Desert View Tour
Explore the historic Desert View Watchtower. This tour offers a deep connection to Grand Canyon's history, culture, and natural beauty.
Photo: David Wallace
- Dates:
Saturdays
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trip Length: 4 Hours
- Cost: $100/person
- Group size: 4-14
Embark on a 4-hour journey to Desert View alongside your expert Field Institute instructor, who will bring Grand Canyon's story to life! Explore the historic Watchtower, learn about the connection between Grand Canyon and the 11 tribal communities who call it home, and delve into architect Mary Coulter’s fascinating legacy. You will also have the opportunity to experience cultural demonstrations while taking in some of the most breathtaking views in North America. This tour offers a deeper connection to the canyon's history, culture, and natural beauty.
Itinerary: Meet your instructor at the Visitor Center Plaza Park Store, where your journey kicks off. Your instructor will drive the group to Desert View, explaining the features along the way with a potential stop at Lipan Point. Upon arriving at Desert View, enjoy a private tour inside the Watchtower, afterwards you you will have time to meet and chat with the cultural demonstrators. On the way back to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center Plaza, your instructor will ensure you don't miss stunning scenic overlooks like Yaki Point.
What's included
Price for the class includes:
Our expert instructor.
Gear lists.
What's not included
You are responsible for:
All of your gear
Water and food
Transportation to and from the canyon.
Lodging during your trip.
Guide gratuity (industry recommendation 15-20% of trip cost, read this article to receive more guidance).
Cancellation Policy
If a cancellation is made more than 72 hours before the start of the tour, a 50% refund will be issued. If the cancellation is made within 24 hours of the tour's start, no refund will be provided, and the full program fee will be retained. All reservations retain a 10% administrative fee.
Reserved spots are transferable to different trips, if there is availability. This transfer can occur up to 14 days prior to the trip's start date.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute reserves the right to cancel all or a portion of a trip due the following circumstances; failure to meet the participant minimum and loss of scheduled staff due to injury or illness. In this event, participants will receive a full refund.
In addition, Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute may cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather events, natural disasters, park closures, and health emergencies, and there is no alternative trip available to you. In this event, if Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute cancels 5 days or more prior to departure, the customer will receive a full refund. If the trip is a day or private program and GCCFI cancels 4 days or less the customer will receive trip credit.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute is not responsible for: flight tickets, visa fees if applicable, gear, medical expenses, clothing, and any expenses occurred while preparing for this trip.
We highly recommend the purchase of trip insurance to help offset any cost incurred if cancellation occurs.
Testimonials
The Zelkovic Family
“Our day with the Field Institute exceeded all our expectations and we came away with a great respect for the canyon and for the work of the Conservancy. It was such a wonderful experience from beginning to end and hope we can return in the not so distant future to participate in one of your multi-day programs.”
The Jankowskis
“Our family’s experience was nothing short of amazing! Slim (our guide) provided a perspective we would have never been able to get on our own and we learned so much. Her passion for the canyon and what she does came through too, which made our time something we’ll never forget!”
Amy Waits
“The guides were awesome – so educational and patient!!! Encouraging & helpful in every way. Such an amazing first visit to the canyon – Life changing to have experienced the GC up close & personal… Thank you so much!”
Joe Sweeney
“I've brought many school groups to the Field Institute and the quality of instruction provides them with an understanding of Indigenous cultures, diverse ecology, and geologic history. Students leave with a stronger sense of self-confidence, an intimate connection to nature, and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Andy M.
“Top to bottom, the Field Institute exceeded all of my expectations .... they ensured we packed wisely for our trip and saved me from lugging around 5 lbs. of junk I didn't need. Overall, it's packed with value that I don't think commercial outfitters would provide and delivered a deeply rich experience.”
