Navajo Point

Overview

A quick pull-off with outsized rewards, Navajo Point sits around 7,500 feet and is the highest overlook on the South Rim. It’s just west of Desert View Watchtower on Desert View Drive, making it an easy, short-stop addition to any East Rim drive.

What Makes It Special

From one spot you get big west-facing panoramas for sunset, plus eastward sightlines to the Colorado River and a postcard view of the Watchtower itself. The height here gives the scene extra drama compared to nearby stops.

What You’ll See

• The Colorado River far below and a wide sweep of canyon temples and buttes.
• A standout profile of Desert View Watchtower about half a mile away—great for photos.
• Long, layered vistas that pop in warm light.

Logistics

It’s a roadside overlook with a short walk from the parking loop to the railing. There are no facilities here—bathrooms, water, food, and a store are at the Desert View area a couple minutes east. Parking is limited and only a very small number of smaller RVs/campers fit.

Best Time to Visit

• Sunset: The overlook faces dramatically west, so color and shadows are excellent—but expect more people.
• Sunrise: Quieter and lovely side light across the walls.
• Midday: Views are still grand, but the light is harsh and crowds can swell.

Wildlife

High viewpoints like this sometimes deliver soaring birds—keep an eye out for ravens and, if you’re lucky, a California condor riding the thermals.

Photo Tips

Bring a longer lens for the Watchtower and river details, and a wide lens for the full sweep. Binoculars make spotting rafters and distant formations more fun.

Pair It With

Combine Navajo Point with Desert View (for services and the tower itself) and Lipan Point nearby for a different angle on the river corridor.