Background

Grandview Lookout Tower: A Historic Sentinel of the Kaibab

Climb a historic fire lookout in Kaibab National Forest for panoramic views and a unique Grand Canyon perspective.

4.6

Perched in the Kaibab National Forest near the Grand Canyon's South Rim, the Grandview Lookout Tower is an 80-foot steel structure built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. This historic fire lookout offers stunning views of the surrounding forest and distant landmarks, providing a unique perspective on the region's natural beauty and a glimpse into its past.

A brief summary to Grandview Lookout Tower

Local tips

  • The tower is typically staffed during fire season in the summer, offering visitors a chance to speak with knowledgeable fire lookouts.
  • Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience and spot distant landmarks.
  • The metal stairs can be daunting for those with a fear of heights; take your time and don't look down.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as the tower may be closed during inclement weather.
  • Consider combining your visit with a hike on the nearby Arizona Trail or dispersed camping in the Kaibab National Forest.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Grand Canyon Village, head east on Desert View Drive (Highway 64) for approximately 13 miles. Look for Forest Road 310 (FR 310) on the right, an unpaved but generally well-maintained gravel road. Follow FR 310 for a short distance; the lookout tower will be on your right. Parking is available across the road from the tower. There are no entrance fees for Grandview Lookout Tower. Note that during peak season, parking may be limited.

Unlock the Best of Grandview Lookout Tower

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Grandview Lookout Tower

The Grandview Lookout Tower stands as a testament to the U.S. Forest Service's commitment to fire detection and control. Constructed in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), the 80-foot steel tower was part of a network of fire watch structures strategically placed throughout the Kaibab National Forest. Before these towers, fire guards patrolled the forest on horseback, but the elevated vantage point of the towers proved to be a more effective method for spotting fires in their early stages. The tower itself is a classic example of CCC-era construction, featuring an open-frame steel design with a 7-foot square cabin at the top. A small, two-room cabin sits near the tower. Visitors can climb the metal staircase to enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Canyon and the San Francisco Peaks. The surrounding area offers dispersed camping, hiking trails, and access to the Arizona National Scenic Trail. Today, the Grandview Lookout Tower is a popular destination for those seeking a quieter experience near the Grand Canyon. While the view may not showcase as much of the canyon as other viewpoints, the tower provides a unique perspective and a sense of history. The tower was added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 28, 1988.

Popular Experiences near Grandview Lookout Tower

Popular Hotels near Grandview Lookout Tower

Select Currency