Devils Tower

This was a must see stop on this trip. We headed west into Wyoming to Devil’s Tower, the first national monument dedicated by Teddy Roosevelt in 1906. We chose Route 14A which runs parallel to I-90 – just the speed is slower and we went through towns like Beulah (pop. 33) and Sundance (where “The Kid” got his name – they say). The tower can be seen for miles before you get there and you feel drawn to its magical-ness. Not sure why. Anyway, we chose the loop trail around the base of the tower and were pleased to see that they allow bouldering and climbing on the tower. Just have to let them know. There were several parties of climbers at the base area – some had already gone to the top, others were just starting. We got off the trail and did some of our own bouldering. Rick was inspired to come back and climb it someday – just needs a partner and it probably won’t be me! We stayed a couple of hours enjoying the scenery and spirituality of the tower. Birds were soaring the steep cliffs and it seemed like most people were very quiet as they hiked the same path as us. The place does that to you.

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