Hermit Road

The basics

Hermit Road runs from the west side of the Village Historic District to Hermit’s Rest, and is a popular destination for guided hikes, cycling trips, and scenic bus tours. The road is only open to private vehicles from December through February, so most visitors book a bus tour or take a guided hike or bike ride. A free hop-on, hop-off shuttle is available between the designated overlooks, and the Canyon Rim Trail skirts Hermit Road, making it easy to combine hiking and bus transfers along the way.

Things to know before you go

• Free hop-on, hop-off shuttle buses run along Hermit Road between March and November, stopping at the nine canyon overlooks. It takes 80 minutes to complete the round-trip ride (without getting off the bus).

• This scenic route is a must for photography enthusiasts, with unbeatable views from the designated overlooks.

• Even if you’re visiting by bus, wear a hat and sunscreen as the overlooks are exposed to the elements.

• There are restrooms at the Hopi Point overlook and at Hermit’s Rest. Hermit’s Rest also has a small snack bar and souvenir shop.

• Shuttle buses are equipped with ramps and space to carry passengers in wheelchairs.

How to get there

Hermit Road is located along the South Rim in Grand Canyon National Park and can be explored on foot, by bike, or with the park’s free hop-on, hop-off shuttle service from the covered stop just west of Bright Angel Lodge. Private vehicles are allowed along the route from December through February.

When to get there

Views are the biggest attraction along Hermit Road, so visit on a clear day to enjoy the panoramic overlooks. Expect long lines to board the free shuttle buses during the busy summer months, especially on weekends and holidays. Board the first morning bus or wait until late afternoon to visit to avoid the crowds; buses stop running an hour after sunset.

Hiking Canyon Rim Trail

Canyon Rim Trail stretches 13 miles (21 kilometers) from the South Kaibab Trailhead west to Hermit’s Rest, and the final 7.8 miles (12.6 kilometers) are alongside Hermit Road. Many visitors use the trail to take a short hike between two or more of the designated overlooks on Hermit Road, pairing the walks with transfers on the hop-on, hop-off shuttle. This easy trail is mostly paved and level, with wheelchair-accessible sections, making it an easy walk for visitors of any age.