Rising abruptly from the rolling plains of northeastern Wyoming, Devils Tower is a sight that stops you in your tracks. Its sheer vertical columns stretch skyward, defying the natural flow of the surrounding landscape. For centuries, this geologic wonder has inspired awe, curiosity, and reverence. But Devils Tower is more than just a natural phenomenon—it’s a sacred site, steeped in the myths and traditions of Indigenous tribes who have called this land home for generations.

Let’s unravel the mysteries of Devils Tower, from its fiery volcanic origins to the spiritual stories that keep its legacy alive.

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Born of Fire: The Geology Behind the Tower

Devils Tower is the hardened heart of a long-extinct volcano. Around 50 million years ago, magma pushed its way upward but cooled and solidified before reaching the surface. Over millennia, erosion stripped away the softer surrounding rock, leaving behind the towering structure we see today.

What makes Devils Tower so unique are its columnar joints—vertical cracks that formed as the cooling magma contracted. These columns, some over 600 feet tall, create the striking ribbed appearance of the Tower, making it one of the most dramatic geological formations in North America.

Scientists continue to debate the specifics of its formation, but one thing is certain: Devils Tower is a monument to the immense power of Earth’s geological processes.

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Sacred Stories: The Spiritual Significance of Devils Tower

Long before it was a national monument, Devils Tower was—and remains—a sacred site for Indigenous peoples, including the Lakota, Cheyenne, Arapaho, Crow, and Kiowa tribes. Each has its own name for the Tower, often reflecting its cultural and spiritual significance.

Among the most well-known stories is the Lakota legend of Mato Tipila (“Bear Lodge”), which tells of a group of children who were chased by a giant bear. As they prayed for help, the ground beneath them rose into the sky, lifting them out of the bear’s reach. The bear’s claws left deep gouges in the rock as it tried to climb, forming the vertical columns seen today.

For these tribes, the Tower is more than a physical landmark—it’s a bridge between the earthly and the divine, a place where prayers are carried skyward. Even today, it’s common to see prayer bundles and cloths tied to trees near the base, symbols of ongoing spiritual practice.

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A Monument to Exploration

Declared the United States’ first national monument in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt, Devils Tower has long captured the imagination of adventurers and scientists alike.

Climbing the Tower

The vertical columns that make Devils Tower so visually stunning also make it a climber’s paradise. With routes ranging from beginner to expert, it’s a bucket-list destination for rock climbers from around the globe.

However, climbing is discouraged during June, a month of cultural significance when many tribes hold ceremonies at the Tower. This voluntary closure reflects the ongoing effort to balance recreation with respect for its spiritual importance.

Hiking the Base

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the Tower Trail offers a 1.3-mile loop around the base, providing stunning views of the columns and the surrounding pine forest. Interpretive signs along the way share insights into the Tower’s geology and cultural history.

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Wildlife at the Tower

Devils Tower isn’t just a geological marvel—it’s a thriving ecosystem. The surrounding area is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including:

• Prairie Dogs: Watch for these lively creatures in the nearby prairie dog towns, where their antics provide endless entertainment.
• Golden Eagles: These majestic birds often nest on the cliffs of the Tower, soaring gracefully against its dramatic backdrop.
• Deer and Elk: Frequent visitors to the surrounding meadows, especially during the cooler hours of dawn and dusk.

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Preservation and Respect

As with any natural wonder, preserving Devils Tower requires careful stewardship. The National Park Service works closely with tribal leaders to ensure that the Tower remains both a protected geological site and a place of cultural significance.

Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, respect climbing restrictions, and honor the spiritual practices of Indigenous peoples by leaving prayer bundles undisturbed.

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Devils Tower: A Wonder Worth Knowing

Standing at the base of Devils Tower, it’s impossible not to feel its pull. The Tower is a paradox—both solid and transcendent, ancient and ever-evolving. Its columns tell a story of fiery origins, while its presence in tribal legends reminds us of the deep connection between land and culture.

Whether you come to climb its sheer faces, hike its trails, or simply stand in awe of its grandeur, Devils Tower offers more than just a view. It offers perspective—a reminder of the forces that shape our world and the stories that give it meaning.