Grand Canyon Hermit Trail 4-Day
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Overview:
The Hermit Trail is an extremely challenging route which follows a side canyon down into the inner canyon. This route is considered a ‘threshold’ trail so no maintenance occurs; this means we may cross rockfall zones, areas where the trail has been washed out or covered with boulders and rocks. This route is approximately 10 miles from the rim to the river, has extreme exposure in certain locations and has sweeping views highlighting the beauty of this incredible route.
This route is not recommended for children. It is okay for strong novice to intermediate hikers, and those with limited or no experience in desert environments.
Challenge:
Additional Trip Information:
Getting to Grand Canyon: The closest public airport to Grand Canyon is in Tusayan but this has extremely limited flights. It is best to consider flying in to either Flagstaff [1.5 hour drive], Phoenix [3.5 hour drive] or Las Vegas [3.5 hour drive]. You will need to rent a car or hire transportation to Grand Canyon Village to meet your guide.
Accommodations: Prior to heading to the backcountry you will need to secure accommodations. This can be found either in Grand Canyon Village [El Tovar Hotel, Bright Angel Lodge, Yavapai Lodge, Maswik Lodge, or Mather Campground] or in Tusayan [10 minutes South of the park entrance] or Williams [1 hour South of the park entrance].
Park Entry: To enter Grand Canyon National Park you need either a valid National Parks Pass, Military ID, or be prepared to pay the entrance fee [$20 as of 2023].
Passports: Not required for this adventure.
Options: This hike can be enjoyed as a shorter hike [3 days] if preferred. A 2 day option is not available.
What’s Included:
A certified and highly experienced 4Points Grand Canyon Hiking Guide
All meals on trail
Permits and campsites for the duration of your time in the Grand Canyon Backcountry
What’s not included:
Gratuities: 15-20% gratuity recommended for guide
Price: $1850 per person/4 day
Group Size: Regular group size is 6 [which includes 1 guide]; large group size is 11 [which includes 2 guides]. Large group sites can be very difficult to secure during peak season [March to September]. Please contact us directly regarding large groups.
Participant Requirements: Clients need to be physically capable of descending into and climbing out of the inner canyon. This is a 5,000-foot elevation change. The Hermit Route is not recommended for children or families. Be mindful of the intense summer heat within the canyon (temperatures can exceed 120°F). Additionally, ensure you can carry a 35-40 lb pack for the duration of your trip.
Itinerary:
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Meet with your guide for a pre-trip orientation to discuss logistics, hand out gear, and talk about what to expect on the trail. Meals and lodging will be on your own either in Grand Canyon Village, locally in Tusayan [10 minutes from the park], or in Williams [about one hour South of the park entrance].
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Distance: 9.3 miles
Elevation Loss: 3,700 feetThis adventure begins with our group meeting in Grand Canyon Village. We start our adventure with a bus ride to the Hermit Trailhead, located about a 25 minute ride from Grand Canyon Village. Our route begins to descend immediately, and our first goal is to reach Santa Maria Springs. This small spring has year-round water and a beautiful shade structure. You can begin to appreciate the intense scale of the canyon as we hike along soaring cliffs, with epic vistas and ever-changing colors. This route will challenge you with its mileage and long descent. Our campsite will be in Hermit Canyon with flowing water, small waterfalls, shade, and gorgeous views.
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Distance: 1.6 miles
Elevation Loss: 1,200 feetAfter a hearty breakfast prepared by your guide, the group will explore the inner canyon by hiking along the Tonto Trail to one of several campsites. Our route will bring us to the shores of the Colorado, where we can admire the power and majesty of this amazing river; we can find safe swimming zones to cool off from the heat of the inner canyon. Our campsite will be along the Colorado on a sandy beach where we can dip our toes and appreciate the beauty of the Hermit Trail.
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Distance: 4.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,200 feetOn our 3rd day of hiking, we will either dayhike along the Colorado, or explore one of the numerous side canyons in the area. We’ll return to Hermit Canyon to camp, but we’ll still find plenty of time to swim, rest, and gather our strength for the epic hike out tomorrow.
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Distance: 8.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 3,700 feetYour guide will help you start the day early with a quick breakfast and pack up so we can hit the trail for our hike back to the Hermit Trailhead. The final ascent to the summit of the trail will challenge you; the vistas and beauty will make it all worthwhile. The final push beyond Santa Maria Springs will create lasting memories of this incredible route.
