In June, Cameron and I embarked on what could only be described as an epic road trip across the American West. Our adventure commenced with our arrival in Denver, from where we journeyed north to Wyoming, ventured into North Dakota, and concluded our travels in southeastern Colorado.
The first leg of our journey was a scenic drive from Denver to Hulett, Wyoming—a quaint town of just 419 residents, nestled just outside the iconic Devils Tower. Though technically a National Monument rather than a national park, the sheer magnificence of Devils Tower warrants a dedicated post.
As a child, the film Close Encounters of the Third Kind left a lasting impression on me, making a visit to Devils Tower a non-negotiable stop on our trip. Known also as Bear Lodge Butte, this striking geological feature is an igneous butte that soars 1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River. Standing atop it places you at an elevation of 5,112 feet above sea level. Designated a National Monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in September 1906, Devils Tower is not only a monument to natural beauty but also to historical preservation.
The origins of Devils Tower intrigue geologists and visitors alike. Known for its unique columnar jointing—the world’s most prominent example—this tower is primarily composed of phonolite porphyry, a rare igneous rock. The prevailing theory suggests that Devils Tower formed from magma that solidified underground and was later exposed through erosion. However, other theories abound, including fascinating speculations that it might be a volcanic plug or the remnants of an extinct volcano’s neck.
Touring the monument is surprisingly straightforward. The site includes a few charming gift shops, trading posts, eateries, a post office, and a campground before the solitary road leading to the heart of the monument. A delightful Prairie Dog Town greets visitors en route to the visitor center and parking area at the base of the tower.
For those keen to explore, parking at the visitor center and hiking around the base of the tower is a must. The trail winds through massive boulders, remnants of geological processes over millennia. The elevation provides breathtaking views of the valley—a truly sublime experience. Additionally, the area around the Belle Fourche River offers lovely vistas and a different perspective on the tower.
Further explorations include a dirt road leading past the visitor center turnoff to the Devils Tower Lodge, where a hike up a small hill presents the classic view of the tower against a backdrop of vast fields and dense forests. The first night, we were treated to a spectacular sunset from this vantage point. Other routes off RT24 offer distant views, each uniquely captivating.
An unforgettable event occurred on our last night when a massive thunderstorm rolled in, bringing with it wind, hail, rain, and lightning. We took refuge in a parking lot, and fortuitously, the storm cleared just an hour before sunset, allowing us a final hike up to the tower.
Despite being a time of global uncertainty, the park was pleasantly uncrowded, making our visit serene and unimpeded. We enjoyed excellent meals at the cozy restaurant adjacent to the campsite.
Reflecting on Hulett, Wyoming, this tiny town charmed us completely. Spanning less than one square mile with a population near 400, Hulett boasts a hotel, two saloons, several restaurants, and a general store—all within walking distance. Its proximity to Devils Tower made it an ideal base for our explorations. This small town, with its easy-going charm and scenic surrounds, provided a perfect conclusion to our grand Western adventure.
