Find stillness at Hermits Rest | Grand Canyon’s hidden corner

Hermits Rest

Tucked away at the far end of Hermit Road, Hermits Rest is a peaceful spot with a touch of history and sweeping views of the Canyon. Originally built in 1914 as a rest stop for stagecoach passengers, it now serves as a scenic and quiet finale to the South Rim’s westbound journey. Designed by famed architect Mary Colter, this stone building blends perfectly with the surrounding landscape, making it a great place to pause, reflect, and take in the stillness of the canyon.

Plan your visit

Timings

Location

Accessibility

Amenities

It is open year-round, but timings vary by season:

8am–8pm during summer (June–August)
9am–5pm during winter (December–February)

It sits at the western end of Hermit Road on the South Rim, about 7 miles west of Grand Canyon Village. It’s the final stop on the red shuttle route.

Access varies by the season:

During the spring (March–May), summer (June–August), and fall (September–November) seasons, it is only accessible by the free Hermit Road Shuttle. Park your vehicle at the Grand Canyon Village and board the shuttle.
During the winter (December–February), private vehicles are allowed on Hermit Road.
The shuttle buses and restrooms are wheelchair accessible.
The building has a paved, level entrance.
Although the viewpoint is nearby, the path to it is uneven and not wheelchair-friendly.

Gift shop
Snack bar
Restrooms
Water bottle filling stations

A brief history

Hermits Rest was built in 1914 as a resting spot for tourists visiting by stagecoach. It was designed by Mary Colter, one of the few female architects working in the Southwest at the time. Her goal was to make it look like it had always been there — rugged, aged, and part of the land. The giant fireplace, stone walls, and rustic details are all part of that illusion. Despite its “old” look, it was purpose-built for comfort and tourism.

Frequently asked questions about Hermits Rest

Is there an entry fee to visit Hermits Rest?

No. Once you’re inside the Grand Canyon National Park (which requires an entrance fee), there’s no extra fee to visit Hermits Rest.

What can I shop for?

The gift shop at Hermits Rest is a charming little stop for souvenirs, snacks, handmade Native American crafts, jewelry, and even a cup of hot cocoa if you're visiting in winter.

Are restrooms available?

Yes, they are. They are wheelchair accessible, too.

Can I refill my water bottle here?

Yes, filling stations are located outside, behind the main building.

Can I charge my phone at Hermits Rest?

There are no public charging stations at Hermits Rest, so bring a power bank or come charged.

Are there any nearby viewpoints?

While there aren’t any designated “viewpoints”, the views outside Hermits Rest are still worth a glance. Plus, you passed several iconic overlooks like Hopi Point and Pima Point on the way there via the shuttle route.

Can I access hiking trails from Hermits Rest?

Yes. The Hermit Trailhead is just a short walk west of the rest area and leads deep into the canyon. It’s steep and rugged, so it’s best for experienced hikers.