Devils Tower

Devils Tower, Wyoming: Hidden Gems

DARK CORNERS

Wyoming, USA

“Dark Corners” is a collection of articles that sheds light on the hidden gems in various cities around the world. From bustling metropolises to quaint towns, this series uncovers the offbeat and lesser-known places that are worth exploring. With insider tips and expert recommendations, “Dark Corners” takes you on a journey through the secret alleys, tucked-away restaurants, and hidden attractions that are often missed by the average tourist. Discover the magic of these overlooked corners and unlock the true essence of these cities. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, “Dark Corners” is the ultimate guide to uncovering the world’s best-kept secrets.

Devils Tower: Wyoming, USA

Devils Tower, located in northeastern Wyoming, is a unique geological formation that has fascinated people for centuries. Standing at 867 feet (265 meters) tall, the tower is a sacred site for many Native American tribes and a popular destination for visitors from around the world.

Devils Tower was formed around 50 million years ago during the Eocene epoch. At that time, the area was covered by a shallow sea, and magma from the Earth’s mantle began to push its way up through the sedimentary rock layers. Over time, the softer sedimentary rock eroded away, leaving behind the harder igneous rock that makes up the tower.

The tower is made up of columns of rock that are around six-sided and range in diameter from a few inches to several feet. These columns were formed when the magma cooled and cracked, a process known as columnar jointing. The columns are incredibly straight and uniform, giving the tower its distinctive appearance.

The tower was named Devils Tower in 1875 by Colonel Richard Dodge, who was leading a geological survey of the area. The name has its roots in Native American folklore, as several tribes have their own stories and legends about the tower.

For many Native American tribes, Devils Tower is a sacred site that has deep cultural and spiritual significance. The tower is known as Bear Lodge to the Lakota, which is a name that reflects the importance of bears in their culture. According to Lakota legend, seven sisters were being pursued by a bear, and they climbed to the top of the tower to escape. The bear tried to climb the tower, but the sisters prayed to the Great Spirit, who caused the tower to rise up into the sky, out of reach of the bear. The bear clawed at the sides of the tower, leaving deep marks that can still be seen today.

For other tribes, Devils Tower is a site of vision quests and other spiritual practices. Many people still visit the tower today to offer prayers and seek guidance from the spirits. The National Park Service, which manages the site, works closely with local tribes to ensure that the tower is respected and protected.

In addition to its cultural and spiritual significance, Devils Tower is also a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The tower is a world-famous rock climbing destination, with more than 200 routes of varying difficulty. Climbing the tower is not for the faint of heart, as it requires technical skill, strength, and endurance. However, for those who are up to the challenge, the rewards are breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking is another popular activity at Devils Tower. The park has several trails of varying lengths and difficulty, ranging from short walks around the base of the tower to longer hikes through the surrounding hills and forests. Visitors can also take part in ranger-led programs, which offer insights into the geology, history, and culture of the area.

Devils Tower is also home to a diverse array of wildlife. The park is home to deer, elk, pronghorns, and other mammals, as well as a variety of birds, including golden eagles and prairie falcons. Visitors are asked to respect the park’s wildlife and to observe from a safe distance.

Overall, Devils Tower is a unique and awe-inspiring destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in geology, culture, outdoor recreation, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the area, Devils Tower is well worth a visit. With its towering columns of rock, deep cultural significance, and stunning natural beauty, Devils Tower is a true wonder of the American West.