Desert View Watchtower: A Window to the Grand Canyon's Soul
Iconic 1930s stone tower on the Grand Canyon's South Rim, offering panoramic views and honoring Native American heritage and design.
The Desert View Watchtower, a 70-foot stone structure on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the canyon's indigenous history. Designed by Mary Colter in 1932, it blends seamlessly with the natural landscape, drawing inspiration from ancestral Puebloan watchtowers.
A brief summary to Desert View Watchtower
- Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
- +1800-858-2808
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season, as the tower's capacity is limited.
- Take the Desert View Drive from Grand Canyon Village for scenic viewpoints and access to the Watchtower.
- Explore the View Room on the lower level, modeled after a traditional Native American kiva, and see cultural demonstrations.
- Bring binoculars to enhance your views of the Colorado River and distant landmarks.
- Visit the nearby Tusayan Museum and Ruins to learn more about the ancestral Puebloan people.
Getting There
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Driving
From Grand Canyon Village, drive east on Highway 64 (Desert View Drive) for approximately 25 miles. The Desert View area will be on the left. Parking is available in the Desert View parking lot. From the parking lot, a short, paved path leads to the Watchtower. Parking is free. Expect heavier traffic and limited parking during peak season and around sunset.
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Public Transport
There is no shuttle bus service directly to Desert View from Grand Canyon Village. Commercial bus tours are available from Grand Canyon Village to Desert View, with prices varying depending on the tour operator. Check with tour operators for schedules and pricing. The Grand Canyon Conservancy offers a Desert Watchtower View Tour for $100 per person.
Discover more about Desert View Watchtower
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