Explore Desert View Watchtower
Updated: Jul 11
Grand Canyon National Park South Rim
The History of the Watchtower
The Desert View Watchtower at Grand Canyon National Park holds a rich and storied history. Designed by architect Mary Colter, the tower was completed in 1932 and stands as a testament to her vision and ingenuity. Inspired by Native American ancestral Puebloan towers, Colter sought to create a structure that would blend seamlessly with the surrounding natural landscape while paying homage to the cultural heritage of the region.
It was strategically positioned to provide visitors with a panoramic view of the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. The tower itself is constructed from local stones and showcases intricate murals and artwork created by Native American artisans. These murals depict scenes from Native American mythology and history, adding a layer of cultural significance to the structure.
Guide Book
This is the guidebook we use.
Map
We love this map for the Grand Canyon National Park
Getting to the Desert View Watchtower
The Tower is at the eastern end of South Rim Drive by the East Entrance Station. A fee or a pass is required to gain entrance to Grand Canyon National Park. The park shuttles do not run to the Tower so you will need to take your own car or a bus from the south rim Village.
Where to Stay
When visiting the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, there are several
accommodation options available. The Grand Canyon Village, located within the park, offers a range of lodging choices, including historic lodges and hotels that provide convenient access to the rim. Additionally, nearby towns such as Tusayan and Williams offer a variety of hotels, motels, and resorts for those seeking alternative lodging options near the South Rim.
The Grand Canyon South Rim offers several campgrounds for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty. Mather Campground, located within the Grand Canyon Village, is the largest campground and provides amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a camp store. Desert View Campground, located near the Desert View Watchtower, offers a more rustic camping experience with limited amenities but stunning views. Both campgrounds provide a unique opportunity to stay overnight within the park and enjoy the tranquility of the Grand Canyon under a star-filled sky.
There is also the Trailer Village RV Park that can accommodate RVs of just about any size. This is where we stay and it is very convenient to the Village.
You can see our other adventures at the Grand Canyon here.
North Rim
Toroweap Overlook
The View
The view from the Desert View Watchtower at Grand Canyon is simply breathtaking. Perched on the edge of the canyon's rim, the tower offers a commanding panoramic vista that stretches for miles. From this vantage point, visitors can marvel at the immense scale and sheer grandeur of the canyon, with its dramatic cliffs, layered rock formations, and the winding Colorado River carving its way through the landscape. It's a truly awe-inspiring sight that captures the raw beauty and natural wonder of the Grand Canyon.
