2021-01-15 05:52:56
Many People, Many Stories, One Place Anchoring the northeast corner of the Black Hills of Wyoming is Devils Tower National Monument. In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt designated it as the country’s first national monument. ABOUT THE PARK Devils Tower rises 1,267 feet above the picturesque Belle Fourche River Valley — a geologic oddity of epic proportions. Also known as Bear Lodge, the tower is sacred to over two dozen Native American tribes. Many ceremonies are still held at the tower today, including sweat lodges, sun dances and prayer offerings. VISITOR CENTER The Visitor Center has interpretive exhibits that describe the park’s natural and cultural history, a bookstore and souvenir shop. For Devils Tower National Monument business listings, turn to page 142. Things to Do Hiking Take advantage of all the monument offers on one of the five trails in the park. Tower Trail, the most popular route, takes you along a 1.3-mile path around the base and offers spectacular views of the tower. Joyner Ridge, South Side and Valley View trails each have different perspectives of the tower. Rock Climbing Hundreds of parallel cracks divide the stone pillar into large hexagonal columns, making it a premier traditional crack climbing area. Anyone wishing to climb above the boulder field needs to register before their climb. Please note, there is a voluntary climbing closure during June. Ranger Programs During the park’s summer season, park staff and special guest speakers cover topics related to the monument’s natural and cultural history. Programs include guided walks along Tower Trail and short talks outside the visitor center. Night Sky Viewing Learn about the night sky, one of the many resources protected by Devils Tower National Monument, during the stargazing programs the park hosts throughout the year. Prairie Dog Town Prairie dogs are one of the most visible and appreciated animals at Devils Tower. Use the pullouts along the Main Park Road near the prairie dog town to observe their bustling environment as they entertain you with their antics. Camping Stay overnight at the park. Camping is available in established sites at the Belle Fourche River Campground and Devils Tower KOA.
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