Hermits Rest Access

Best Time to Visit

Riding the shuttle during its March-through-November season lets you see all nine overlooks along the way, a richer trip than driving straight there during the winter open-road window.

Trail Tips

• The Canyon Rim Trail runs parallel to the road for those who'd rather walk the 7.8 miles between viewpoints.
• The Hermit Trail, a steep unmaintained route into the canyon, begins about a quarter mile west of the building.
• Fill up at the water bottle station here — it's the only one along Hermit Road.

Getting to Hermits Rest

From March through November the road is shuttle-only for private vehicles — hop the free Hermit Road (Red) Route bus, an 80-minute round trip that stops at nine overlooks including Trailview, Hopi Point, Mohave Point, and The Abyss before ending at Hermits Rest. December through February the road opens to personal vehicles under 22 feet, with no shuttle running. Hikers, bicyclists, and runners can use the road year-round.

What to Expect at Hermits Rest Access

Hermits Rest sits at the far western end of Hermit Road, 7 miles from Grand Canyon Village, and this is the access point that gets you there. Hermits Rest itself is a 1914 stone building designed by architect Mary Colter to resemble a miner's cabin, with a giant alcove fireplace, gift shop, snack bar, restrooms, and water bottle fill-up.