Last updated: January 2, 2026
Place
Desert View Entrance Station
NPS/M. Quinn
Quick Facts
Location:
Desert View
Amenities
3 listed
Entrance Passes for Sale, Information - Maps Available, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present
If traveling from New Mexico on I-40 or from Phoenix on I-17, consider taking US 89 from Flagstaff, Arizona, north to Cameron, Ariz. and then west on State Route 64 to the Desert View or East Entrance of the park, where you can enjoy your first views of the Grand Canyon from Desert View.
This entrance also reduces driving time for motorists traveling to/from Southwestern Colorado and Southern Utah.
Located approximately 74 miles (119 km) from Flagstaff, Arizona, the Desert View Entrance Station serves as a second gateway to the South Rim and the primary portal to the Desert View area. The entrance is open 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.
The Desert View entrance tends to be less crowded than the South Rim's main entrance near Grand Canyon Village. Entering from Desert View can save you time waiting in the South Entrance Station's line, and make for a more relaxed experience.
During holidays, weekends, spring break and summer, avoid the crowds by starting at Desert View. Here you will find basic services including restrooms, Trading Post/ice cream/coffee, Grocery Store/Deli, Gas Station, and this historic Watchtower.
The 23 mile (34 km) scenic Desert View Drive towards Grand Canyon Village features marvelous panoramic views of Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. Parking is available at every scenic overlook. There are six developed canyon viewpoints, four picnic areas, and five unmarked pullouts with scenic views.
Entrance Fees and Passes
- You may enter the park with a Standard, Annual, or America the Beautiful Pass.
- The fee for a Standard entrance pass is $20.00–$35.00.
- As of January 1, 2026, Nonresidents (16 and over) must pay an additional $100 per person fee or hold an America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass.
- Admission to Grand Canyon National Park is valid for seven days. It includes both the South Rim and the North Rim (when it is open for the season).
- No refunds are given due to inclement weather.
At Grand Canyon National Park's Entrance Stations, credit and debit cards, digital passes, and America the Beautiful passes are accepted for entry. Cash is no longer accepted.
Group Tours
Organized, Non-commercial Groups >
Organized, non-commercial groups include church groups, college or school groups, scouts, service organizations, military, etc.
Commercial Tours
Commercial Tour Fees >
Fees are based on vehicle capacity for all tour groups and bus companies that originate outside a 100-mile (160 km) radius of an entrance station to Grand Canyon National Park. Taxis are classified as commercial tours since they do not have regularly scheduled service.
Educational Fee Waivers
Educational Fee Waivers are not issued automatically. Educational groups must apply and meet the criteria to receive a fee waiver. Details >