Devils Tower National Monument Climbing Articles

Devils Tower National Monument Guide: Climbing

The Durrance Route is the most popular route up Devils Tower, a six-pitch trad climb that begins at the leaning column on the tower’s south face. Though the route is often described as a 5.6, the second-pitch Durrance Crack is thought by many to warrant a higher rating.
The two-pitch, 5.9 Soler Route on the east face is a favorite for many climbers. It is known for its picturesque rock and a fun hanging belay at the end of the first pitch.
At the KOA campground south of the tower, the nightly showings of Close Encounters of the Third Kind are a tradition for many climbers.
Though controversial, many climbers observe a month-long voluntary closure on Devils Tower in June. This is done in deference to local Native American communities—many consider the tower sacred ground.

By Travel Expert: Brian Kevin