Shared Devil’s Tower Tour

If you’re eyeing a trip to the Black Hills area, the Shared Devils’ Tower Tour offers a compelling way to see one of the region’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, I’ve gathered enough info to help you decide if it fits your travel style. It promises a full day of scenic drives, engaging narration, and plenty of opportunities to marvel at the impressive Devils Tower, a formation unlike any other.

What we genuinely like about this tour is the combination of convenience and expertise—being picked up from your hotel and guided by knowledgeable locals makes the experience smooth and enriching. Plus, the stunning views of Devils Tower are hard to beat, especially if you’re into geology or simply love awe-inspiring landscapes. On the flip side, one point to consider is the price—at over $350 per person, it’s an investment, but for many, the value of expert guidance and a curated itinerary makes it worthwhile.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a day trip that combines scenic beauty with educational insights, especially if you want to avoid the stress of self-driving or organizing multiple stops. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a small group setting, as the maximum is just 12 people. If you’re eager to see Devils Tower with a knowledgeable guide and enjoy a relaxed, well-planned day, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup and comfortable transportation make for a stress-free day.
• Expert guides provide insightful narration that enhances understanding of Devils Tower and surrounding sights.
• Stunning scenery and a walk around the base offer great photo opportunities.
• Limited group size ensures a more personalized experience.
• The price reflects the inclusion of entrance fees, snacks, bottled water, and a full day of sightseeing.
• Not including lunch means you’ll need to plan your own meal, which can be a flexible plus or minus depending on your needs.

The Complete Breakdown of the Devils’ Tower Tour

Starting Point and Pickup

Your day begins early, around 8:30 AM, with a hotel pickup in Rapid City. This is something we really appreciate—no need to worry about navigating or finding parking. The transportation is air-conditioned, making the journey comfortable, especially during warmer months. The small group size (up to 12 travelers) ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd, and the guides are typically knowledgeable and friendly.

Scenic Drive and En Route Stops

The drive itself is part of the experience. Passing through towns like Sturgis and Spearfish, you’ll get a sense of the local landscape and culture. The tour includes a couple of interesting stops: the Vore Buffalo Jump, open from June 1st to Labor Day, offers a peek into Native American history and ecology. If you’re into history or archaeology, this is a highlight, though it’s optional; if you’re short on time, it might be brief.

Next, the Aladdin General Store is a quirky stop. It’s over a century old—imagine the stories those walls could tell—and it’s a fun place to browse some unique items. The stops add a layer of local flavor that makes the trip more than just about the main attraction.

Arrival at Devils Tower

Once at Devils Tower National Monument, your guide provides a narrated introduction, setting the scene for what you’re about to see. The monument itself is famous for its appearance in Close Encounters of the Third Kind, and it’s easy to see why. Rising 1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River, this formation is a sight to behold. The base walk, which takes about 55 minutes, allows you to admire the tower from all angles, offering plenty of opportunities for photos and appreciation of its scale.

The visitor center provides restrooms and some basic amenities. Though the walk isn’t strenuous, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially in warmer weather.

What’s Included and What’s Not

On this tour, your price of roughly $354 covers entrance fees, bottled water, snacks, and the guide’s commentary. The snacks are a nice touch, keeping you energized for the day, and the bottled water ensures you stay hydrated amidst the scenery. You’ll also find umbrellas and blankets in the van—handy if the weather shifts or if you want to picnic at one of the stops.

However, lunch isn’t included, so you should plan to pack your own or grab something in one of the towns en route. This offers flexibility, but also means you’ll need to allocate some time for that.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Based on reviews, travelers like Candice were especially pleased, saying, “Great trip with Ann my private tour guide from Affordable Adventures. Thanks for accommodating my last-minute itinerary changes. Love my experience.” This highlights that guides are flexible and attentive, which can make a big difference in how personalized the trip feels.

Another reviewer mentioned the knowledgeable guides as a major plus, noting how their expertise made the experience more meaningful. The stunning views are universally appreciated—many comment on how breathtaking Devils Tower is, especially with a guide explaining its significance.

Duration and Group Size

This is a solid full-day tour, lasting 8 to 9 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed. The small group size (maximum 12) helps foster a more intimate experience, with ample opportunity to ask questions and interact with your guide.

Pricing and Value

While $354 might seem steep for a day trip, consider what’s included: transportation, guided narration, entrance fees, snacks, and bottled water. If you were to organize similar stops independently, the costs could add up quickly, especially with guided attention and comfort. Plus, the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off makes it attractive for travelers who prefer a hassle-free day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers interested in geology, natural landscapes, or American West scenery. It’s especially good if you want a guided, educational experience without the stress of planning every detail. It’s also a nice option for those who value small-group settings for a more personal touch.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more flexible, self-guided exploration, you might find this tour a bit pricier. Also, if you’re not prepared for a full day on the road, this might feel long, but for most, it’s a satisfying way to see Devils Tower and enjoy the journey.

Final Thoughts

The Shared Devils’ Tower Tour offers one of the best ways to see this striking landmark with ease and expert commentary. The combination of scenic stops, a knowledgeable guide, and a small-group vibe creates an engaging experience that can really deepen your appreciation for this natural wonder. The availability of snacks, bottled water, and some flexibility in stops enhances the overall value—though be prepared to bring your own lunch.

If your trip to Rapid City includes a desire to witness one of the most distinctive formations in the U.S., this tour is worth considering. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided day that balances sightseeing with a touch of local history and geology.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Devils’ Tower Tour

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour starts with pickup from your hotel in Rapid City, making it very convenient and saving time on logistics.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, giving plenty of time to explore and enjoy the stops without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, which helps ensure a more personalized experience and better interaction with your guide.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers entrance fees, bottled water, snacks, an English-speaking guide, and air-conditioned transportation. However, lunch is not included.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour’s not designed specifically for children, but the walk around Devils Tower is moderate and suitable for most ages.

What stops are included besides Devils Tower?
You’ll visit the Vore Buffalo Jump (seasonal) and the Aladdin General Store, adding local flavor and a touch of history to your day.

Is this tour suitable for photography?
Absolutely. The base walk around Devils Tower provides fantastic angles for photos, and the guide can help point out optimal viewpoints.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and an optional camera. Since lunch isn’t included, pack a snack or plan to buy something in town.

Is it worth the cost?
If you value guided insight, a relaxed schedule, and want to see Devils Tower without the hassle of self-driving, most find the cost justified, especially considering what’s included.

In the end, this tour is about making the most of a day dedicated to one of the West’s most extraordinary landscapes. If that sounds like your kind of trip, it’s a solid choice to consider.