Desert View Watchtower: The Grand Canyon’s Eastern Balcony
An eastern rim lookout where Mary Colter’s architecture meets Colorado River drama—how to see the Grand Canyon beyond the selfie
The first thing that hits you at Desert View is the scale—the canyon unspooling like an ancient map, layers of rock folding away into a horizon so wide your eyes need a moment to catch up. You stand on the easternmost developed rim of Grand Canyon National Park, where the Colorado River makes a decisive turn and the valley seems to inhale and exhale in slow, geological time. The Desert View Watchtower perches here like a stone lighthouse, its battered silhouette a deliberate echo of ancestral architecture and a human attempt to meet the canyon’s immensity with dignity.
Trail Wisdom
Time your visit for golden hour
Aim for early morning or late afternoon—light is softer, shadows reveal the canyon’s layers, and crowds thin at Desert View.
Respect altitude and sun
The rim sits high; drink water, apply sunscreen frequently, and wear a brimmed hat to avoid dizziness or sunburn.
Bring a telephoto and a wide-angle
Wide lenses capture the sweeping rim; a telephoto isolates river turns, condors, and distant rock features.
Honor the cultural spaces
The Watchtower interior contains Indigenous artwork—move slowly, keep voices low, and follow posted guidelines.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lipan Point for dramatic sunrise vistas with fewer people
- •Little Colorado River Gorge overlook—vivid blue water and colorful walls
Wildlife
Mule deer, California condor (rare sightings)
Conservation Note
The park enforces no-drone rules, Leave No Trace principles, and works with Indigenous communities on interpretive materials—respecting artifacts and staying on marked paths helps protect fragile sites.
Desert View Watchtower was designed by architect Mary Colter and completed in 1932 as a cultural and interpretive landmark on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflower contrasts on the rim, Mild hiking conditions
Challenges: Unpredictable weather during storms, Possible late snow at higher elevation
Spring brings pleasant temperatures and clear air—excellent for rim walks and guided tours, though occasional cool snaps and wind are possible.
summer
Best for: Long daylight for photography, Helicopter and jeep tours
Challenges: High daytime heat, Peak crowds and limited parking
Summer is busy and hot; plan for early starts, carry ample water, and book tours in advance to avoid sold-out slots.
fall
Best for: Crisp, clear vistas, Fewer crowds and ideal light
Challenges: Cooler nights and variable wind, Shorter daylight hours
Autumn is the sweet spot—milder temperatures and rich light make Desert View especially rewarding for photographers and hikers.
winter
Best for: Snow-dusted rim scenes, Quieter viewpoints
Challenges: Icy trails and limited services, Cold winds and potential closures
Winter offers dramatic contrasts and solitude but requires warm layers, traction for icy patches, and flexible plans in case of closures.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
3L hydration packEssential
Keeps water accessible for rim walks and long tour days in heat.
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Support and traction for uneven rim trails and short descents.
Windproof shellEssential
The rim can be breezy and cold; a lightweight shell blocks wind without bulk.
Wide-angle + 70–200mm lens (or zoom)
Wide for panoramas, telephoto for river turns, wildlife, and distant details.
Common Questions
Is there an entrance fee to visit Desert View Watchtower?
Yes—Desert View is inside Grand Canyon National Park. Park entrance fees apply per vehicle or per person for non-driving visitors; a National Parks Pass is accepted.
Can you climb the Watchtower?
The upper observation platform is accessible via interior staircases; availability can vary and some areas may be closed for maintenance—check the park site the day of your visit.
Are drones allowed at Desert View?
No. Drones are prohibited within Grand Canyon National Park without special permits.
What’s the best way to avoid crowds?
Visit at sunrise or late afternoon, choose weekdays, or join smaller private or shuttle-based tours that plan early-lookout stops.
Can I combine Desert View with other sites in one day?
Yes—many operators run day trips linking Desert View with Grand Canyon Village, Wupatki, Sunset Crater, or Tusayan; self-drivers can also make a full loop with planned stops.
Is Desert View family-friendly?
Yes—the watchtower and rim overlooks are suitable for most ages, but supervise children near cliff edges and on tower stairways.
What to Pack
Hydration (3L), sun protection (hat + SPF), layered windproof jacket, camera with extra batteries—each item addresses altitude, exposure, and long daylight in the canyon.
Did You Know
Desert View Watchtower was designed by famed architect Mary Colter and completed in 1932 to honor Indigenous architectural styles and to serve as an interpretive feature of the park.
Quick Travel Tips
Buy a park pass in advance; arrive early for parking; bring layers for wind and sun; book guided tours or helicopter flights ahead during peak season.
Local Flavor
Cultural ties run deep: stop at Cameron Trading Post on your return for Navajo frybread and handmade jewelry, and look for Hopi and Navajo art influences in the Watchtower murals—support local artisans and ask about the stories behind the crafts.
Logistics Snapshot
Know-before-you-go: Grand Canyon entrance fee required; watchtower open seasonally—check NPS; limited services at Desert View—fuel and food are best arranged in Tusayan or Flagstaff; no drones.
Sustainability Note
Stay on designated trails, pack out trash, avoid collecting artifacts, and support local Indigenous-owned businesses when purchasing art or tours.