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Scenic drive · Grand Canyon Village, Arizona
Hermit Road
About an 11 km road along the south rim, from Grand Canyon Village to Hermits Rest, with nine overlooks. From March to November it’s accessible only by the park shuttle, on foot, or by bicycle.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Hermit Road
Hermit Road runs along the south rim west of Grand Canyon Village for about 11 km to Hermits Rest, a stone shelter designed by architect Mary Colter in 1914. Along the way there are nine overlooks, each with a different view: Maricopa Point, Hopi Point, Mohave Point, The Abyss and Pima Point, among others.
From several of them you can see the Colorado River down below, unlike the overlooks near the visitor center. Hopi Point, which juts out over the canyon, is one of the most popular spots for sunset, and from Mohave Point you can hear the rush of rapids on calm days.
From March 1 to November 30, the road is closed to private vehicles, and access is by the park’s red-route shuttle, which stops at each overlook on the outbound trip. You can also walk along the Rim Trail, which follows the road, or cycle. From December to February private cars may drive the road.
At Hermits Rest there is a small shop and the trailhead for the Hermit Trail, which is more demanding and not regularly maintained.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to four hours by shuttle, with stops.
Best time
Late afternoon, for the sunset at Hopi Point or Mohave Point. Shuttles are usually crowded at that time.
How to get there
The red-route shuttle departs from the transfer stop west of Grand Canyon Village, next to Bright Angel Lodge. From December to February you can drive there by car.
Tip
On the return trip the shuttle stops at only some overlooks. To photograph the sunset, get off at your chosen overlook in advance and check the time of the last shuttle.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hermit Road
Can you drive Hermit Road?
Only from December to February. From March 1 to November 30 the road is closed to private vehicles and access is by the park shuttle, on foot, or by bicycle.
Which Hermit Road overlook is best for sunset?
Hopi Point and Mohave Point are the most sought-after, with westward views and views of the Colorado River. Arrive early, as shuttles fill up in the late afternoon.
How long does Hermit Road take by shuttle?
The round trip without getting off takes about 90 minutes. With stops at the overlooks, allow two to four hours.