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Grand Canyon Village, Arizona: Desert View Watchtower

On a clear day you can see 100 miles from its top, which looks out over the Grand Canyon. Far less crowded than other South Rim spots because it's far out of the way. It looks like an 800-year-old ruin, but it was designed by architect Mary Colter in 1932.

Grand Canyon National Park

Address:
Desert View Drive, Grand Canyon Village, AZ
Directions:
Grand Canyon National Park. On the north side of Hwy 64 either 25 miles east of Grand Canyon Village or 32.5 miles west of its intersection with US Hwy 89 in Cameron.
Hours:
Daily 9-5:30 (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
928-638-2736
Admission:
Park entrance fee: $25.00 per vehicle
RA Rates:
Worth a Detour
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Visitor Tips and News About Desert View Watchtower

Reports and tips from RoadsideAmerica.com visitors and Roadside America mobile tipsters. Some tips may not be verified. Submit your own tip.

Inside the tower.

Desert View Watchtower

They are allowing a limited number of people up the tower to the second- fourth floors. We spent about 15 minutes waiting in line, but it was worth it for higher views and no wind.

[Adventures Of Cluckleberry Hen, 01/09/2023]
Desert View Watchtower

On 3/20/2022 the main floor is open and free but the upper level is closed to visitors.

[Dan Stoll, 03/21/2022]

Desert View Watchtower.

Desert View Watchtower

It's a little walk to the Tower (in case you're not much for walking), but way worth it. Wow! How often do you get to see this amazing view? The price of entering the park is only $10 (if you're a senior citizen).

[cindy mcginnis, 06/06/2017]

Desert View Watchtower

Desert View Watchtower

When I was here years ago the watchtower was a gift shop and charged to climb the tower. Now, the gift shop has been moved to another building and the climb is free.

[Kris, 06/12/2015]

Nearby Offbeat Places

Grand CanyonGrand Canyon, Grand Canyon Village, AZ - 16 mi.
Lucky Nose of Famous Bronze BurroLucky Nose of Famous Bronze Burro, North Rim, AZ - 17 mi.
Dinosaur TracksDinosaur Tracks, Moen-avi, AZ - 29 mi.
In the region:
Cowboys, Indians, Rocks, Valle, AZ - 32 mi.

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