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Desert View Point is an area at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It sits at the eastern end of Desert View Drive, just inside the park’s east entrance.
Desert View Watchtower
Desert View Point is highlighted by the Desert View Watchtower. This 70 foot high stone building was completed in 1932 by architect Mary Colter. It was designed to resemble an Ancestral Puebloan tower.
Inside, there are murals by Hopi painter Fred Kabotie and it still contains its original furnishings.
It’s possible to climb to the top of the tower for sweeping views of the Grand Canyon.
Viewpoint
The viewpoint at the base of the tower is just as spectacular. You can easily spot the Colorado River below as well as several buttes.
The views are fantastic in every direction.
TWA-United Airlines Disaster
You’ll also find a marker and interpretive panel dedicated to the TWA-United Airlines aviation accident that occurred on June 30, 1956. A United Airlines DC-7 and TWA Super Constellation collided in mid-air at an altitude of 21,000 feet above Temple and Chuar Buttes, killing all 128 passengers and crew.
The remote area where the disaster occurred has been closed to hikers since 1956, and the remains of 29 unidentified passengers are buried at the Pioneer Cemetery near Grand Canyon Village.
Facilities
In addition to the watchtower, there’s a store, snack bar, and gas station at Desert View Point as well as a campground.
