Home » Attractions » Desert View Watchtower
Desert View Watchtower

Desert View Watchtower

The Desert View Watchtower, also known as the Indian Watchtower at Desert View, provides panoramic views of the Grand Canyon’s expanse.

This is an idyllic place for sightseers looking for the perfect viewpoint.

Desert View Watchtower, Entry Cost, Sunrise & Sunset, Grand Canyon AZ

The watchtower was designed by Mary Colter in 1930 and drew inspiration from Native American watchtowers. Three years later, the Watchtower was opened and dedicated in a colorful ceremony. Located on the eastern end of the canyon’s South Rim, the watchtower attracts millions of visitors each year.

The watchtower’s structure includes a large circle at the northern end of the tower, and a smaller circle at its southern end. A gentle arc links the two circles, with more than five stories within the smaller circle. One of the most outstanding features of the Desert View Watchtower is its native stone exterior.

The tower’s exterior is an eclectic mix of smooth and coarse stones used interchangeably. This was meant to create a primordial aura while adding visual depth and interest to the structure. A walk into the tower leads up to the circular balconies on the walls’ edges and stairways that connect the different floor levels.

Walk up to the upper-most observation area and look out through the plate-glass windows to soak in the stunning beauty of the southwest. This is the highest point to see the Canyon’s eastern and southern edges and appreciate the breathtaking desert view.

In addition to the views, the Desert View Watchtower provides services within easy reach. Stop by at the General Store to get some supplies ahead of the making trip across the Grand Canyon. There is also a deli where visitors get to enjoy a menu of southwestern treats.

The Desert View Trading Post is the perfect pit stop to fuel up and unwind, with excellent options for the sweet tooth. The Trading Post is also ideal for getting souvenirs and genuine memorabilia from Native American artists.

The Desert View Watchtower undoubtedly offers the best views of the Canyon, giving visitors a whole new appreciation of its true majesty.

About the author

Michael Jones

Michael created and runs the Las Vegas Travel Hub website, as well as the Holiday Point travel brand that incorporates a network of 16 location based travel information and attraction websites around Australia, Asia, and around the world.

With 25+ years of online experience and a passion for travel (having visited Las Vegas many times and had the times of his life), Michael not only researches and writes content for the website, he also tinkers behind the scenes with the website functionality & design.

Please reach out if you have any questions or suggestions.

Do You Have a Question to Ask?

Click Here to Ask a Question

What is the Desert View Watchtower address?
What are the Desert View Watchtower opening hours?
Spring hours:
Watchtower Kiva Shop: 9am - 5pm
Watchtower Stairs: 9am - 4:30pm

Spring hours:
Watchtower Kiva Shop: 9am - 5pm
Watchtower Stairs: 9am - 4:30pm

Summer hours:
Watchtower Kiva Shop: 8am - 7pm
Watchtower Stairs: 8am - 6:30pm

Fall hours:
Watchtower Kiva Shop: 8am - 6pm
Watchtower Stairs: 8am - 5:30pm

Please visit our website for more information on the Desert View Watchtower.
What are the Desert View Watchtower entry prices?
Weekly Passes
Vehicle Permit: $35
Motorcycle Permit: $30
Individual Permit: $20 per person

Entrance Fee-Free Days
Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.
First day of National Park Week
National Park Service Birthday
National Public Lands Day
Veterans Day

Please visit our website for more information on the Desert View Watchtower.
What is the Desert View Watchtower phone number?
What is the Desert View Watchtower email address?

Weather Forecast

LAS VEGAS WEATHER