Hermits Rest - Colter's Cabin at Road's End

Photo: Grand Canyon National Park, CC BY 2.0 (cropped)

A stop on Grand Canyon South Rim, a free self-guided tour.

At the end of Hermit Road, Mary Colter built a rest stop in 1914 that looks as if a hermit had piled it up by hand. It is partly tucked into an earth mound, with rough stone walls and a big rubblestone chimney, designed to look like part of the landscape. Inside, a huge arched alcove wraps around the fireplace, the room's warm centerpiece.

The hermit was Louis Boucher, a Canadian-born prospector who lived below the rim from about 1891, working mining claims and guiding a few visitors. Colter liked to give each building a story, and this one plays the part of a rustic hideout.

Hermits Rest still works as a snack bar and gift shop. Near the building, the steep Hermit Trail heads down into the canyon; it is rough and best left to experienced backpackers. Before you catch the shuttle back, refill your water and pass under the stone arch with its old bell near the entrance path.

Getting here: Ride the Hermits Rest shuttle to the end of the line.

Did you know?: Louis Boucher is said to have ridden a white mule and kept a garden and orchard near his camp at the bottom of the canyon.

Photo op: Frame the rough stone arch and its hanging bell with the low stone building behind.

Nearby: Restrooms, water and a snack bar at Hermits Rest; check current hours.

More on Wikipedia: Hermits Rest · Mary Colter · Hermit Trail

Hermits Rest - Colter's Cabin at Road's End

Stops on this tour