Devil's Tower, a striking geological formation in Wyoming, holds deep spiritual significance for numerous Native American tribes and holds the distinction of being the first United States national monument. However, its iconic status in popular culture was cemented by the 1977 science fiction film 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind,' which dramatically featured the tower as a site of extraterrestrial contact.
A Sacred Site Becomes a Tourist Attraction
Long before Hollywood took notice, Devil's Tower was a place of worship, ceremony, and legend for indigenous peoples, including the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Kiowa. The monolith, rising 1,267 feet above the surrounding prairie, was designated a national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1906. The film's release, however, transformed it into a global tourism magnet, drawing visitors eager to see the location where fictional aliens made contact.
Impact of 'Close Encounters of the Third Kind'
Directed by Steven Spielberg, the movie depicts Devil's Tower as the landing site for a massive alien mothership. The film's iconic scene, where the mountain is illuminated and surrounded by government agents, sparked a surge in visitor numbers. According to the National Park Service, annual visitation to Devil's Tower increased significantly after the film's debut, with many tourists citing the movie as their primary reason for visiting.
The tower's distinctive appearance, characterized by vertical cracks and columns, has also made it a popular destination for rock climbers. However, the site's cultural importance has led to voluntary climbing closures during June, when many tribes hold ceremonies. Park officials encourage visitors to respect these traditions while exploring the area.
Modern Tourism and Preservation
Today, Devil's Tower National Monument attracts over 500,000 visitors each year. The park offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and interpretive programs about the region's natural and cultural history. Despite its fame from the film, the site remains a place of reverence for Native Americans, who continue to conduct ceremonies at its base. The juxtaposition of spiritual significance and pop culture fame makes Devil's Tower a unique destination in the American landscape.
