Hermit's Rest Grand Canyon
Historic Mary Colter rest stop at the end of scenic Hermit Road, offering unique architecture and canyon views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light on canyon
Hermit's Rest Grand Canyon
Best Time
Golden hour light on canyon
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Mary Colter rest stop at the end of scenic Hermit Road, offering unique architecture and canyon views.
"The journey along Hermit Road was the real reward, with Hermit's Rest being a charming little stop."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Plan your shuttle to arrive before sunset for stunning views, but be mindful of the last bus departure!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the trails and during your visit. Water refills are available outside the rest house.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mary Colter's Rustic Architecture
Hermit's Rest House
Admire the unique 1914 stone structure, designed by Mary Colter, blending seamlessly with the natural landscape.
Scenic Hermit Road Views
Hermit Road
Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Grand Canyon along the entire length of Hermit Road, accessible by shuttle.
Historic Fireplace
Hermit's Rest House
Discover the charming, historic fireplace inside the rest house, a focal point of its rustic design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Hermit's Rest
What to Expect at Hermit's Rest
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Hermit Road at GCNP
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Plan your shuttle to arrive before sunset for stunning views, but be mindful of the last bus departure!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the trails and during your visit. Water refills are available outside the rest house.
Mather point to Hermit point - worth it to walk it? Or just ride the shuttle?
South Rim: Places to rest along trails? 2 days with older parents who have mobility issues
🚶♀️ Explore Hermit Road
The shuttle bus stops at numerous viewpoints along Hermit Road, offering diverse perspectives of the canyon.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and potentially hiking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Plan your shuttle to arrive before sunset for stunning views, but be mindful of the last bus departure!
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the trails and during your visit. Water refills are available outside the rest house.
🚶♀️ Explore Hermit Road
The shuttle bus stops at numerous viewpoints along Hermit Road, offering diverse perspectives of the canyon.
🥾 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and potentially hiking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Don't just focus on the canyon; the historic Hermit's Rest house itself is a photographic gem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Hermit's Rest a charming historic stop at the end of a scenic route, with the journey along Hermit Road being the highlight. While the rest house itself is appreciated for its architecture and amenities like snacks and restrooms, some feel the canyon views here are not as dramatic as other viewpoints. The shuttle system is convenient, but timing the last bus is crucial.
"A Scenic Hike, A Historic Fireplace… and a Slight Oops 😅
Hermit’s Rest — what a name, right? Sounds like you’re about to uncover some ancient, mystical hideaway. Well, spoiler alert: it’s basically a cute old stone house with snacks and souvenirs. BUT — getting there? Totally worth it.
The hike out was absolutely gorgeous — nature in full HD. Birds, squirrels, chipmunks, lizards doing their little push-ups... even a deer or two giving us the classic Grand Canyon side-eye. The trail was peaceful, filled with shade, sweeping views, and that kind of crisp air that makes you question your life in the city.
Now, Hermit’s Rest itself? Let’s just say the journey was the real reward. It’s a charming little stop with history and character, but not exactly mind-blowing. Still, it felt great to kick back for a bit, grab a cold drink, and imagine what it must’ve been like to live out there as a legit Hermit.
Small confession, though... I may or may not have accidentally leaned on Hermit’s historic fireplace (yes, that fireplace), and a few ancient stones may or may not have crumbled off. 😬 But I swear I tried to put them back as best as I could! If the fireplace looks extra rustic now — that might be on me. Sorry, Hermit.
All in all? 10/10 would do again. A great hike, beautiful nature, and just the right amount of unintentional vandalism. Bring water, bring snacks, and maybe don’t lean on 100-year-old structures. 😅"
Christoph Thomas
"Hermit Rest is the western edge of the park and is a tranquil oasis nestled among the towering pine trees of the Grand Canyon's South Rim. The area is surrounded by the natural beauty of one of the world's most iconic wonders. Here you will find vault toilets, picnic areas, hiking trails, viewpoints, a snack bar and of course, a gift shop, we cannot forget that. After arriving on foot or shuttle bus, walk west along the path to the Hermit rest house, which is now the gift shop. Make sure to read the numerous informational bulletin boards along the walkway for more information about the location and its background. If you walk a little further past the rest house, you just might get luck and spot some of the local wildlife, especially during the early morning or late afternoon hours."
Thomas B
"The last stop on my Grand Canyon visit. Ended the day with a beautiful sunset and the colors were amazing of the canyon and the sky! The grand canon was so amazing and I loved all the stops. I first did the south kabob hike and view points then made my way to the west side of the canyon to hit the many view points along the ways. I probably stopped at about six viewpoints from the kabob hike/viewpoint, but there were so many other viewpoints and stops to see along the way as well, unfortunately I was running out of time and sunlight. At hermits rest there’s this viewpoint then there’s a really big cool looking hike that I didn’t get to on but it looked amazing, it will take you further west and down the canyon! There were bathrooms here and a gift shop! Plenty of parking too. I posted some of the “few” things I brought while there, lots of cool stickers and shirts and other cool finds there too. If you’re heading to this this is the furthest point you can drive on the south side visit. If your here I highly recommend coming down this far to see this or hike and the all the other amazing view points on the way. If your here I have time as well I would recommend attempting the hike or some it! The bus route can and will bring you down this far as well if you needed that. Helpful people working inside the gift shop if you had any questions as well. Enjoy!"
Josh Pease
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hermit's Rest is the last stop on the free Hermit Road (West Rim Drive) shuttle bus route. Private vehicles are generally not allowed on Hermit Road from March 1 to November 30. The shuttle bus makes multiple stops at viewpoints along the way before reaching Hermit's Rest. +1
During peak season (March 1 to November 30), private vehicles are prohibited on Hermit Road. You must use the park's free shuttle bus system. Outside of these dates, you may be able to drive, but check current park regulations.
The Hermit Road shuttle typically runs from early morning until about an hour after sunset. It's crucial to check the official Grand Canyon National Park website for the most up-to-date schedule, especially regarding the last bus departure.
There is limited parking available at the Hermit's Rest trailhead, but it fills up quickly. The most reliable way to access Hermit's Rest is via the park's shuttle bus system.
The shuttle ride from Grand Canyon Village to Hermit's Rest takes approximately 30-40 minutes, not including stops at other viewpoints along Hermit Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no separate ticket required to visit Hermit's Rest. Access to Hermit Road via the shuttle bus is free with your Grand Canyon National Park entrance fee.
Hermit's Rest itself, including the gift shop and snack bar, generally operates during daylight hours. The shuttle bus service has its own schedule, typically running from early morning to sunset. Always check the park's official website for current hours.
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Grand Canyon National Park. This fee covers access to the park, including the shuttle bus system to Hermit's Rest.
Yes, you can hike to Hermit's Rest via the Rim Trail. The Rim Trail is a paved, relatively flat path that connects various viewpoints along Hermit Road.
The primary restriction is vehicle access to Hermit Road during peak season. Otherwise, it's an open area for visitors to explore. Be mindful of the historic structure and avoid touching or damaging it.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At Hermit's Rest, you can admire the historic architecture of the rest house, enjoy snacks and drinks from the snack bar, browse the gift shop, use the restrooms, and take in the canyon views. It's also a trailhead for further exploration. +1
Yes, there are vault toilets available at Hermit's Rest. +1
Yes, Hermit's Rest has a snack bar offering a selection of food, snacks, coffee, and drinks. It's one of the few places along Hermit Road to purchase refreshments. +1
You might spot squirrels, chipmunks, lizards, and various birds. Deer are also occasionally seen, especially during early morning or late afternoon hours.
The Rim Trail leading to Hermit's Rest is paved and relatively flat, making it accessible. The shuttle buses are also equipped to accommodate passengers with disabilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewpoints along Hermit Road leading up to Hermit's Rest offer numerous stunning photo opportunities. The architecture of the Hermit's Rest house itself is also a great subject.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for canyon photography. Early mornings can also offer soft light and fewer crowds.
Photography inside the historic Hermit's Rest house is generally permitted, but always be respectful of other visitors and the historic nature of the building.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the canyon and the architecture. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant canyon details.
While there are no specific photography restrictions for general visitors, avoid using tripods in crowded areas or during peak times. Always be mindful of park rules and regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making the shuttle ride part of the adventure, letting kids enjoy the ride and the anticipation of each new view. The historic Hermit's Rest house itself can spark imagination, with its rustic charm and unique architecture. Remember to emphasize the importance of staying on trails and not approaching wildlife for their safety and the animals' well-being.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Active Travelers
While Hermit's Rest is the end of the line for the shuttle, it also serves as a trailhead for those looking for more challenging hikes. However, be aware that descending into the canyon from this point requires significant preparation, experience, and permits, as it is a strenuous endeavor. For most visitors, enjoying the Rim Trail and the various viewpoints is the primary hiking activity associated with Hermit's Rest.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and the intricate details of Mary Colter's design. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating specific formations or capturing wildlife. Remember to check the shuttle schedule to maximize your time at each viewpoint and avoid missing the last bus back.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Gem: Mary Colter's Hermit's Rest
Visitors often remark on the charming details within the rest house, from the stone work to the wooden beams. It was designed as a functional rest stop for travelers arriving at the end of the newly constructed Hermit Road, offering a place to relax, refresh, and purchase souvenirs. The interior, now housing a gift shop and snack bar, still retains much of its original character, inviting visitors to imagine the early days of Grand Canyon tourism.
It's important to note that while the architecture is a major draw, some visitors have noted that the 'hermit' aspect is more of a romanticized concept than a literal historical dwelling. However, the charm and historical significance of Colter's design are undeniable, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Experiencing Hermit Road: Views and Transportation
The shuttle bus makes several stops at designated viewpoints, including Maricopa Point, Hopi Point, Mohave Point, The Abyss, Pima Point, and finally, Hermit's Rest. Each stop provides a unique perspective of the canyon's immense scale and intricate geological formations. Many visitors recommend hopping on and off the shuttle to explore multiple viewpoints, as the views can differ significantly from one stop to the next.
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace or want to experience the road more intimately, hiking the Rim Trail along Hermit Road is a fantastic option. The trail is mostly paved and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. This allows for a more immersive experience, with opportunities to stop at less-visited spots and enjoy the tranquility of the canyon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit