The Devil is in the Details
and in the legend.
“Mom, why is there a spaceship over here?”
Madison had spotted a part of the visitors center that you wouldn’t normally see in a national park…
We had been driving across the wide open plains of Wyoming and there it was, just sticking out of the ground.
Devils Tower.
This being my first time seeing the national landmark, I did my best to drive in a straight line while trying to get a glimpse of the incredible sight.
The iconic Devils Tower was originally called Mato Tipila, meaning "Bear Lodge." A mistranslation by a 19th-century explorer led to its current name. In the Lakota language, the word for a “bad god” or an “evil spirit” is “wakansica”. However, the Lakota word for black bear is “wahanksica”.
Easy mistake I guess.
We were visiting in the height of tourist season so I was happy to have my “good luck parking charm”…Jenn. For some reason, she almost always gets a good spot, and she didn’t fail us this time.
Now seeing Devils Tower is a must, but the legend of its creation is something straight out of a Disney Movie…
The Sisters and the Tower
Once upon a time, in the rolling plains of what is now Wyoming, there lived a vibrant tribe deeply connected to the land and its ancient stories. Among the members of this tribe were two spirited sisters, known for their playful adventures and unyielding curiosity. One fateful day, while they were frolicking in the dense forest, the sisters strayed far from their home.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting an amber glow, an immense bear emerged from the shadows—its eyes fierce and intent. This was no ordinary bear; it was a creature of legend, a giant with claws that could rend the earth.
With hearts pounding like thunder, the sisters fled through the forest, the bear's roars echoing in their ears. Just as the beast was about to seize them, the sisters called out to the Great Spirit, their voices carrying a plea for salvation.
The ground beneath their feet shuddered and rose dramatically, lifting the sisters high above the grasp of the menacing bear. What had once been flat terrain transformed into a towering monolith of stone, a testament to the Great Spirit's power.
Undeterred, the bear reared up, scratching and clawing at the rock in a futile attempt to reach them. Its mighty claws left deep, lasting grooves in the stone, but the sisters remained untouched, safe on their lofty perch.
Eventually, the bear retreated, its roars fading into the distance. The towering rock, now marked with the bear's efforts, stood as a monument to the sisters' survival and the divine intervention that had saved them. The tribe named this miraculous formation Devils Tower, a sacred symbol of protection and the enduring bond between the people and the spirits of the land.
Some variations of this legend have two warriors that end up on top of the tower…but they are all pretty close to the same. The “Great Spirit” saves two brave souls, rescuing them from the mythical bear.
“Mom! The spaceship!”
We walked over to the corner of the Devils Tower visitors center and saw what she was talking about.
Steven Spielberg's iconic film, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, features the majestic Devils Tower as a central location. In the movie, the tower serves as a meeting point for extraterrestrial beings. The film's stunning visuals and the mysterious aura of the tower combine to create a captivating and unforgettable cinematic experience.
And there is a big part of the visitor’s center that features the movie.
We wrapped up our time at Devils Tower and hit the road towards a place known for a big battle and a last stand.
Facts and Travel Resources
Standing proudly in Wyoming, Devils Tower is a captivating monolith that blends natural splendor with profound cultural history. Positioned near the Black Hills, this national monument is a highlight for travelers in the area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of hiking trails and wildlife observation spots, perfect for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. The nearby prairie dog town offers a charming glimpse into the lives of these playful animals.
Rich in legend and lesser-known facts, Devils Tower holds a spiritual significance for many Native American tribes. One Arapaho legend tells of a bear who chased a family, causing the rock to rise from the ground, leaving behind the claw marks visible today. This story is just one of many that underscore the monument's importance to the 22 tribes that consider it sacred.
Geologically, Devils Tower is fascinating. It is thought to be the solidified core of an ancient volcano, revealed by the erosion of surrounding softer rock over eons. As the United States' first national monument, it continues to intrigue geologists, climbers, and tourists alike.
For climbing enthusiasts, Devils Tower offers routes for all abilities. However, it is important to acknowledge and respect the cultural importance of the site, especially in June when tribal ceremonies take place.
Visiting Devils Tower is an opportunity to appreciate a natural marvel while exploring the stories and histories that define this landmark. Whether attracted by its legends, its geology, or its sheer grandeur, a visit to this iconic site is sure to be enriching.