Rock Climbing at Devils Tower: Guided Trad Routes and Summit Attempts in Wyoming
Stand beneath a towering column of cold stone, clip in, and read the cracks—Devils Tower offers some of the finest trad multipitch climbing in the West. This guided experience pairs technical coaching with cultural context and full-day summit options.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early
Morning departures beat heat and afternoon wind that can push across exposed belays.
Respect the June closure
Observe the voluntary climbing closure during June out of respect for Indigenous cultural practices and nesting birds.
Bring extra water
An 8-hour day in open country requires at least 2–3 liters per person, more in summer.
Practice trad basics beforehand
If possible, refresh gear placements, anchor building, and rappelling before your guided day to maximize learning time.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •East-side base viewpoints for sunrise reflections on the flutes
- •Short hike to the Belle Fourche River overlook for tranquil wildlife watching
Wildlife
- •Prairie dogs
- •Peregrine falcons
Conservation Note
Guides emphasize Leave No Trace and minimal fixed gear; visitors are encouraged to avoid chalking and clean up hardware to protect the rock and cultural values.
Devils Tower, known as Bear Lodge to local tribes, is a culturally significant site with multiple origin stories and ceremonial use; climbers often observe a voluntary June closure out of respect.
Photographer's Notes
- • East-side base for sunrise light on columns
- • Summit platform for panoramic plains shots
- • Approach trail for wide-angle compositions including prairie dog towns
What to Bring
Approach shoesEssential
Good grip and comfort for short, rocky approaches and scree descents.
Climbing shoesEssential
Sticky, well-fitting shoes are crucial for secure foot jams and edging on cracks.
HelmetEssential
Protects against rockfall and knocks on exposed multi-pitch terrain.
Light layering systemEssential
Wind can be cold in spring mornings—pack a breathable insulated layer and shell.
Common Questions
Do I need previous trad experience to join a guided trip?
Guides can teach trad basics, but participants should be comfortable with exposure, have a baseline of climbing fitness, and ideally some prior single-pitch experience.
When is the voluntary climbing closure?
Many climbers observe a voluntary closure for the month of June to respect Indigenous cultural practices and wildlife; check with the park for current recommendations.
What is the approach like?
Approaches are short (typically under a mile) but can be steep and loose—approach shoes and steady footing are important.
How long is a summit attempt?
Guided summit attempts are typically full-day efforts around 6–8 hours, depending on route choice, group pace, and conditions.
Is technical gear provided?
Guides supply technical climbing equipment (harness, helmet, rope, trad rack) but confirm specific inclusions when booking and bring personal items like shoes and gloves if preferred.
Are there altitude or medical concerns?
Devils Tower sits around 4,500 ft; it’s not extreme altitude but sustained exertion is required—those with heart or spinal issues should avoid strenuous participation.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Hulett, Wyoming
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
High aerobic fitness and upper-body endurance required; comfortable with exposure and long technical days.
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