Things to Do at Hermit's Rest

Complete Guide to Hermit's Rest in Grand Canyon

About Hermit's Rest

Hermit's Rest stands as one of the Grand Canyon's most iconic architectural treasures, designed by renowned architect Mary Colter in 1914. This rustic stone building serves as the western terminus of the Hermit Road scenic drive, offering visitors spectacular panoramic views of the Grand Canyon's vast expanse. The structure was originally built as a rest house for tourists taking the stagecoach journey to Hermit Camp below, and its design purposefully mimics the appearance of a hermit's crude dwelling, complete with an enormous stone fireplace and rough-hewn timber details. The building's unique architecture seamlessly blends with the natural landscape, featuring native stone construction and a design philosophy that emphasizes harmony with the surrounding environment. Hermit's Rest not only provides shelter and refreshments for weary travelers but also serves as a perfect vantage point for photography and contemplation. The site offers some of the most breathtaking sunset views in the entire Grand Canyon National Park, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the South Rim.

What to See & Do

Stone Architecture and Interior

Marvel at Mary Colter's masterful rustic design featuring massive stone walls, an enormous arched fireplace, and handcrafted details that create an authentic hermit's dwelling atmosphere

Panoramic Canyon Views

Experience breathtaking westward views of the Grand Canyon including Hermit Creek, Cope Butte, and the distant Colorado River winding through the canyon depths

Gift Shop and Snack Bar

Browse unique southwestern gifts, Native American crafts, and Grand Canyon memorabilia while enjoying light refreshments and beverages

Sunset Viewing Platform

Witness spectacular sunset views from the outdoor viewing areas, considered among the best sunset locations on the South Rim

Historic Hermit Trail Access

Access the trailhead for the historic Hermit Trail, which descends into the canyon following the route once used by the Santa Fe Railway

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open daily from sunrise to sunset, with shuttle service typically operating from early morning until one hour after sunset (hours vary seasonally)

Tickets & Pricing

No admission fee required beyond Grand Canyon National Park entrance fees ($35 per vehicle for 7 days, $30 per motorcycle, $20 per person on foot/bicycle)

Best Time to Visit

Early morning for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, or 1-2 hours before sunset for optimal lighting and photography. Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer the most comfortable weather

Suggested Duration

Allow 1-2 hours for visiting the building, viewing area, and light refreshments; add 2-4 hours if combining with hiking portions of the Hermit Trail

Getting There

Hermit's Rest is accessible via the free Hermit Road Shuttle (Red Line) from March through October, with shuttles departing every 15-30 minutes from the Village Route Transfer stop near Grand Canyon Visitor Center. During winter months (November-February), visitors can drive their personal vehicles along the 7-mile Hermit Road. The shuttle makes several stops along the route including Trailview Overlook, Maricopa Point, Powell Point, Hopi Point, Mohave Point, and The Abyss before reaching Hermit's Rest. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes each way by shuttle, with the option to hop on and off at any stop.

Things to Do Nearby

Hopi Point
One of the most popular sunset viewing locations on the South Rim, offering expansive views and excellent photography opportunities just 3 miles east
The Abyss
A dramatic overlook providing views 3,000 feet straight down to the Tonto Platform, located 1 mile before Hermit's Rest on Hermit Road
Powell Point
Features a memorial to John Wesley Powell and offers excellent views of the central canyon, accessible via the Hermit Road shuttle
Hermit Trail
A challenging 9.7-mile hiking trail that descends into the canyon, offering access to Dripping Springs and Hermit Camp ruins for experienced hikers
Grand Canyon Village
The main hub of South Rim activities featuring historic buildings, restaurants, shops, and the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, located about 7 miles east

Tips & Advice

Arrive early in the morning or plan to stay for sunset to avoid peak crowds and experience the best lighting conditions
Bring layers of clothing as temperatures can vary significantly between rim and canyon depths, and weather can change quickly
Pack plenty of water and snacks if planning to hike any portion of the Hermit Trail, as it's a strenuous unmaintained trail
The shuttle can get very crowded during peak season, so allow extra time for travel and consider walking between some viewpoints along Hermit Road

Tours & Activities at Hermit's Rest