Hermit Trail, Historic trail in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Hermit Trail is a hiking route in Grand Canyon National Park that descends 13.7 kilometers from the canyon rim to the Colorado River. The path cuts through steep switchbacks and reveals multiple layers of rock formations that show the canyon's geological story.
The Santa Fe Railroad built this route in the early 1900s as a free alternative to an existing trail that charged visitors a fee. This creation opened access to the canyon for more hikers who sought to avoid toll payments.
This trail passes through lands that hold deep meaning for Native American tribes, and visitors can find evidence of ancient settlement along the way. The path connects modern hikers to the long history of people who have traveled these same routes.
Hikers need to bring plenty of water and sturdy equipment because this trail is very demanding and drops sharply downward. The best preparation is physical training and understanding that this is a serious undertaking, not a casual walk.
The trail passes through different rock layers where visitors can spot fossilized animal tracks in the Coconino Sandstone from prehistoric times. These hidden details tell stories of creatures that moved through this landscape long before humans arrived.
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