Devils Tower: Joyner Ridge Trailhead

The Joyner Ridge Trail is one of the best-kept secrets at Devils Tower — a short, relatively easy loop along the north side of the monument that sees a fraction of the visitors compared to the Tower Trail, yet delivers one of the finest panoramic views of the Tower available anywhere in the park. Unlike the Tower and Red Beds Trails, which closely circle the base, Joyner Ridge sits at a higher elevation and greater distance — framing the Tower against a foreground of grassy prairie and ponderosa pine, with the monolithic column rising in the background. It is widely considered the best spot in the park to catch sunrise. The 1.5-mile loop transitions through meadow, forest, and rocky terrain, descending on switchbacks and natural rock steps into a valley where deer are commonly spotted grazing. Hike the loop clockwise — starting up and to the left from the trailhead — for the most gradual ascent and best views early on. The trailhead is located 0.8 miles down the main park road from the visitor center, accessed via a short gravel road. No pets.