Hiking is, without a doubt, the most popular activity at the Grand Canyon, but there's a scenic drive that belongs on every Arizonan's bucket list. The longest scenic route in the park, Desert View Drive is 22 miles long and showcases sweeping panoramic views of the canyon unlike anything you've ever seen.
Traveling along the Grand Canyon's South Rim for 22 miles, Desert View Drive is the longest scenic route in the park.
The drive connects Grand Canyon Village to the small settlement of Desert View, featuring seven breathtaking overlooks along the way.
Pipe Creek Vista is the first viewpoint - and what a mesmerizing scene to kick off your journey.
Just beyond Pipe Creek Vista is "Duck on a Rock," its namesake hoodoo pictured above. Do you see the resemblance?
Next, you'll come upon Grandview Point, which is among the most popular scenic overlooks in the park.
It boasts sweeping panoramic vistas of the entire canyon and also serves as the starting point for the historic Grandview Trail. This hike is undeniably gorgeous, but it isn't without danger, featuring an elevation gain of nearly 4,000 feet. If you do choose to give it a try, use caution - especially during the summer and winter months.
Moran Point, named in honor of the famous painter, Thomas Moran, comes after Grandview Point.
This unique spot showcases three distinct types of rock, offering incredible insight into the formation process of our state's most iconic natural wonder.
Immediately following Moran Point is the Tusayan Pueblo & Museum, which preserves the remains of a small Ancestral Puebloan village.
After that is Lipan Point, which overlooks several noteworthy features including powerful whitewater rapids, an active archaeological site, and a rock formation only visible from a few places on the South Rim.
The highest overlook on the South Rim is Navajo Point, which comes next.
It towers high above the rugged landscape, boasting unparalleled views of the Colorado River and Grand Canyon itself.
Last, but certainly not least, you'll reach your final destination: Desert View.
Home to the world-renowned Desert View Watchtower, a 70-foot-tall stone landmark that effortlessly blends in with the surrounding terrain. From the top floor, you can see for over 100 miles into the canyon on a clear day!
Click here to learn more about the drive.
Have you ever taken Desert View Drive? If so, which lookout point was your favorite? Tell us your thoughts in the comments, and check out our previous article for more scenic drives in Arizona.
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