Grand Canyon

Desert View Ranger Programs and Events

 
A scenic view of Desert View Watchtower
 

Desert View is a small settlement on the South Rim located 23 miles/ 37 km east of Grand Canyon Village, and near the eastern edge of the canyon.

  • The East Entrance to the park is located at Desert View.
  • Arizona State Route 64, also known as Desert View Drive, is a 23 mile (37 km) scenic road that connects Desert View with Grand Canyon Village. It is open to all vehicles throughout the year, unless temporairly closed due to snow.
 
looking acros round Kiva Room of Watchtower. Large picture windows around the circumfrence alternating with stone pillars that hold up a circular log roof. Flagstone floor.
Interior of Desert View Kiva Room in the Watchtower

NPS photo

Desert View Watchtower

  • The ground level, View Room of the Watchtower and the Grand Canyon Conservancy Park Store are open. Hours: 9 am to 5 pm daily.
  • Park rangers may be available to answer questions, as staffing allows.
  • The upper floors of the tower are open, when staffing allows, from 10 am to 4 pm. Capacity is 25 people in the tower at one time. At ticket system admits 25 people with a 20 minute time limit.
 
A woman's hands are seen weaving a basket with strands of brush; in the foreground an assortment of baskets displaying different color patterns.
Tribal artisans share their heritage and craftsmanship at Desert View.

NPS photo

Handicraft Demonstrations

From March through November, Cultural Demonstrations take place at Desert View Watchtower.

  • The program provides an opportunity to interact with artisans from Grand Canyon's Tribal Communities, and for them to share their history, knowledge and skills. Details >
 

Summer Programs

These programs are only presented during the summer and they have ended for the 2023 season.

  • Desert View Sunset Talks by park rangers usually take place in the amphitheater near the watchtower on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Enjoy a program with a beautiful sunset backdrop. The talks start at 6:15 pm, and end with enough time to take pictures and enjoy the view. Topics vary.

  • The Grand Canyon Speaks guest speaker series are cultural presentations that usually take place at the Watchtower Amphitheater at 6:15 pm, and provide opportunities for members of Grand Canyon’s 11 tribal communities to share their rich history and culture through storytelling, presentations, singing, and hands-on learning.


Scroll down to view the scehdule of upcoming events at Desert View.

 

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Virtual Ranger Program

 
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Duration:
5 minutes, 25 seconds

Mary Colter was the Fred Harvey Company's Chief Designer and worked relentlessly to pursue her idea of perfection for the Desert View Watchtower. Join Ranger Amanda as she addresses the many words used to describe this tenacious woman.

 
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Ranger Programs: Additional Locations

Last updated: January 29, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 129
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023

Phone:

928-638-7888

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