Overview

Hype:

Desert View is the eastern-most developed area on the South Rim of the park. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, the Watchtower was constructed in 1932. Architect Mary Colter’s design takes its influences from the architecture of the Ancestral Puebloan people of the Colorado Plateau. This particular tower was patterned after those found at Hovenweep and the Round Tower of Mesa Verde. Colter indicated that it was not a copy of any that she had seen, but rather modeled from several. The view from the Watchtower provides a unique perspective of the eastern portion of Grand Canyon. From here, looking to the northeast offers a distant glimpse of the Colorado River's transition from the relatively narrow Marble Canyon to the north into the much wider, broader expanse of Grand Canyon. This lower floor of the tower, the View Room, is modeled after a traditional Native American kiva, and hosts cultural handicraft demonstrations throughout during most of the year. A Grand Canyon Conservancy Park Store is also located here. The Upper floors of the tower are open when staffing allows. Capacity is 25 people at one time. At ticket system admits 25 people at a time with a 20 minute time limit.

Time:

Fees: Park Entrance

Recommended Ages: