I was driving West late in the evening staring at the setting sun last July, 2012. I had to decide which was worse- being tired AND not being able to see while driving, or stopping, knowing that I would hear trains all night as per others' reviews. Train whistles won out over ambulance sirens or worse if I fell asleep at the wheel (!)
Front desk clerk was pleasant, and although appearing to have some difficulty walking, was happy to take me upstairs and show me an available room which I then booked for the night. When asked, she happily informed me that "our" trains came through Peach Springs at least once every thirty minutes and were required to blow their horns each times as they passed through the small crossing just outside.
The room was quite large, modern, well appointed and clean. Not bad considering the rather remote location. I did not notice any smells, and the bed as very comfortable.
Local native fare from the restaurant that evening was pretty good. Large portions, stew overly thickened with cornstarch, and otherwise lots of carbs, but nice and spicy. Staff there were friendly and helpful.
I had read some reviews saying otherwise about the staff in general, but I noticed that when confronted by a group of 6 or 7 arrogant tourists demanding this and that and exchanging snide glances with each other all the while, the staff were much LESS helpful, but I in no way blame them. It may be due in part to having a hard time understanding accents of those from other countries. At any rate, I was put off by the group's behavior myself. I feel I was friendly and in return was treated in a friendly and respectful manner, was told things about the area, shown about the property, etc. and thus have no complaints.
I actually enjoyed the train sounds for the first couple of hours. Often the trains were just 10 or 15 minutes apart. When I was tired enough, I popped in my handy ear plugs in and slept quite well.
I didn't have time to explore the south rim more this trip, but was a bit surprised that a rather substantial fee would be charged to travel the dirt road through the "rez" (Hualapai reservation) to get there. I would like to do that at a later date, though, and experience the glass walkway over the canyon.
Breakfast was so-so; it is a bit of a turn-off to walk by the hot items for tour groups, knowing that your minimalist fare was in the next room ONLY.
This is an isolated location. When traveling outside of tour groups, don't expect much to see or do nearby; if you book a tour or pay the fare to drive to the canyon itself you will see and do more. The lodge has some cultural things to keep your interest for a short while but nothing else to speak of outside within walking distance.
All in all, for what I needed, I am glad I stayed and would stay again when in the area.