Devils Tower Wyoming: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Introduction
Devils Tower, located in northeastern Wyoming, is a unique natural wonder that draws visitors from all over the world. This massive volcanic rock formation rises 867 feet above the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and nature lovers. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, and much more to help you plan your trip to Devils Tower.
Top Attractions
Devils Tower National Monument
The most popular attraction at Devils Tower is the national monument itself. Visitors can hike around the base of the tower, take guided tours, and learn about the cultural and geological significance of this unique formation.
Wildlife Watching
The area around Devils Tower is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, elk, pronghorn antelope, and prairie dogs. Visitors can observe these animals in their natural habitat by taking guided tours, hiking, or driving through nearby wildlife reserves.
Hulett Museum
The Hulett Museum, located in the nearby town of Hulett, showcases the history and culture of the area. Visitors can learn about the Native American tribes that have called this area home, as well as the early pioneers and settlers who helped shape the region.
Hidden Gems
Devils Tower Trading Post
The Devils Tower Trading Post is a unique gift shop located just outside the national monument. Visitors can browse a wide selection of souvenirs, Native American art, and handmade crafts.
The Wyoming Ale Works
The Wyoming Ale Works, located in the nearby town of Sundance, is a microbrewery that offers a variety of locally brewed beers. Visitors can sample the beers in the taproom or take a tour of the brewery.
Keyhole State Park
Located about an hour’s drive from Devils Tower, Keyhole State Park is a hidden gem that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of the nearby reservoir.
Food Scene
The Tower View Restaurant
The Tower View Restaurant, located inside the national monument, offers a variety of American-style cuisine and stunning views of the tower. Visitors can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
The Ponderosa Cafe
The Ponderosa Cafe, located just outside the national monument, is a popular spot for homemade pies and other sweet treats. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and other American-style diner fare.
The Bear Lodge Resort
The Bear Lodge Resort, located about 30 minutes from Devils Tower, offers a variety of dining options, including a steakhouse, a pizza restaurant, and a cafe. Visitors can enjoy a variety of cuisine in a rustic mountain setting.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Camping
Camping is a budget-friendly option for visitors to Devils Tower. The national monument offers several campgrounds, as well as backcountry camping options. Visitors can also find affordable camping options at nearby state parks and other campgrounds.
Self-Guided Tours
Visitors can save money by taking self-guided tours of the national monument and other attractions. The monument offers a variety of brochures and maps that visitors can use to explore the area on their own.
Picnics
Visitors can save money on meals by packing a picnic lunch or dinner. The national monument offers several picnic areas with stunning views of the tower.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
The national monument offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the area around the tower. The trails range in difficulty and offer stunning views of the tower and the surrounding landscape.
Climbing
Devils Tower is a popular destination for rock climbers from around the world. Visitors can take guided climbs or climb on their own in designated areas.
Mountain Biking
The area around Devils Tower offers several mountain biking trails that range in difficulty. Visitors can bring their own bikes or rent them from nearby shops.
Family-Friendly Activities
Junior Ranger Program
The national monument offers a Junior Ranger program that allows kids to learn about the area’s history, geology, and wildlife. Kids can earn badges and certificates by completing various activities and attending ranger-led programs.
Prairie Dog Town
The prairie dog town, located near the national monument, is a fun and educational stop for families. Visitors can observe these playful animals in their natural habitat.
Medicine Wheel
The Medicine Wheel, located about two hours from Devils Tower, is a sacred Native American site that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can hike to the site and learn about its cultural significance.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Devils Tower UFO Sightings
Devils Tower has long been associated with UFO sightings and other paranormal activity. Visitors can explore this fascinating aspect of the area’s history by visiting local museums and attending UFO-themed events.
The Vore Buffalo Jump
The Vore Buffalo Jump, located about 45 minutes from Devils Tower, is a unique archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the area’s prehistoric past. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the Native American tribes that used it to hunt buffalo.
The Black Hills
The Black Hills, located about an hour’s drive from Devils Tower, offer a variety of off-the-beaten-path experiences, including hiking, rock climbing, and exploring abandoned mining towns.
Natural Wonders
The Belle Fourche River
The Belle Fourche River flows through the area around Devils Tower and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and other water activities on the river.
The Red Beds
The Red Beds, located near the national monument, are a unique geological formation that offers a glimpse into the area’s ancient past. Visitors can hike through the area and learn about its geological and cultural significance.
The Badlands
The Badlands, located about an hour’s drive from Devils Tower, are a unique natural wonder that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by car and learn about its geological and cultural significance.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Longhorn Saloon and Grill
The Longhorn Saloon and Grill, located in nearby Hulett, is a popular spot for live music and dancing. Visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks and pub fare while taking in the lively atmosphere.
The Sundance Bar
The Sundance Bar, located in the nearby town of Sundance, is a popular spot for karaoke and other live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks and pub fare in a lively setting.
The Belle Fourche River Campground
The Belle Fourche River Campground, located near the national monument, offers a variety of nightlife options, including campfire gatherings, stargazing, and ghost stories.
Local Markets
The Farmers Market
The Farmers Market, located in the nearby town of Sundance, offers a variety of locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and other unique items. Visitors can browse the market and meet local farmers and artisans.
The Hulett Art and Craft Fair
The Hulett Art and Craft Fair, held annually in August, is a popular event that showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople. Visitors can browse a wide selection of handmade crafts, jewelry, and other unique items.
The Spearfish Farmers Market
The Spearfish Farmers Market, located about an hour’s drive from Devils Tower, is a popular spot for locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and other unique items. Visitors can browse the market and meet local farmers and artisans.
Beaches and Mountains
Bear Lodge Resort
The Bear Lodge Resort, located about 30 minutes from Devils Tower, offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Keyhole State Park
Keyhole State Park, located about an hour’s drive from Devils Tower, offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and camping. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of the nearby reservoir.
The Black Hills
The Black Hills, located about an hour’s drive from Devils Tower, offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and exploring abandoned mining towns. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
Cultural Immersion