Devils Tower Back Road
Circle the tower like the locals do
The Devils Tower Back Road isn’t one route but rather a network of BLM roads, ranch tracks, and primitive two-tracks that loop around the famous volcanic neck through a landscape of rolling prairie, scattered ponderosa pine, and red scoria ridges. Most drivers stick to the paved tourist approach, but this backcountry circuit reveals the monument from angles impossible to appreciate from the crowded visitor center. The most memorable section winds through the Belle Fourche River breaks south of the tower, where the road becomes little more than wheel ruts threading between sandstone outcrops and prairie dog towns.
Any stock SUV or pickup with decent ground clearance can handle this route in dry conditions, though recent rains can turn the clay-rich soil into an impassable gumbo. Spring through fall offers the best travel conditions, with wildflower displays peaking in June and July. Several sections cross private ranch land where gates must be left as found, and hunting season (September-November) brings increased traffic and potential conflicts with hunters. The route offers numerous opportunities for dispersed camping on public land with unobstructed views of the tower, especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Easy |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | Scenic Drive |
| Surface | Dirt, Gravel |
| Features | Camping, Historic, Scenic |
| Length (miles) | 32 mi / 51.5 km |
| Duration | 1 day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 4200 ft |
| Best season | April-November |
| Minimum vehicle | Stock SUV high-clearance |
| Nearest town | Sundance, Wyoming |
| Land manager | Bureau of Land Management |
| Permit required | No |
| Cell service | Spotty |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | Yes |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
| Copy both for Google Maps directionsClick to copy the directions URL · or open it directly in a new tab | |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |
Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can my stock Jeep Cherokee handle Devils Tower Back Road?
Yes, any stock SUV with decent ground clearance can handle this route. It's mostly maintained dirt and gravel ranch roads with some washboard sections.
Is Devils Tower Back Road accessible in winter?
The road is generally closed or impassable November through March due to snow and mud. Stick to April-November for reliable access.
Do I need permits to drive around Devils Tower on the back roads?
No permits required for the back road loop itself, but you'll need to pay park entrance fees if you visit Devils Tower National Monument. The BLM sections are free.
What's the roughest part of this 32-mile loop?
The northern section can get washboarded and rutted after rain, but nothing that requires 4WD. Take it slow through the deeper ruts near the ranch gates.
Are there good dispersed camping spots along the back road?
Yes, plenty of pullouts and meadows for camping on BLM land, especially on the east side of the loop. Just stay off private ranch land and follow Leave No Trace principles.