The Hermit's Cabin / Cave House

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While driving through Utah’s West desert, it may appear to be barren and dry without much to see. However, if you are willing to get off the road and explore, you will find beautiful unique locations hidden in this expansive desert landscape.

One such location is located 45 miles west of Delta, Utah, where the old highway 6 and 50 made its way through Marjum Pass. This beautiful desert canyon with its towering walls is home to the now historic location called the Hermit’s Cabin or some refer to it as the Hermit’s Cave House.

The Hermit's Cabin was constructed by a man named Bob Stinson. Bob served his country in World War I and upon his return to the states, he learned his fiancée didn’t wait for him and married another man. This news devastated Bob, so he decided to pack up his things and travel to Delta, Utah to visit his brother in 1929.

While making his way through the Marjum Pass, Bob's house on wheels broke down. Looking for shelter Bob located a small natural cave on the side of the mountain. By using local rock, he enclosed the front of the cave which is now known as the Hermit's Cave House, or Hermit's Cabin. Bob was often called the Hermit of Marjum Pass.

The government paid him to keep the pass clear of debris, as it was at that time the major east/west highway from Delta to Nevada. To earn extra spending money, he trapped bobcats and coyotes, mixed poisons for the government to kill grasshoppers, and he even raised a handful of sheep. When Bob had visitors, out of the greatness of his heart, he would offer them a glass of home brew.

In 1951 Bob lost his road job when the new paved highway was built several miles to the south. Bob, then in his 70's, moved into Delta to be near a few more creature comforts. At the age of 80 when Bob passed away, he was cremated, and his ashes were spread at the base of the rock house he built in Marjum Pass.

Planning Your Visit:

If you plan on visiting this unique historical location, please go prepared. The Hermits cave is located in a very desolate area of Utah’s West Desert. The road through Marjum Pass can be rough during the summer and sometimes impassable during the winter months. A high clearance vehicle is recommended. Be sure you have a spare tire, and it has air. The road can be very rocky and flat tires are common. Always carry plenty of food and water just in case. Please protect the Hermit's Cave for many more generations to come. Please don't lean on the walls and don't leave your mark in any way. Always pack out your trash.

Wildlife Viewing:

As you explore and make your way to the Hermit’s Cave, you may have the opportunity to see wild horses, mule deer, rabbits, and many different birds of prey.

Driving Directions:

From Delta, travel west on highway 6 & 50 for 33 miles and turn right at the U-Dig Fossil sign. Travel north on the gravel road for 10.4 miles to a 4-way intersection. At this intersection, turn left to the Marjum Pass; drive west for 12.8 miles. The rock house is in a narrow canyon, which is the last small side canyon on the north side of the Marjum Pass Road.