Voluntary climbing closure in June 

The month of June holds spiritual and cultural significance for the tribes closely associated with Mato Tipila – Bear Lodge (Devils Tower). The 1995 Devils Tower National Monument Climbing Management Plan established a voluntary closure for all climbing routes on the Tower out of respect for the cultural activities of Native Americans.

The voluntary climbing closure has been implemented each June since 1996. As a result, the average number of climbers that choose not to climb during June has led to an 85% reduction.

The National Park Service appreciates the efforts of those climbers who observ...