Hermit's Rest, Grand Canyon Travel Guide

4.7 (2632)

Discover rustic charm and breathtaking views at Hermit's Rest, a historic Grand Canyon landmark designed by Mary Colter.

Hermit's Rest, designed by architect Mary Colter in 1914, is a historic stone structure at the western end of Hermit Road on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Built to resemble a rustic dwelling, it offers stunning canyon views, a gift shop, and a snack bar.

A brief summary to Hermit's Rest

Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hermit's Rest.

During the busy season (March 1 to November 30), access to Hermit's Rest is only via the free shuttle bus.
Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure a seat on the shuttle bus.
Take time to explore the viewpoints along Hermit Road for diverse canyon vistas.
Refill your water bottle at the provided station, especially if you plan to hike.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Grandview Point

Mather Point

Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Desert View Watchtower

Navajo Point

Explore Hermit's Rest on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hermit's Rest, mapped for you.

Getting There

Shuttle Bus

During most of the year (March to November), the only way to reach Hermit's Rest is via the free Hermit Road (Red) Route shuttle. This shuttle departs from Grand Canyon Village. From the Visitor Center Shuttle Bus Terminal, you can board a free Village (Blue) Route shuttle which connects to the Hermit Road Route. The Hermit Road Route takes you along Hermit Road, with several viewpoints, to Hermit's Rest, which is the last stop. There is no cost for the shuttle.
Walking

Hermit's Rest is the western terminus of the Rim Trail. You can walk along the Rim Trail from various points in Grand Canyon Village. The entire distance from Grand Canyon Village is about 8 miles. The path offers stunning views of the canyon. There are no costs involved.
Personal Vehicle

During the winter months (December to February), Hermit Road is open to personal vehicles. From Grand Canyon Village, follow the signs for Hermit Road. Drive west for 8 miles to reach Hermit's Rest. There is a parking lot at the end of the road. Note that there is a $35 entrance fee per vehicle to enter Grand Canyon National Park, which is valid for 7 days. Parking is free.

Discover more about Hermit's Rest

Nestled into a man-made earthen hill at the Grand Canyon's South Rim, Hermit's Rest is a unique building designed by Mary Colter to appear as if it were built by an early settler using only hand tools and local materials. Commissioned by the Fred Harvey Company in 1914, it served as a rest stop for tourists traveling along Hermit Road.Colter's design incorporates native stone and a rough, uneven exterior to blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Inside, visitors are greeted by a large stone fireplace and a spacious, two-story-high main room. The building features a gift shop and snack bar, offering refreshments and souvenirs.Located at the western end of Hermit Road, Hermit's Rest provides access to incredible views of the Grand Canyon. The Hermit Trail, a challenging hiking path descending into the canyon, begins nearby. The building itself and some of its furnishings are part of a National Historic Landmark designation.