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Hermit Road: A Scenic South Rim Journey

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Discover unparalleled Grand Canyon views along Hermit Road: a scenic 7-mile journey accessible by free shuttle, bike, or foot!

Hermit Road offers some of the most stunning views of the Grand Canyon's South Rim. This 7-mile scenic route, accessible by free shuttle, bike, or foot for most of the year, provides access to nine unique viewpoints and a quieter, less crowded experience.

A brief summary to Hermit Rd

  • Grand Canyon Village, Arizona, 86023, US
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

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

  • Take the free Hermit Road Shuttle (Red Route) for easy access to all nine viewpoints along the road.
  • Bring water and snacks, as services along Hermit Road are limited.
  • Consider walking or biking along the Rim Trail for a more immersive experience.
  • Visit during the winter months (December-February) to drive your own vehicle along Hermit Road.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To access Hermit Road, take the free Hermit Road Shuttle (Red Route) from the Hermit Road Transfer Station, which connects with the Village Route (Blue Route). The Village Route can be accessed from various points in Grand Canyon Village, including the Visitor Center. The Red Route shuttle runs from March 1 to November 30, with buses arriving every 15-30 minutes. The round trip without getting off takes approximately 80 minutes. There is no cost for the shuttle, as it is included with your park entrance fee.

  • Walking

    From Grand Canyon Village, access Hermit Road by walking along the Rim Trail. The trail parallels Hermit Road and offers stunning views of the canyon. The Hermit Road Transfer Station, where the Red Route shuttle begins, is located a short walk from the Village. From there, you can continue walking along the Rim Trail as far as Hermits Rest. Be prepared for a strenuous hike and bring plenty of water.

  • Biking

    Biking along Hermit Road is a popular option. You can bring your own bike or rent one from Grand Canyon Village. From March to November, only shuttle buses are allowed on the road, making it a safe and enjoyable ride. You can also load your bike onto the shuttle at designated stops. Bike rentals are around $55.

Discover more about Hermit Rd

Hermit Road, formerly known as West Rim Drive, is a 7-mile paved road that stretches along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, offering access to some of the most breathtaking views. Constructed in 1934-1935, the road and its overlooks retain a historic charm.From March 1st to November 30th, access to Hermit Road is limited to the free park shuttle, providing a more serene experience without the constant traffic noise. During these months, visitors can hop on the Hermit Road (Red Route) Shuttle, which stops at nine designated viewpoints, or explore the area on foot or by bicycle. Private vehicles are only permitted during December, January, and February.Along Hermit Road, you'll find iconic overlooks such as Hopi Point, known for its classic views of the Colorado River and colorful canyon walls, and Pima Point, where you can sometimes hear the roar of the Colorado River as it crashes through Granite Rapid. Hermit's Rest, located at the end of the road, was built in 1914 by architect Mary Colter and offers a gift shop, snack bar, and access to the Hermit Trail.The road's history dates back to 1912 when it was first built as a buggy road by the Santa Fe Railway and U.S. Forest Service. Today, Hermit Road provides a unique way to experience the Grand Canyon, whether you choose to ride the shuttle, hike the Rim Trail, or cycle along the paved path.

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