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    Desert View Watchtower

    4.8 (52 reviews)
    Open 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

    Desert View Watchtower Photos

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    Colorado river view from observation deck
    Roman P.

    This tower was a good spot to visit on our trip , it is a pretty unique building with very nice views of the canyon and has an observation deck . Also has a small gift shop inside and has a bigger gift shop next door and a place to grab some food and coffee and ice cream. One thing to keep in mind they limit the number of people allowed so there might be a bit of a wait involved . If you have a group of x number of people before they let you in x number of people have to leave. Deck and ground floor has reflectoscopes mounted around. Check it out.

    Kait L.

    The view was fantastic of course! It wasn't too busy when I went early Sunday and a Monday Afternoon. Definitely stop by the Desert View Watchtower! Nice little store inside too.

    Desert Watchtower at sunset. Cloudy sky made the horizon look like it's on fire.
    Quinn N.

    Beautiful tourist attraction on one's way to the Grand Canyon South Rim. Just be sure you're stopping by during regular business hours, or they won't let you in to check out the inside of the Watchtower. Free access and free parking (after paying the required $35 fee to enter the Grand Canyon vicinity). Restrooms and water nearby.

    Ana T.

    The Desert View Watchtower is a great place to check out the views of the Grand Canyon. There's plenty of parking, and the views are absolutely beautiful. On the day I went, they opened up the tower entrance to the upper floors at about 9 am. There is a little market and restrooms located outside of the tower.

    Reeven S.

    The Desert View Watchtower was one of my favorite places to get a glimpse of the Grand Canyon. It's approximately a 30-45 minute drive from the Grand Canyon Village, but it's well worth the journey. The drive to this destination was heavenly, with numerous lookout points along the way. While we stopped at a few of them, if you're pressed for time, I recommend skipping those and heading directly to the Desert View Watchtower, as it offers the best view along that route. In contrast to the viewpoints within the Grand Canyon, the Desert View Watchtower provides ample parking space. The path from the parking lot to the tower is ADA accessible. There is only one restroom, and the line can become quite long. The view itself is mesmerizing, offering a sweeping vista of the canyon and the Colorado River that flows through it. During my visit, it was quite windy, but I can only imagine how hot it might be on other days. The tower appeared to be blocked off (though I'm not entirely sure if access is available by purchasing a ticket).

    Ed T.

    A scenic view worth stopping when you're in the southern rim of Grand Canyon. Excellent views of the canyon and distant river along with the historic desert watchtower.

    Desert View
    Travis T.

    I've been making frequent trips to the Grand Canyon ever since I got a national park pass a couple years ago. I usually drive to the South Rim through Tusayan, but wanted to change things up on my most recent trip to get a different perspective. Desert View is a small settlement on the South Rim that is located about 20 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. This area gives you some of the first views of the Grand Canyon from the East side. The Desert View area has parking for both cars and RV's, restrooms, an outdoor visitor center, gas pumps, a trading post and a market. Nearby is also a campground. The Desert View Watchtower is an iconic structure that can be seen from quite a distance away. It was built in 1932 and designed by architect Mary Colter. You are able to enter and explore the lower level of the tower called the Kiva Room. Just outside the watchtower is Desert View Point. At this viewpoint you can see the Colorado River make a sharp 90-degree turn to the west. If you drive west on Desert View Drive, there are quite a few other beautiful viewpoints along the way until you get to Grand Canyon Village. If you are traveling on the on US 89, you can get to Desert View by turning west onto State Route 64 in Cameron, AZ. Then travel about 25 miles until you get to the East Entrance. The Desert View area is after you enter the park.

    view from one of the windows
    Fred T.

    Another fantastic feature in GCNP. Built in 1932 this four story tower allows expansive views of the Eastern portion of the park. The tower has a gift shop on the first floor and there are surrounding building and structures. There are also services at this location. In addition there is a memorial plaque for the 1956 Grand Canyon mid-air collision in which over 120 people died which occurred near, but in a closed off section of the park. This spot tends to not be as crowded as the majority of people stay near the Grand Canyon Village area. For my money it is a good way to exit the park as the road will eventually take you back to Flagstaff. In addition once you leave the park there are non GC related places to stop like the Wupatki National Monument etc.

    View from inside!
    Michael T.

    The Desert Watchtower offers a downright amazing and unique views of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. I would say that it rivals the views you can see from the South Rim. It is worth a stop if you have the time to take the back road across from the South rim entrance. Or you could always enter through the other gate. There are a couple small gift shops, a cafe, and the Watchtower itself to explore in the area. There are also a couple nice trails that go around the edge and you can get some pretty awesome views in places that are not as crowded as some of the main photograph areas. As for the Watchtower, on the inside there are some pretty amazing windows with killer views, and there is a gift shop. You can go upstairs to explore as well. On the outside of the Watchtower, there is an observation deck where you can get it even better. View of the canyon below. When we came here in late December 2021, it was freezing cold. There was snow on the ground and the surrounding mountains. It was absolutely beautiful. Next time we're down this way, will definitely explore some of the trails that start from this location as they look to be pretty epic. Five stars!

    Amazing place! Must see!!
    Tiffany S.

    This place is a must stop if you're in the South Rim. We drove from the Village, took about 25 minutes. Many stops along the way. The tower has a gift shop with t-shirts, etc. The tower has several levels you can look out windows along the way. The top is simply epic. I could have stood there all day. I can't recommend it highly enough. The gift shop and cafe on site has more gifts. The hot coffee was welcome on this snowy day.

    Karen 2.

    absolutely must see! amazing spot with outstanding views. as for the watchtower itself it's organized so it's a huge wait for folks walking up. only certain amount of ppl per time for a certain window and the line accumulated was for waiting another 20 minutes to see the top

    Utah juniper
    Olivia S.

    Absolutely breathtaking and worth the drive out!! Try to come when you are able to go up into the watchtower!

    Jessica B.

    What a beautiful place to check out. Being from Alaska, this was something crazy for my bf and I.we loved every minute of it and would 100% come back. The little stores are nice and the views of course are breathtaking

    Watchtower overlooking Grand Canyon

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    2 years ago

    Gorgeous view...tower was closed but we didn't miss anything. Really good way to see another view of canyon.

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    4 years ago

    Really pretty view! Unfortunately the watch tower was closed but still was able to get photos! Can't wait to see how they turned out!

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    Desert View Watchtower Reviews in Other Languages

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    Review Highlights - Desert View Watchtower

    Desert View is a small settlement on the South Rim that is located about 20 miles east of Grand Canyon Village.

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    Desert View Entrance Station

    Desert View Entrance Station

    4.6(23 reviews)
    0.6 mi

    This was my first time entering through this station on a recent trip to the Grand Canyon. I…read moreusually go through Tusayan to the South Rim. The South Rim station can busy during peak times. Desert View Station only had a few cars in line on the day I was here. Desert View Entrance Station serves as a secondary gateway to the South Rim and the primary portal to the Desert View area. It is open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week. There is also a gas station nearby if you are running low. Desert View is a small settlement on the South Rim that is located about 20 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. Within the area is the iconic Watchtower structure. The view here is the first glimpse you get of the Grand Canyon. If you are traveling on the on US 89, you can get to Desert View by turning west onto State Route 64 in Cameron, AZ. Then travel about 25 miles until you get to the Desert View (East) Entrance. The Desert View area is after you enter the park. Entrance is free with a national park pass.

    Have you ever considered not writing a review for fear that people will read it and mess up a good…read morething? I have thought long and hard about writing this review for that very reason. After much contemplation I realized that most people don't really read reviews, so I am here to help out those that do. Made it this far? Listen up. If you are visiting Grand Canyon National Park, you owe it to yourself to enter via the Desert View Entrance Station. Ignore the main entrance at all costs. What makes this entrance so special? A lot. The drive - The drive to this entrance is beautiful. Most of the area leading up to the park is reservation land. The views are spectacular. There is considerably less traffic driving this way. If you get stuck behind a slow moving RV it sucks for a little while, but there are plenty of opportunities to pass. The entrance - Once inside the park the cost is the same as at the main entrance. The staff were very friendly and there was no wait at all. Gas - Want to buy some expensive ass gas? There is a station right near this entrance. I would fill up here just to say you did, but it will const considerable more than stations in town. Convenience - I hate riding the bus. The buses are filthy, the buses are nasty, the buses are not new. Not really, but I always wanted to say that in a review. Inside jokes are the best. But really, there are many viewpoints that can be accessed by this entrance where you can park and take in the view. Most people are entering from the main gate and so driving from this gate means way less crowds. If you made it this far, congratulations. Give me a high five when you see me for sharing this knowledge with you.

    Photos
    Desert View Entrance Station
    Desert View Entrance Station
    Desert View Entrance Station

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    Grandview Point - Still patches of snow early April

    Grandview Point

    4.6(14 reviews)
    9.6 mi

    Increíble lugar! Tal cual lo esperaba muy limpio y bien cuidado! Espectacularrrrr! Únicamente hice…read moremiradores pero he visto otra gente que hizo helicóptero y una excursión en el agua. Será mi próximo viaje! También vimos que hay buses que llegan hasta ahí

    Grandview Point is the start of the Grandview Trial to Horseshoe Mesa campground or further onto…read moreCottonwood Creek backcountry campground at the base of the Grand Canyon. At the overlook, there is plenty of parking and a separate lot for overnight campers. The lot will take you steps away from the overlook. Although breathtaking views, this side has no Colorado River. It's a dry scenic view (we went first week of April). The area is well maintained with bathrooms and water station at the top, but the Grandview Trail itself is not. Read up and prepare if you're planning to hike this trail; it was one of the most difficult and scary-sketchy hikes in my life so far. We hiked all the way down to the base where Cottonwood campground is. The initial trail was sketchy as it is. Going down from the overlook, some parts of the trail were barely a foot wide, and there was an area of crumbly red clay-type dirt that was sloped over a cliff that gave me the sweats and some anxiety when crossing. Once you get past the beginning sketchiness, it's not so bad, but there were various areas of rockslide to keep you on your toes to find the trail again. Keep in mind you're going into the canyon, so the entire way is clamoring down loose rocks. Keep those laces tight! Let's avoid another toenail-less summer! A good part of the switchbacks were paved with stone steps that reminded me of the Yellow Brick Road. I loved them; easy to walk on and less slippage going both down or back up. We started late and out of the we total trek, 4 miles we did in the dark with headlamps and sticks, so it is totally doable! Cottonwood's creek was but a tiny trickle when we got there. The seclusion is well worth the trek though. You do need to get a backcountry permit to camp here and there are no reserved numbers for the sites. It's first come first serve. I was told the entire way from viewpoint to Cottonwood was 5.6 miles one way, but honestly, it felt like 7 miles. Going back up was killer! Incline the entire way, but I promise you'll come out of there with some amazing glutes and calves. Would I do it again? Maybe need a break in between to forget about all the pain and suffering, while I look at all the amazing photos I got along the way. Then yes!

    Photos
    Grandview Point
    Grandview Point - Looks like a miniature version of the Slot Canyons

    Looks like a miniature version of the Slot Canyons

    Grandview Point - Bones along the trail

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    Bones along the trail

    Tusayan Museum And Ruin

    Tusayan Museum And Ruin

    3.9(12 reviews)
    3.1 mi

    Do not pass up this museum and ruin…read more On my first few trips to GCNP I noticed the sign for this museum, but never actually stopped. Like most folks I was focused on the overlooks and ignored this spot. After visiting I am kicking myself for being so shortsighted. This place is great. The museum is small yet very informative. It showcases the people who lived here and has several neat items on display. The things that I found so interesting were their dolls and figures made from twigs. Several were on display and they helped give you a picture into the lives of these people who lived here 800 years before. The ruins are similar to the pueblo style ruins throughout this region. They are less intact than some at the nearby Wupatki so do not expect large free standing pueblos. Despite that, it was pretty easy to walk around and get a feel for their living space. The most impressive point to me was the view of the nearby San Francisco peaks. That view must have been pretty terrifying when the volcano exploded. I hope you heed my advice and add this to your itinerary.

    The Tusayan Museum and Ruins is located within the Grand Canyon National Park. It's just a short…read moredistance from the Desert View Park. Parking was easy and plentiful and after parking you will see signage leading you to the trail. They also placed signs along the wooded trail explaining the small ruins of a 800 year old ancestral Puebloan village. Afterwards you can step back in time while visiting the small museum of handmade crafts by regional tribes and artifacts that date back as far as 2000 to 4000 years. I learned a lot about the prehistoric people and the surrounding land. In the museum there is a small gift shop that offers typical tourist merchandise at a reasonable price. The staff was very friendly.

    Photos
    Tusayan Museum And Ruin
    Tusayan Museum And Ruin - Katsina spirits

    Katsina spirits

    Tusayan Museum And Ruin - Ruins

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    Ruins

    Dinosaur Tracks - Filing a police report about assault incident.

    Dinosaur Tracks

    4.2(97 reviews)
    28.7 mi

    This is a quick and quirky roadside stop where there are real dinosaur tracks! We looked it up!…read moreIt's pretty amazing and there are Navajo men and women willing to walk you around to see specific fossils and tracks for donation/tip. We enjoyed the conversation and were happy to tip 20$ which felt fair--worth the stop

    DANGER! WARNING! DO NOT GO HERE! If you do not pay for a tour (which is not mandatory), you may be…read moreassaulted. We stopped here & politely turned down the optional "tour" that we were immediately pressured to take (since we just wanted to just walk around on our own). I told them we were simply going to spend a few minutes there. After about 15 minutes, as we were leaving, we were suddenly, from out of nowhere, verbally assaulted when one man began pounding on our car window and screaming at us. Then, two other Navajo guides (see photo 1)--a man and woman--began yelling at us & threatening us, telling us to "Get the F---- out of here" and "You're not welcome!" THEN IT GOT VIOLENT when one large man (see photo 2) said "You better get the F--- out of here RIGHT NOW," picked up a large rock, and actually threw it at our windshield. It cracked (see photo 3). If it had shattered, my wife would've been covered with glass. We were in shock! It had escalated from nothing at all happening to extreme violence and us being in danger in literally seconds! He then began to walk toward the car and I realized both my wife and I were in serious danger. The guy was like 6'4, 240-275 lbs and in his twenties. I am 65 years old!!! These people are not just pushy, they are extremely violent. We immediately called the police when a safe distance down the road (see photo 4) and are pressing charges. We absolutely in danger. These people practically force you to pay up (when there is no fee, supposedly)--and if you don't pay, then you will be threatened (see other 1-star reviews on YELP detailing violence & aggression & assault) and, as in our case, actually attacked -- they are very violent.

    Photos
    Dinosaur Tracks
    Dinosaur Tracks
    Dinosaur Tracks

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    Lava River Cave - Fork in the cave

    Lava River Cave

    4.7(100 reviews)
    48.5 mi

    This is the largest lava tube in Arizona and although a bit remote, very popular! I came here on a…read moreSaturday and there were many, many cars in the parking lot. It's a big lot, so there was still plenty of spaces, but I was concerned my cave experience would be full of noisy people. The entrance is a bit narrow and difficult to get down, but that is the hardest part. It runs for 3/4 of a mile underground and is a pretty unique experience to have. There were many times where I could just stop walking and turn off my light and not see anybody ahead or behind me, kind of felt like you were just floating in space! Cool natural feature not to miss if you're in the area!

    What a neat spot to visit if you are looking for a fun outdoor adventure! It was a big plus that…read morethere is a small dirt parking lot along with an actual bathroom at the trail head since there is no entrance fee I figured there wouldn't be a bathroom. This is a small cave tucked away in the woods, you'll travel down a long bumpy dirt road and your cell reception might not be the greatest. I would keep that in mind if you do not think you'll be able to climb down slippery rocks and back up again as it will take a while for rescuers to arrive if you get hurt. It was pretty neat seeing how much ice could be found just inside the entrance to the cave, I knew we would see some but I didn't expect as much as we seen. The climb down into the entrance is a little steep, and it can be wet/very slippery so wear shoes with good grip. Once you get past the initial decent the hike inside isn't too bad! There are some tighter spots, some areas where you'll need to duck down low and it is super dark so bring plenty of light sources. There were quite a few people here when we went so you won't be alone in the cave, but everyone was nice and helped make sure everyone could get past one another without any issues. There were quite a few people who visited & started to explore the cave, but realized they couldn't do it and left. Our group had three people stay behind while three explored the cave, if you end up being someone who decides not to go down there are a lot of little hiking trails around the cave. This hike can be difficult for many especially if you aren't used to hiking on uneven ground, climbing or have bad balance.

    Photos
    Lava River Cave
    Lava River Cave - 8 yrs old was a great age. Wouldn't take a kiddo younger than 5 yrs old IMO due to the slippery 45 degree angles

    8 yrs old was a great age. Wouldn't take a kiddo younger than 5 yrs old IMO due to the slippery 45 degree angles

    Lava River Cave

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    Desert View Watchtower - landmarks - Updated May 2026

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