Devil tower wyoming

Devil's Tower, the iconic geological monument in Wyoming, USA, rises 386 meters above the landscape. Learn about its formation and significance.

About this subject

Devil's Tower is an impressive rock formation located in northeastern Wyoming, USA. Rising 386 meters (1,267 feet) from its base to the summit, this towering structure draws visitors from around the globe. Geologically, it is a laccolith or igneous intrusion, formed about 50 million years ago when molten magma cooled and solidified beneath the surface. Over time, erosion removed the softer sedimentary rocks, exposing the distinctive hexagonal basalt columns that characterize the tower.

The site holds deep cultural significance for several Native American tribes, including the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Kiowa, who regard Devil's Tower as a sacred place. Its Lakota name is 'Mato Tipila', meaning 'Bear's Lodge' or 'Bear's House'. A legend tells of girls fleeing a bear and being saved by a rising rock, leaving claw marks on its sides. In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt designated Devil's Tower as the first National Monument in the United States, protecting the area.

Rock climbing has been a popular activity since the late 19th century. The first documented ascent was made in 1893 by William Rogers and Willard Ripley using a wooden ladder. Today, there are over 200 climbing routes, but visitors must respect a voluntary closure in June for tribal ceremonies. The tower also gained fame for its appearance in the film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind' (1977).

For visitors, Devil's Tower National Monument offers hiking trails, a visitor center, and a campground. The best times to visit are spring and fall, avoiding summer heat. The geological phenomenon of columnar jointing, with columns up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in diameter, is one of the world's finest examples of this type of fracturing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called Devil's Tower?

The name 'Devil's Tower' was given by an 1875 expedition after a mistranslation of a Native term. However, the tower is known by many indigenous names, such as 'Mato Tipila' ('Bear's Lodge') by the Lakota.

Who first climbed Devil's Tower?

The first documented ascent was in 1893 by local ranchers William Rogers and Willard Ripley. They used a wooden ladder driven into the rock, which is still visible in some sections.

Can tourists visit Devil's Tower?

Yes, Devil's Tower National Monument is open to the public. There are trails like the 1.3-mile Tower Trail around the base, a visitor center, and picnic areas. An entrance fee applies, but the America the Beautiful annual pass covers it.