The free shuttle bus service provided by the National Park Service on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park transports millions of visitors annually to viewpoints, trailheads, restaurants, hotels, and visitor centers. One of the most popular routes traverses the seven-mile Hermit Road (formerly West Rim Drive) from the Historic Village District to Hermits Rest.
To avoid traffic congestion during peak season, shuttle buses are the only authorized vehicles on this route from March through November. They stop at a number of the most dramatic scenic overlooks in the park, including Maricopa, Powell, Hopi, Mohave, and Pima Points. However, during the winter months of December through February the shuttle bus service is suspended, and personal vehicles are allowed on Hermit Road.
This is a fine time to grab a picnic lunch, pack your camera, and spend some quality time on this stretch of pavement that hugs the rim of the canyon. There is a walking trail between the road and the rim as well for those who prefer to get some exercise. Note that this road is often closed during and shortly after heavy snowfall.
