GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK – HERMIT’S REST TO SANTA MARIA SPRING

The Grand Canyon is a World Heritage Site and is one of the most spectacular examples of erosion anywhere in the world. The views from the rim of the canyon are nothing short of spectacular, and people come from all over to see them. This hike starts at the Hermit’s Rest parking area at 6640 feet and about 8 miles from the El Tovar Lodge at the South Rim of the Park. In the summer months, a shuttle bus may be required to reach the parking area and trailhead.

The descent down to Santa Maria Spring follows the Hermit Trail for the majority of the hike. Only 1/4 mile from the spring, the Hermit Trail meets up with the Dripping Spring Trail which will take you to Santa Maria Spring and a rest area. The rest house at Santa Maria Springs is 1,640 feet below the Hermit’s Rest parking area, so save your energy and load up on water. It’s a long, dry hike back to the trailhead.