s fascinating geology and history! You may also spot bundles or prayer cloths fastened to trees during your hike, symbolizing Devil’s Tower’s tribal ties.
Be cautious when climbing in the boulder field since you need a permit for this activity. Due to its popularity, Devil’s Tower can get very crowded on weekends and even during the daytime: try going there early in the morning or late at night for a more peaceful experience!
Watch this video to get a glimpse of what it feels when going for a hike at Tower Trial:
Red Bed Trail
The 2.8-mile Red Bed Trail can circumnavigate Devil’s Tower. With an elevation difference of 450 feet and picturesque views around every corner, this trail is perfect for a hike lasting 2.5 hours.
Enjoy the continually changing scenery of prairie grassland, ponderosa pine trees, sandstone, and mud in warm shades of orange, yellow, and brown. Listen carefully as you walk for potential wildlife sightings!
To access the Devil’s Tower Red Bed Trail from Devil’s Tower Visitor Center parking lot, follow any other park trails – they will eventually connect to the main trail loop.
Joyner Ridge Trail
The tower is entirely circled by this 2.8-mile (4.5-kilometer) loop trail, which also offers sweeping views of the Belle Fourche River Valley. It requires about 2.5 hours to hike and has some steep sections with an elevation difference of 450 feet.
Observe the vast prairie, ponderosa pine forest, sandstone, and mud that are all vividly colored. You might spot wildlife if you stroll quietly.
From the visitor center parking lot, you can access this trail. All other park trails are connected to it.
South Side Trail and Valley View Trail
These two small trails connect to the Red Beds Trail and are 0.6 miles (1 km) long. Where South Side connects to Red Beds, there is a problematic uphill slope. Valley View stretches along the river and is essentially flat.
Both trails pass through the prairie dog settlement and start at the amphitheater close to Belle Fourche River Campsite.
Hiking Suggestion If You Are Short On Time
Suppose you don’t have much time, a quick hike to see the monument’s highlights. Take the Valley View Trail from the amphitheater to Red Beds. Walking to the intersection with South Side Trail, turn left onto Red Beds. Visit the amphitheater once more. See the prairie dog settlement, the Belle Fourche River valley, and excellent tower views on this 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) tour.
Safety Precautions
Devil’s Tower is an amazing place for a hike, and following some important safety tips can make the journey even more enjoyable.
Bringing plenty of water, wearing comfortable walking shoes, and purchasing trekking poles are all essential for a successful trip. Be sure to wear the appropriate hiking clothing and keep an eye out for poisonous plants like poison ivy and rattlesnakes. Take your time on the trails to stay energized and energized.
Unfortunately, Devil’s Tower does not allow pets along the trails, so if you take your pet, you might have to adjust your plans accordingly!
Conclusion
Devil’s Tower is an awe-inspiring geological formation and spiritual site, best explored through hiking along its towering face. Visitors can take the South Side Trail or the Valley View Trail, which only takes 20-30 minutes of hiking, or consider taking a longer route on Red Beds Trail, which will take approximately two and a half hours.
Whatever path you plan to follow, always follow the safety precautions and remain safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Climb Devil’s Tower’s Peak?
You can only climb the Devil’s Tower’s peak if and when you don’t have an official registration. Almost vertical is the tower. It is possible to ascend to the extreme. Every year, some 4,000 people climb the tower.
Parallel rock fissures in Devil’s Tower’s multitude of vertical columns give rise to this structure. The tower has become one of North America’s top locations for classic crack climbing.
It is necessary to get hiking registration prior, which is always checked on the day of hiking. Apart from the regular entrance price, there is no additional fee charged for climbing. Remember, it is prohibited to climb in June.
Can I See The Devil’s Tower From Outside The Park?
Yes. WY Highway 24 offers a view of the tower. A state historical marker is located 1.7 miles south of WY-110 (Main Park Road).
Where Can I Hike In The Devil’s Tower?
Numerous hiking trails lead to Devil’s Tower. The Tower Trail, a 1.3-mile paved hike that begins in the visitor center parking lot, is the most prominent.
Are Pets Allowed At The Devil’s Tower?
Pets are welcome in the park. However, they are not allowed in structures or pathways. Pets must be restrained on a no more than 6 feet long leash to be taken for a walk in parking lots, alongside streets, at picnic areas, or at the campground.