Near Shoshone Point to Hermits Rest Trailhead
Near Shoshone Point to Hermits Rest Trailhead
Near Shoshone Point to Hermits Rest Trailhead
Near Shoshone Point to Hermits Rest Trailhead
Near Shoshone Point to Hermits Rest Trailhead

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Shoshone Point to Hermits Rest Trailhead

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A scenic 16.5-mile point-to-point hike along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, starting near the secluded Shoshone Point and traveling west past iconic viewpoints and Grand Canyon Village to the historic Hermits Rest.
16.6
mi
Distance
703
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
Less CrowdedViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
16.55mi
Distance
703ft
Elevation Gain
1,261ft
Elevation Loss
60%
Max Grade
7,302ft
High Point
6,640ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
The Shoshone Point to Hermits Rest Trailhead route is a 16.5-mile point-to-point hike along the spectacular South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Beginning near the overlook of Shoshone Point, the route travels westward, passing the canyon's most iconic viewpoints before ending at the historic Hermits Rest. The trail is mostly flat and easy to navigate, transitioning between paved asphalt and well-maintained packed dirt, making it highly accessible and easy to customize using the park's free shuttle system. The eastern portion of the hike begins near Desert View Drive, heading out to the secluded Shoshone Point which offers panoramic views away from the larger crowds. From Shoshone Point, the route heads west past Yaki Point and the South Kaibab Trailhead, where it joins the paved Rim Trail. Hikers pass Pipe Creek Vista, the highly popular Mather Point near the main visitor center, and Yavapai Point, home to the Yavapai Geology Museum. Continuing west through the historic Grand Canyon Village, the route transitions onto the Hermit Road Greenway. This scenic section winds along the rim, offering views of the Colorado River and the inner gorge from overlooks such as Maricopa Point, Powell Point, Hopi Point, Mohave Point, Pima Point, and The Abyss. The journey concludes at Hermits Rest, a historic landmark designed by Mary Colter, which features a gift shop, snack bar, and seasonal water.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Lani Advokat