Rock Climbing at Devils Tower

Things to know

• Covid measures in Devils Tower

  57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity.

  We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re travelling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Devils Tower, WY, please refer to the Wyoming Department of Health.

  Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

• Registration and voluntary climbing closure

  To climb Devils Tower, all climbers have to register before climbing. Registration is a legal requirement for anyone planning to climb or scramble above the boulder field and must be done before your climb. It can be completed at the climbing kiosk at the Visitor Center parking lot. Hang on to your return slip as you have to deposit it at the end of your climb. Failure to obtain a permit is subject to citation and fine. 

  This mandatory registration is free and in the best interests of climbers and the climbing community: it ensures safety, documents use of the Tower as a climbing resource, and becomes part of a historical database.

  Another important thing every climber should be aware of is that June is a voluntary climbing closure. Devils Tower is regarded as a sacred site for Native Americans and every June, the park asks visitors to voluntarily refrain from climbing the Tower or scrambling inside of the Tower Trail loop. 

• What’s included?

  What you get on this adventure:

  • An experienced, local rock-climbing guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  • Two full days of rock climbing 
  • All technical climbing gear

  What’s not included:

  • Snacks and meals
  • Transportation
  • Accommodation
  • Entrance fee for Devils Tower Monument
• How fit do I need to be?

  This course is ideal for those who have experience with rock climbing in gyms, as well as those who have a little outdoor climbing experience. If your guide decides that a summit attempt is not possible due to your skill level, you will spend your second day climbing in Custer State Park or Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

  For the more advanced climbs, you will need an excellent level of fitness as you will be moving for a minimum of three hours on the rocks plus some additional hiking. Climbs range from 5.7 to 5.13, although many climbers find some climbs more difficult than their original ratings.

  Keep in mind that it can take up to six hours to summit Devils Tower and two hours to rappel. Even though rock climbing is all about using good movement technique rather than muscling up a cliff using brute strength, Devils Tower will test you. Be prepared for a full day of strenuous climbing.

• What if I’ve never climbed before?

  Devils Tower and Custer State Park have plenty of options for beginner climbers. Whether you’ve never climbed before or are transitioning from the gym to outdoor climbing, your guide will customize the day to suit your skill level and objectives. With a guide by your side, you’ll learn something new, stay safe on the rocks, and most importantly, have fun! Even if it turns out that you didn’t reach the skill level required to summit the Devils Tower, you will spend your second day climbing in Custer State Park or Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

• What about required equipment?

  All technical climbing equipment will be provided by your guiding service. However, if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it. You’ll need:

  • Helmet
  • Harness with a locking carabiner, belay device, and chalk bag
  • Ropes
  • Rock shoes (included in the price, but we recommend bringing your own if you have them)
  • Climbing hardware (quickdraws, cam devices, stoppers, etc.)

  Here’s a list of the equipment we suggest you bring:

  • Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 40L bag)
  • Water bottle
  • Food you can eat on-the-go
  • Toiletries (sunscreen, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  • Sunglasses
  • Camera — optional

  Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

• Group sizes and age requirements

  Group sizes and prices:

  • For this adventure, the max client to guide ratio is 2:1 and cost is per person. 
  • Costs per person will decrease as the group grows for private tours, so it’s the perfect opportunity to climb with friends and family.
  • Climbing days can be arranged for bigger groups. Contact us prior to booking.

   

  Min. age requirements:

  • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  • Minors as young as 5 may be permitted to climb on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

  If your group has climbers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

• Getting there and meeting location

  To get to the Custer State Park and Devils Tower, most people fly into Rapid City Regional Airport, SD. From there, you can rent a car. There is no public transportation available to Devils Tower National Monument. Enjoy a two-hour scenic drive through the Black Hills until you reach your destination. 

  Before your day of climbing, your guide will let you know the best place to meet. In most cases, you will meet your guide at the Visitors Center. The exact climbing spot will be discussed after the booking as guides make that decision after considering the skill level of the group and factors such as crag traffic and weather.

  In case you need lodging, Devils Tower Lodge offers accommodation from $110/night.

• Cancellation policy

  Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies:

  • Cancellations made less than 30 days in advance, but more than 48 hours in advance: 50% refund.
  • Cancellations made 48 hours or less prior to the date of your course: No refund.
  • No show: No refund.

  You can also reschedule your trip according to the following policy:

  • Up to 14 days in advance: Reschedule within the same climbing season at no additional charge.
  • Less than 48 hours before the scheduled course: No refund and no possibility of rescheduling

  Sylvan Rocks is not responsible for other costs which may be incurred, such as entrance fees to Custer State Park or Devils Tower National Monument, camping, lodging, or food. Trip insurance is encouraged and can be purchased from several places online or from your favorite travel agent.

• Travel and Medical Protection
  57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.