Desert View Watchtower Grand Canyon National Park

A beautiful and unique place to visit is Grand Canyon National Park. There is a North Rim and a South Rim that you can visit. When we were in Arizona we visited the South Rim on our way back to Utah. I had never been to the Grand Canyon before and it didn’t disappoint. We previously shared about Mather Point and the beautiful views there. Today I am excited to share about the Desert View Watchtower.

Since we were driving from West to East, this was our last stop of the day. If you drive from East to West, this will most likely be your first stop. When we were there, it was very busy. I can’t imagine it is any different now. We went in October and the weather was nice. There is a bit of a walk from the parking area down to the tower. There are other places you can stop and explore on the way.

Once you get inside the tower, there is a spiral staircase to climb. There are stops along the way (but not very big ones) and lots of fun things to see as you climb. The art on the walls and ceilings are absolutely beautiful. And the views from the tower are unbeatable. There are also platforms that have fences around them so you can walk out and see the river and other landmarks.

If you have a big group or even just one other person, it is fun to get a picture of them from down below as they stand in the windows of the tower. Also be sure to get a picture from the landing.

Here are a few tips to help you when you go:

• Dogs are allowed on almost all of the South Rim trails.  On the North Rim trails, dogs are only allowed on a couple.
• If you go in summer it is very hot.  Stay hydrated and protect your skin from burns.  If you go in the fall like we did, take a light jacket.
• The drop-offs and edges are NOT all secure, so keep your eyes on your littles and your pets, and hold their hands (or leashes) tight.
• Take a LOT of pictures and be sure to be in them. That’s half the fun! (need a selfie stick?)
• Plan out your trip ahead of time so you have an idea of what you want to do. This will save valuable time.

I hope you enjoy your visit there as much as we did! It had just finished being renovated when we were there. They did a remarkable job. Here is a little more about the Desert View Watchtower:

Perched on the edge of Grand Canyon, a surprising stone tower celebrates ancient mysteries of the Southwest. The Desert View Watchtower is a monument to a time, a place and a people. Discover what inspired architect Mary Colter to build the Watchtower in 1932.

Read more about it and the history here https://www.nps.gov/grca/learn/photosmultimedia/mary-colter—indian-watchtower.htm