Dark red sandstone and maroon siltstone, interbedded with shale, can be seen along the Belle Fourche River. This sea covered much of the central and western United States during the Triassic period, 225 to 195 million years ago. The oldest rocks visible in Devils Tower National Monument were deposited in a shallow inland sea. Many fossils are found in sedimentary rocks, providing us with clues about ancient ecosystems. This process, known as deposition, is common in river deltas and coastal areas. These rocks are formed from solidification of minerals or organic material, and are usually deposited by water or wind. Most of the landscape surrounding Devils Tower is composed of sedimentary rocks. Fossilized remains of marine plants like crinoids and creatures such as oysters and belemnites are found in these rocks. Read the stories from the Arapahoe, Cheyenne, Crow, Kiowa and Lakota HERE.The visible layers of sedimentary rocks today give us clues to the ancient environments under which they formed. Each is just as interesting, colorful and exciting as the last. Each tribe has their own version of how the tower was formed. ![]() These stories have been passed down generation after generation and hold a sacred spot in each Tribe. Native American Stories: There are many oral histories about Devils Tower that have been told by several American Indian Tribes. The Name: Why is it called Devils Tower? Back in 1875 on a scientific exploration, an Army Colonel dubbed the tower “Devils Tower” after learning the Native Americans called the tower “Bad Gods Tower.” Other names for the tower include the Lakota term Mato Tipilia which means “Bear Lodge,” Tree Rock, Home of the Bear, Great Grey Horn and Bear’s Tipi. The tower itself is 867 feet tall and the highest elevation is 5,112 above sea level. The tower’s flat top is 1.5 acres and the sides are fluted. The Formation: The tower is believed to have been formed about 50 million years ago when molten rock, moving upward, encountered a hard rock layer that it couldn’t get past. The history of Devils Tower is very interesting and complex. This trail does have an area of significant elevation change. Joyner Ridge Trail: This 1.6 mile trail rewards hikers with incredible views of the tower and the Belle Fourche River. ![]() This trail does have moderate elevation change and would be better suited for elementary age children or older. Red Beds Trail: This 2.8 mile trail is a more traditional trail where hikers will be rewarded with fantastic views of the Tower and the Belle Fourche River. Hikers will walk through a prairie dog town. I recommend this trail for families with young children or for someone who wants to stretch their legs. 6 mile trail is very similar to the Valley View Trail. Hikers get up close to a prairie dog town and will walk along the Belle Fourche River. 6 mile trail has little to no elevation change and is a perfect trail for stretching your legs or walking with a family. Hikers are rewarded with up close views of the tower, sweeping views of the surrounding plains and up close encounters with the boulder field. This trail is paved the entire way and is stroller friendly with mild elevation changes. This 1.3 mile trail circles around the base of the Tower. Tower Trail: This is the most popular trail at Devils Tower. Spacious, unique rooms with private baths, a hot tub with a view and a 25 foot dining room table overlooking at the base of Devils Tower make up this incredible place. This KOA offers a full-service restaurant, an extensive gift shop and a Sweet Shoppe that features legendary fudge and hand-dipped ice cream.ĭevils Tower Lodge: Nestled on 21 private acres of precious prairie and ponderosa pine, Devils Tower Lodge is a one of a kind, rustic experience. The movie Close Encounters of the Third Kind was filmed on-site in 1976, and it is shown nightly at the campground. Enjoy the nightly hayride through the historic Campstool Ranch, one of the oldest ranches in Wyoming. ![]() This KOA campground lies in the shadow of Devils Tower. READ NEXT: How to ENJOY Tent Camping with Toddlers Where to Stay Outside of Devils Tower:ĭevils Tower KOA: Devils Tower National Monument, named a "top 10 ecotourism destination," is America's first national monument. While there are 43 pull-through 35’ RV Sites, there are no hookups. ![]() There are restrooms and water spigots available. Yes! There is a campground at Devils Tower National Monument!īelle-Fourche River Campground: This campground offers 46-sites with 3 tent-only group sites.
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