Kolb Studio

Kolb Studio is a five-story building with 23 rooms built in rustic style that sits on the Grand Canyon rim next to Bright Angel Trail. The structure was designed to blend with the natural landscape of the canyon edge.

Brothers Ellsworth and Emery Kolb established their photography business in 1904 near Bright Angel Trail after receiving permission from the trail's owner at that time. This location became their base for documenting the canyon and surrounding region.

The brothers documented their journey on the Colorado River using a motion picture camera, and their films were shown across the United States, making them pioneers of moving image documentation in this region.

The studio now operates as an art gallery and bookstore with rotating exhibitions and hiking equipment available. The location is easily accessible on foot and offers guided visits organized through local conservation groups.

The building narrowly avoided demolition in the 1960s when the National Park Service considered removing it for not matching other structures in the area. Its survival today reflects how conservation priorities have evolved to protect historical sites.

Location: Grand Canyon Village

Inception: 1904

Architectural style: rustic architecture

Website: https://nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/art-exhibits.htm

GPS coordinates: 36.05795,-112.14256

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:48