Shoshone Point to Hermits Rest Trailhead

The South Rim Trail Hike is an 18.6-mile point-to-point journey along the rim of the Grand Canyon, extending from a dirt road off Desert View Drive near Shoshone Point westward to Hermits Rest Trailhead. This comprehensive trail captures the breathtaking grandeur of the Grand Canyon, offering hikers unparalleled views, well-maintained paths, and convenient amenities along the way. Its accessibility and the multitude of scenic viewpoints make it an essential experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with options to shorten the journey by utilizing shuttle services.Elevation Change: Minimal along the rim, featuring some undulating sections.Trail Type: Consists of paved and well-maintained dirt paths, ensuring comfortable walking conditions.The hike begins at the secluded Shoshone Point, offering a spectacular and less crowded view of the canyon. Progressing westward, the trail alternates between smooth, paved sections and compacted dirt paths, accommodating easy to moderate walking. It's designed to be inclusive, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, with accessible shuttle buses available to facilitate travel along the South Rim.Key Viewpoints and Amenities:Yaki Point: Not accessible by private vehicle; reachable by shuttle or on foot, offering expansive views of the canyon.Grandview Point: A historic lookout with some of the most sweeping views of the Grand Canyon.Yavapai Point and Geology Museum: Provides educational exhibits on the canyon's geology, with restrooms and water available.Mather Point: Close to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, it's one of the most popular and accessible viewpoints.Hopi Point: Renowned for its sunset views, with shuttle stops nearby.Mohave Point: Offers stunning vistas of the Colorado River.Pima Point: Provides views of the Grand Canyon's inner gorge.Hermits Rest: Marks the trail's end, with a snack bar, gift shop, restrooms, and water available seasonally.Bathroom and Water Availability: Restrooms and water stations are available at several key points along the trail, including Yavapai Point, Grand Canyon Visitor Center, and Hermits Rest, among others. It's advisable to carry water and plan stops as some facilities may be seasonal.Shuttle Services:The Grand Canyon National Park operates free shuttle bus services along the South Rim, making it easy to access various trailheads and viewpoints without the need for personal vehicles. The shuttle offers a convenient way to explore different sections of the trail and return to your starting point.South Rim Access: https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/shuttle-buses.htm MORE INFORMATIONGrand Canyon National Park