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Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon

Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon: Our most recommended tours and activities

The Grand Canyon Classic Tour From Sedona, AZ

1. The Grand Canyon Classic Tour From Sedona, AZ

Considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is a must-see. Make the most of your visit with this scenic tour filled with incredible views. Your tour begins with a ride through the scenic red rocks of Sedona, through Oak Creek Canyon — one of the top scenic drives in America. Continue through the Ponderosa Pines of Flagstaff, past the dormant volcanoes of the San Francisco Peaks, and on to the Navajo Reservation with a stop at the Historic Cameron Trading Post. Your journey continues, providing you with a breathtaking view of the western edge of the Painted Desert and the Little Colorado River Gorge on your way to the Grand Canyon. Once inside the magnificent Grand Canyon National Park, take in the beautiful views of the canyon and Colorado River at Desert View. Climb to the top of the Watchtower Observatory for amazing panoramic views. Visit the East and South Rims of the Grand Canyon from which the spectacular views of the Colorado River Gorge and the buttes of the South Rim can be viewed. Enjoy a mile-long nature walk along the South Rim to admire the natural beauty of the park. After, there is optional time to explore Grand Canyon Village, where many historic buildings are located.

From Flagstaff: Grand Canyon National Park Tour

2. From Flagstaff: Grand Canyon National Park Tour

Explore on the of 7 Natural Wonders of the world with a top-rated guided tour to Grand Canyon National Park.  Begin your day among pine trees in Flagstaff, Arizona, a charming college town high in the Arizona mountains. Sit back and relax as you are shuttled off through incredible landscape towards the gorgeous Grand Canyon. Marvel at the mighty Colorado River, take in the staggering rock formations, and enjoy the natural beauty that has captivated millions for centuries.  Learn the storied history behind the people who once roamed these lands as your guide takes you through Tusayan. Visit historic sites like the El Tovar Hotel, and the Desert View Watchtower.  Lunch is provided, and snacks and water are included as you journey through one of America's most treasured natural landmarks. Guides lead tours rain or shine, and are happy to answer questions about this popular destination.

Grand Canyon: Sunset Tour from Biblical Creation Perspective

3. Grand Canyon: Sunset Tour from Biblical Creation Perspective

Experience the Grand Canyon from a biblical creation perspective. Meeting inside the park at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center flag pole about four hours before the sun sets, the Sunset Rim Tour visits the very best locations of the South Rim’s east side. Along Desert View Drive, you will ride comfortably in our tour vehicle to each amazing overlook and vista. Once we arrive at each spot on the tour, we will hop off the vehicle for incredible views, exploration, and exciting teaching tied into everything we’re seeing. During the tour, your guide will spend time sharing about the geology, plants, animals, and people history of the canyon—and of course, the biblical message of Creation and the Flood as recorded in the book of Genesis. Near the end of the tour, we will stop at a favorite location to watch the setting sun as it disappears far to the west. Close out the day with the One who made it, on a Grand Canyon Sunset Rim Tour. Additional daily tours, backpacking, and Colorado River trips found on our Canyon Ministries website.

From Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Railroad Full-Day Guided Tour

4. From Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Railroad Full-Day Guided Tour

The Grand Canyon is one of the most spectacular “Seven Wonders of the World”! This Grand Canyon Railroad Tour offers you an up-close and personal tour of this inspiring canyon. Your Grand Canyon Tour starts off with a scenic ride from the Red Rocks of Sedona, through Oak Creek Canyon (noted as one of the top 10 scenic drives in America) and towering Ponderosa Pines of Flagstaff. After this, head to the train depot in Williams. When you board the historic Grand Canyon Railway, be entertained by cowboys and enjoy the tunes of strolling musicians as the train travels back in time during the scenic 65-mile journey to the canyon. The train offers wonderful views of the San Francisco Peaks and rolls through valleys riddled with wildflowers, dense pine forests, high desert plains, and small canyons. Upgrade your experience with a first-class ticket, which includes oversized seats, big windows, bar service, and complimentary snacks. Upon arrival at the Grand Canyon, explore the views of the canyon and the historical buildings of Grand Canyon Village. Afterward, get time to enjoy lunch on your own (lunch not included) and rejoin your guide to continue across the south rim heading east. Spend approximately 4 hours in the Grand Canyon National Park. Making your way along the canyon rim, experience the stunning views over the Colorado River Gorge. Climb up to the top of the Watchtower Observatory for magnificent panoramic views of the Grand Canyon. On the return trip, tour the East Rim of Grand Canyon National Park and see various scenic overlooks. Visit the Desert View Watchtower and the historic Cameron Trading Post on the Navajo Reservation—one of the finest places to shop for authentic Native American souvenirs. You may also visit The Gallery, home of many breathtaking pieces of fine and historic Native American Arts and Crafts.

From Sedona or Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Full-Day Tour

5. From Sedona or Flagstaff: Grand Canyon Full-Day Tour

Embark on a journey to Grand Canyon National Park. Admire the incredible views and geological wonders of Northern Arizona. Enjoy a tour fully narrated by some of the most experienced guides in the Southwest. After pickup from your hotel in Sedona, ascend the Colorado Plateau and continue through the photogenic Oak Creek Canyon. Take winding roads as you leave the red rocks behind, then stop at the tall Ponderosa Pines. Next, arrive at Flagstaff, where other travelers will join the tour. Pass by the dormant volcanoes of the San Francisco Peaks, before heading to the Grand Canyon South Entrance. Once at Grand Canyon National Park, explore historic buildings, see majestic views at Grand Canyon Village, and enjoy lunch on your own. See some of the widest and deepest scenic views of the Grand Canyon and the mighty Colorado River. Get to experience the magnificent South Rim scenery first-hand. From the South Rim, gaze 14 miles across to the North Rim. Visit the only point where you can see both Phantom Ranch, as well as the Kaibab Suspension Bridge. Your guide knows the best vistas to stop at and will make sure you get the most gorgeous, least crowded viewpoints. At Desert View, you are free to climb the Watchtower Observatory for amazing views that will leave you breathless. On your way back from the Grand Canyon, experience a view of the western edge of the Painted Desert, the Little Colorado River Gorge, and the Colorado River Gorge. Before you return, make a brief stop at the Navajo Reservation. Here you will have a chance to shop for authentic Native American souvenirs at the historical Cameron Trading Post.

Sedona: Grand Canyon Sunset Tour with Dinner

6. Sedona: Grand Canyon Sunset Tour with Dinner

Ride in comfort and style as you travel to Northern Arizona in an air-conditioned vehicle that seats no more than 14 passengers for an intimate and personal experience. Experience fully narrated tours from some of the most knowledgeable and experienced guides in the Southwest. If you are departing from Sedona, your tour begins as you ascend the Colorado Plateau through the lush Oak Creek Canyon. Over the 27 miles of winding roads, you leave the beautiful red rocks behind and ascend 2000 feet to the tall Ponderosa Pines.  Upon arriving in Flagstaff pick up the remaining guests, and travel past the dormant volcanoes of the San Francisco Peaks on your way to Grand Canyon National Park. Your first stop is at the Historic Cameron Trading Post where you will have the chance to check out the Native American craftsmanship. Then as you reach the Grand Canyon’s East entrance from the Navajo Nation, you will see the Little Colorado River Gorge and the western edge of the Painted Desert. Upon entering the Grand Canyon National Park, you will get your first views of the Grand Canyon and the mighty Colorado River at Desert View. Climb up to the top of the Watchtower Observatory, and learn about one of the achievements of famous architect Mary J. Colter. Take some time to take in the beautiful panoramic views at different viewpoints along the South Rim of the canyon. Marvel at some of the widest and deepest scenic views the Grand Canyon has to offer. From the South Rim, gaze 14 miles across to the North Rim. You will also visit the only point where you can see both Phantom Ranch as well as the Kaibab Suspension Bridge. A complimentary dinner is included on this tour. The journey culminates as your guide takes you to the ideal spot to have an opportunity to see an amazing array of colors, shadows, and lighting that are the hallmark of a Sunset at the Grand Canyon. Relax and enjoy the ride back to your hotel as you reflect on your Grand Canyon experience.

Sedona, AZ: Grand Canyon Guided Tour and Historic Railway

7. Sedona, AZ: Grand Canyon Guided Tour and Historic Railway

Considered one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon is a must-see. Make the most of your visit with this historical railroad tour. Beginning in Sedona, take one of the top 10 scenic drives in America to Flagstaff, known for its towering Ponderosa Pines. After meeting Flagstaff guests, head to the train depot in Williams and board the historical Grand Canyon Railway. Be entertained by cowboys and musicians as the train travels back in time along the scenic journey to the canyon. Enjoy wonderful views of the San Francisco Peaks as the train rolls through valleys filled with wildflowers, dense pine forests, high desert plains, and small canyons. Upgrade your experience with a first-class ticket, which includes oversized seats, big windows, bar service, and complimentary snacks. Arrive by train just steps from the Grand Canyon's South Rim and meet your guide, who will pick you up at the train depot in Grand Canyon Village. Explore the historical buildings of Grand Canyon Village before enjoying some free time for lunch. Rejoin your guide to travel across the south rim heading east. Spend approximately 4-hours in the Grand Canyon National Park. Your tour makes its way along the rim of the Grand Canyon, stopping at Grandview Point. a transitional point between the East and South Rims of the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the open views of the Colorado River Gorge afforded at the East Rim, as well as the butte-filled views for which the South Rim is famous. Later, climb up to the top of the Watchtower Observatory for magnificent views of the Grand Canyon. Tour the East Rim of Grand Canyon National Park as you make your way back to your hotel and get to enjoy sights most other visitors miss. See many scenic overlooks, the Desert View Watchtower and the historic Cameron trading Post on the Navajo Reservation. Next is a stop at the Historic Cameron Trading Post, one of the finest places to shop for authentic Native American souvenirs. You may also visit The Gallery, home of many breathtaking pieces of fine and historic Native American Arts and Crafts. Listen to interesting, informative and entertaining narration from your guide throughout your journey. View the western edge of the Painted Desert and drive along the Little Colorado River Gorge on your way back to Flagstaff and Sedona.

Grand Canyon & Sedona: Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle

8. Grand Canyon & Sedona: Self-Guided Driving Tour Bundle

Discover the staggering views of the Grand Canyon and Sedona's impressive buttes as you drive yourself through both sites with the assistance of an audioguide. Download the smartphone app to begin your self-guided tour and make as many stops as you wish to. Your Grand Canyon tour begins by the park’s south entrance, where you'll hear about the early history of this stunning place. Enjoy stops at Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and the Yavapai Geology Museum, full of insider knowledge on the canyon’s complex geology. Visit Grand Canyon Village for some snacks and souvenirs, then walk along the South Rim Trail, the park’s most popular path. Dive into the peculiar construction of the Hopi House and board the free Grand Canyon Shuttle to see Powell Point, Hopi Point, and The Abyss, before arriving at Hermit’s Rest. Enjoy some more great views, including the impressive Desert View Watchtower, before your visit is over. Move on to Sedona to begin your tour at the Chamber of Commerce/Visitor Center. Turn onto the famous Red Rock Scenic Byway and get acquainted with the spiritual history of this town. Enter the Tlaquepaque Arts Shopping Village then drive over to the towering Chapel of the Holy Cross to find the trail for Cathedral Rock, Sedona’s most famous formation. Reach the Courthouse Vista with spectacular views, then arrive in the Village of Oak Creek, full of more shops and restaurants.

Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tours Bundle

9. Ultimate Arizona Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tours Bundle

Take advantage of your time in Arizona to discover its 3 biggest natural and cultural attractions: the Grand Canyon, Sedona, and Horseshoe Bend. Simply download the tour app and guide yourself through exciting driving and walking adventures using the audio narration and your phone's GPS. Once downloaded, your Grand Canyon tour begins near the park’s south welcome sign. Visit Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and the Geology Museum, before heading over to Grand Canyon Village for snacks and souvenirs. Walk along South Rim Trail and hear about the peculiar Hopi House. Board the free Grand Canyon Shuttle and stop at some incredible vistas, including Powell Point, Hopi Point, and The Abyss. More great views await you back east at Pipe Creek Vista and Grandview Point, as well as the impressive Desert View Watchtower. The tour concludes here. Your tour of Sedona begins at the Visitor Center. Drive the Red Rock Scenic Byway and learn about the spiritual history of this town. Explore the Tlaquepaque Arts Shopping Village, the Chapel of the Holy Cross, Cathedral Rock, and the Courthouse Vista. End your tour in the Village of Oak Creek. Head on over to the trailhead for Horseshoe Bend to hear about the early days of the Colorado River and how the current formation was created. Arrive at Horseshoe Bend and admire the jaw-dropping views of the landmark. Take a guided driving tour through Page, the town where this site is located.

Grand Canyon: Private Day Hike & Sightseeing Tour

10. Grand Canyon: Private Day Hike & Sightseeing Tour

By far our most popular hiking tour, our private day hike and tour can be a "best-of-both-worlds" tour of the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. You can choose an experience on the South Kaibab Trail where you will enjoy a 3/4 mile hike out to Ooh Aah Point (known for its overwhelming views) followed by a South Rim sightseeing tour to various viewpoints along the rim. Or you can choose a full day interpretive hike on a trail chosen with the principles of "safety, fun, and learning" by your guide with input from your private group. We commonly use Bright Angel, South Kaibab, Grandview, and the Hermit trails. Our Private Day Hike includes round trip transportation from all Hotels, Bed & Breakfasts, and RV/Campgrounds in Flagstaff, Williams, Tusayan, Valle, and Grand Canyon Village. This is a full-day tour and pickup and drop-off times depend on your stay place. After your front door pickup, you will enjoy a scenic drive to the Grand Canyon South Rim where there will be a short orientation before beginning the hike. Our Professional Guides are experts in the most incredible places and the best times to visit viewpoints in Grand Canyon National Park. If you choose to go above and below the Rim, we may visit the following viewpoints as time permits: South Kaibab Trail - This well-maintained corridor trail offers spectacular views of the Grand Canyon. We use this trail for the hike out to Ooh Aah Point. We will enjoy lunch at this viewpoint. Grand Canyon Village - This section of the park contains a number of historic buildings, the Grand Canyon Railway Station, shops and restaurants. Yavapai Point - This vista is the most expansive view of Grand Canyon and is home to Mary Colter's Yavapai Observation Station. Mather Point - This viewing area is quite extensive - the point has two narrow, railed overlooks built on projecting rocks and is beside the Visitor Center. Grandview Point - This viewpoint was the original destination for Grand Canyon Tours, which started in 1892 by Pete Berry as a copper mining operation. This viewpoint is reached by a one-mile side road, that juts out on a peninsula providing expansive views of the Grand Canyon. A full day hike may start here. Moran Point - This viewpoint offers far-reaching views along a wide section of the Grand Canyon, approximately between river miles 87 and 72. The point is due south of Cape Royal on the North Rim. Tusayan Ruins - The Tusayan Ruins and Museum are excellent places to take a glimpse into the lives of the native peoples of the region. Lipan Point - This vista has the best view of the Colorado River on our Daily Grand Canyon Tour and is a favorite stop for our guides as well as guests. Desert View - This is the easternmost viewpoint at Grand Canyon National Park and home to Mary Colter's historic Desert View Watchtower. The tower was built in 1932, right on the cliff edge and visible for many miles across this part of the Canyon.

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What people are saying about Desert View Watchtower, Grand Canyon

Overall rating

4.8 / 5

based on 523 reviews

Al was informative, funny and very helpful. Lots of anecdotes and trivia made it interesting, start to finish. He kept us safe all day at every vantage point. Really enjoyed our day at the Grand Canyon.

Charlie was excellent Very knowledgeable great running commentary and skilful driving in challenging conditions Book this tour and ask for Charlie

It was a fantastic tour. My girlfriend and I learned so much history and the viewpoints were incredible. Sheldon our tour guide was great!

Excellent tour and was able to experience the one of great wonders of the world.

Well executed tour with a knowledgeable and considerate guide.