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Lookout · Grand Canyon Village, Arizona
Desert View Watchtower
A stone tower about 21 meters high designed by Mary Colter in 1932, at the eastern end of the south rim, with views of the Colorado River and the Painted Desert. It is 37 km from Grand Canyon Village.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Desert View Watchtower
The Desert View Tower stands at the easternmost point of the south rim, where the canyon makes a wide bend and the Colorado River is clearly visible far below. It was designed by architect Mary Colter and completed in 1932, inspired by the stone towers built by the ancestral peoples of the region. It is about 21 meters tall.
Inside, the walls of the ground floor are decorated with murals by Hopi artist Fred Kabotie, which depict Hopi stories and symbols. Stairs lead to the upper floors, from which you can see the Painted Desert to the east and the canyon layers opening to the west. Access to the upper levels depends on staff availability.
Desert View Drive, the roughly 37 km road that links Grand Canyon Village to the tower, is open to cars year-round and has overlooks such as Grandview, Moran and Lipan Point. The park’s east entrance is just past Desert View, on the way to Page and Monument Valley.
The area has a shop, a seasonal fuel station and a snack point.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One hour at the tower and overlook; half a day if you include Desert View Drive.
Best time
Late afternoon, with the light on the river and the Painted Desert. It’s a convenient stop for those leaving the park toward Page.
How to get there
By car, via Desert View Drive (Highway 64), about 37 km from Grand Canyon Village, or through the park’s east entrance.
Tip
Combine the tower visit with exiting via the east entrance if your itinerary continues to Page or Monument Valley: it avoids returning the same way.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Desert View Watchtower
Can you climb the Desert View Tower?
The ground floor, with the shop and murals, is usually open. Upper floors open when staff are available; check locally.
How long from Grand Canyon Village to Desert View?
About 45 minutes by car for the 37 km on Desert View Drive, without stops. With overlooks en route, allow half a day.
Can you see the Colorado River from Desert View?
Yes. From the overlook and the tower the river is clearly visible in the canyon’s bend, unlike the overlooks near the visitor center.