description Devil's Tower Overview
Devil’s Tower is a striking igneous rock formation located in northeast Wyoming. It’s notable for its unique columnar basalt structure, formed by slow cooling lava flows approximately 70,000 years ago. The tower's consistent columns make it a popular destination for climbing and offer a geological spectacle. It was designated America’s first national monument in 1906 and is of interest to geologists, climbers, and visitors exploring the American West.
help Devil's Tower FAQ
In which US state is Devil's Tower located?
Devil's Tower is a massive geological formation located in Crook County, northeastern Wyoming. In 1906, it became the first designated United States National Monument under President Theodore Roosevelt.
How was Devil's Tower geologically formed?
Geologists believe it is an igneous intrusion that hardened into phonolite porphyry beneath the earth's surface millions of years ago. The surrounding softer rock eroded away over time, exposing the distinct, towering columnar basalt structure.
Can visitors legally climb Devil's Tower?
Yes, climbing is permitted and the tower is a highly popular destination for traditional rock climbing. However, the National Park Service asks climbers to voluntarily refrain from scaling the monument in June to respect Native American cultural ceremonies.
What famous sci-fi movie prominently features Devil's Tower?
Devil's Tower served as the climactic alien rendezvous point in Steven Spielberg's 1977 film *Close Encounters of the Third Kind*. The film's popularity dramatically increased tourism to the Wyoming monument.
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