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Hermit's Rest: A Canyon Rim Sanctuary

Discover history and breathtaking views at Hermit's Rest, a rustic landmark on the Grand Canyon's South Rim. Shuttle access makes it easy to visit!

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Hermit's Rest, designed by architect Mary Colter and built in 1914, offers visitors a unique blend of history and stunning views at the Grand Canyon's South Rim. Built to resemble a rustic miner's cabin, it provides a place to relax, shop for souvenirs, and access the Hermit Trail.

A brief summary to Hermit's Rest

Local tips

  • Take the free Hermit Road Shuttle (Red Route) for easy access to Hermit's Rest and other viewpoints along the South Rim.
  • Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the Rim Trail or explore the area around Hermit's Rest.
  • Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season (March through November).
  • Check out the antique bell from a Spanish Mission in New Mexico near the entrance.
  • During the winter months (December through February), Hermit Road is open to private vehicles.
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Getting There

  • Shuttle Bus

    During most of the year (March 1 to November 30), the only way to reach Hermit's Rest is via the free Hermit Road Shuttle (Red Route). This shuttle departs from the Hermits Rest Route Transfer stop in Grand Canyon Village, which can be reached via the free Village Route Shuttle (Blue Route) from various points in the village or the Backcountry Information Center. The Red Route shuttle makes several stops at scenic overlooks along Hermit Road before reaching the final stop at Hermit's Rest. The round trip, without getting off the bus, takes approximately 80 minutes. Shuttles run frequently, every 10-15 minutes during peak hours. There is no cost to ride the shuttle. During the winter months (December through February), Hermit Road is open to private vehicles.

  • Walking

    From Grand Canyon Village, you can walk along the Canyon Rim Trail to Hermit's Rest. The trail is mostly paved and offers stunning views of the canyon. The distance is approximately 7.1 miles (11.4 km) and takes about 2-3 hours one way. This is a great way to experience the canyon at your own pace and avoid the shuttle crowds. There are no costs associated with walking.

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Discover more about Hermit's Rest

Located at the western end of Hermit Road on the South Rim, Hermit's Rest is more than just a scenic stop; it's a testament to early 20th-century design and a gateway to the Grand Canyon's vast wilderness. Commissioned by the Fred Harvey Company and designed by architect Mary Colter, the structure was completed in 1914 as a rest area for tourists traveling along Hermit Road. Colter's design aimed to create the illusion of a natural stone formation, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The building is partially buried in a man-made hill, with exposed portions crafted from rubble masonry and rough-hewn logs. Inside, a massive stone fireplace dominates the space, adding to the rustic atmosphere. Colter even rubbed soot on the stones to give it a well-used, historic look. Originally, Hermit's Rest served as a বিশ্রাম stop for stagecoach tours and those embarking on the Hermit Trail. Today, it houses a gift shop and snack bar, offering refreshments and souvenirs to the many visitors who arrive by shuttle, foot, or bicycle. The Hermit Trail, a challenging and unmaintained path, begins nearby, attracting experienced hikers seeking a demanding descent into the canyon. From the observation area, you can often spot Hermit Rapids on the Colorado River. Hermit's Rest is also the western terminus of the Rim Trail, offering a scenic hiking option back towards Grand Canyon Village. The building itself is a National Historic Landmark, recognized as one of Mary Colter's significant contributions to the Grand Canyon's architectural heritage.

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