Circle of Sacred Smoke

The Visitor Center is open mid-spring through fall. Hours vary season to season. Interpretive exhibits explain the geologic, natural, and cultural history of the area. 

Hiking trails meander for approximately 8 miles (12.1 km) through Devils Tower National Monument. The popular 1.3 mile (2 km) paved Tower Trail circles Devils Tower itself. Other longer trails traverse tranquil forests and meadows in the monument. 

Circle of Sacred Smoke Sculpture:
The circle of sacred smoke sculpture honors the American people as a gesture of world peace by sculptor Junkyu Muto. The sculpture is designed to help raise visitor awareness of the importance of the tower to over twenty affiliated tribes. It is the third of seven works planned by the sculptor around the world. The first two are located at Vatican City and Bodhi, India. The sculpture represents the first puff of smoke from a newly lit pipe. The sculpture is acessible by road or by trail from the prairie dog town.

Winter activities include hiking, cross-country skiing, and climbing. Caution – trails are not maintained in winter. The road to the picnic area and circle of sacred smoke may not be open in the winter.

Technical rock climbing is allowed in the monument. ALL PERSONS PLANNING TO CLIMB OR SCRAMBLE ABOVE THE BOULDER FIELD ARE REQUIRED TO REGISTER BEFORE AND CHECK IN AFTER A CLIMB. The Climbing Management Plan, implemented in 1995, manages Devils Tower as both a natural and cultural resource. To the Northern Plains Indians, Devils Tower is a sacred site. Out of deference to American Indian views, there is a voluntary climbing closure during the month of June.

Interpretive activities: A full schedule of interpretive activities will take place between mid-June and late August. A modified schedule of activities will take place in May, September and October, as staffing permits.

INTERPRETIVE TALKS explore the natural and cultural history of the monument. These 20 minute talks meet in front of the Visitor Center and are handicap accessible. Subjects and times vary and will be announced prior to each program.

The TOWER WALK enables visitors to explore Devils Tower with a ranger on the Tower Trail. This 1 ½ hour guided walk begins in front of the Visitor Center. Good walking shoes and water are recommended.

EVENING PROGRAMS are offered Wednesday through Sunday nights at the Devils Tower Amphitheater located near the campground and picnic areas. Topics vary and are listed at the Visitor Center. Programs usually begin at 9 p.m.

The CULTURAL PROGRAM SERIES brings special guest speakers to Devils Tower to share their expertise and demonstrate their unique talents. Check at the Visitor Center for information about these multi-cultural programs.

A JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM is available for children. Junior Ranger booklets may be obtained at the Visitor Center. Children will need at least one hour to complete the program. Junior Ranger Certificates and badges are issued upon completion of the booklet. Junior Ranger Patches may be purchased in the bookstore.

WRITER-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM Two one-week residencies are available at the monument in the fall. The goal of this residency is to provide an inspiring, secluded working environment for promising writers.