If you’re considering adding a bit of adventure to your Wyoming trip, a guided rock climbing experience at Devils Tower might just be the highlight you’re looking for. While I haven’t tried it myself, I’ve researched what makes this tour stand out—and from what I’ve seen, it’s an opportunity to enjoy one of America’s most iconic landmarks with expert guidance and a range of climbing options.
What really catches my eye about this experience is the variety of climbs offered—from beginner-friendly single pitches to challenging multi-pitch routes—meaning there’s a good chance it can suit different comfort levels and ambitions. Plus, the guides seem incredibly experienced and personable, which helps turn a potentially intimidating activity into a safe, enjoyable adventure. However, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, people with certain physical limitations, or those who aren’t comfortable outdoors. It’s best for those ready to step into the world of traditional climbing or eager to learn new skills.
If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures, appreciates stunning geological formations, and wants a guided experience that prioritizes safety while offering a fun challenge, this tour could be a fantastic pick. Just keep in mind that it involves a full day of activity, so some basic fitness and outdoor readiness will make the experience even better.
Key Points
- Professional, certified guides ensure safety and expert instruction.
- Variety of climbing routes tailored to all experience levels—from beginner to advanced.
- Inclusion of technical climbing gear makes it easier to focus on the climb itself.
- Limited bolt protection on the Tower highlights the importance of traditional climbing skills.
- Full-day experience (about 8 hours), perfect for those wanting an in-depth adventure.
- Not suitable for children under 10 or individuals with certain health or physical restrictions.
An Inside Look at the Devils Tower Climbing Tour
When thinking about a guided climbing experience at Devils Tower, the first thing that comes to mind is the sheer iconic nature of the site. This massive volcanic plug rises dramatically from the landscape, and it’s a spot that has attracted climbers and visitors for generations. Being a designated National Monument and a site of cultural importance to indigenous tribes, it’s good to remember that climbing here requires some respect for its significance.
What to Expect on Your Climbing Day
The day typically kicks off at the Devils Tower Visitor Center, where you’ll meet your guide in the upper gravel overflow lot. This location is convenient and avoids the busy paved lot, which is a small but thoughtful detail. The guides are described as friendly, patient, and expert—key qualities when tackling a climb that demands technical skills like crack climbing.
Depending on your experience and goals, you might choose from several options: a beginners’ single-pitch cragging session, a summit attempt via routes like Durrance or Pseudo-Wiessner, or a completely customized experience tailored specifically for more advanced climbers. The guided routes are designed to be safe and supportive, with guides providing all necessary technical equipment, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own gear—though you’ll want to dress in outdoor clothing, bring plenty of water, and apply sunscreen.
The Climbing Experience and Techniques
Climbing Devils Tower is a bit different from typical rocky crags. It features a style called crack climbing, where you wedge your hands and feet into the vertical cracks along the rock face to ascend. This technique is both challenging and rewarding, especially because the Tower has limited bolt protection. This means traditional protection skills are essential, and guides will likely emphasize safety and technique throughout.
From the reviews, climbers praise the clear instructions and patient approach of the guides—one traveler mentioned feeling confident and comfortable right from the start, thanks to Andrew’s explanations. Others highlight the variety of routes they tried, which offered a good mix of challenges without being overwhelming.
The Value of a Guided Climb
At $475 per person for an approximately 8-hour day, this experience isn’t exactly cheap, but it offers a lot of value. You’re paying not just for the climb but also for the guidance, support, equipment, and safety oversight. Considering the uniqueness of climbing Devils Tower—an extraordinary geological feature—and the professionalism of Wyoming Mountain Guides, it’s a worthwhile investment for those genuinely interested in outdoor adventure.
It’s also quite flexible, with options for morning or afternoon sessions, plus the ability to reserve and pay later, which adds a layer of convenience for planning your trip.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This?
This tour is best suited for adventurers with basic outdoor fitness and a spirit of curiosity. You don’t need prior climbing experience for the beginner options, but a willingness to learn and a sense of adventure are key. More experienced climbers will appreciate the chance to push themselves with customized routes or summit attempts.
On the flip side, it’s not for everyone: children under 10, people with certain health issues, or those with limited mobility may find this activity unsuitable. Also, since the activity involves traditional climbing techniques, safety and comfort with heights are important.
Final Thoughts
This Devils Tower guided climbing tour offers more than just reaching the top of a legendary formation; it provides a comprehensive, safe introduction to the craft of crack climbing with some of the best guides in the area. If you’re someone who values expert instruction, stunning scenery, and the chance to challenge yourself outdoors, this experience could be a memorable highlight of your Wyoming trip.
While it does demand some physical effort and a bit of mental focus, the support from experienced guides and the breathtaking views make it well worth considering. For those eager to learn or push their limits in a safe environment, this tour strikes a thoughtful balance between challenge and enjoyment.
If you’re after a day packed with adventure, learning, and unforgettable scenery, and you’re okay with the investment, I’d say give it a shot. Just remember to prepare for a full day outdoors with all the essentials, and you’ll come away with more than just climbing skills—you’ll have stories to tell for years.
Devils Tower: Guided Rock Climbing Experience
FAQ
Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation to Devils Tower is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own travel to the site.
What should I bring for the climb?
Bring food and drinks, sunscreen, and outdoor clothing suitable for the weather. The guides provide all technical climbing equipment.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, they offer beginner-friendly single-pitch climbs, making it accessible for those new to outdoor climbing.
Are there routes for more experienced climbers?
Definitely. They offer summit attempts on routes like Durrance (5.7+, 7 pitches) and Pseudo-Wiessner (5.8, 5 pitches), catering to climbers with some experience.
Do I need to have prior climbing experience?
Not necessarily for the beginner options, but familiarity with crack climbing techniques and some outdoor experience will help if attempting the summit routes or custom experiences.
If this kind of adventure calls to you, and you’re ready to tackle one of America’s most striking geological sites with expert help, this guided climb at Devils Tower might just be the next great story in your travel book.
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