Guided Hermit Trail backpacking trip

Hermit Trek Adventure

  • Location: Grand Canyon South Rim, Arizona
  • Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Season: November 21-25, 2026
  • Price: $1,800 per person
  • Dates: November 21, 2026

Journey into one of the Grand Canyon's most scenic and less-traveled backcountry regions featuring rugged desert terrain, hidden creek oases, waterfalls, and unforgettable nights beside the Colorado River.

Approximate mileage: 24–30 miles. Route: Hermit Trail → Monument Creek or Hermit Creek → Granite Rapids or Hermit Rapids → Hermit Trail Exit.

Trip highlights

  • Hermit Trail western canyon vistas
  • Monument or Hermit Creek camp
  • Granite or Hermit Rapids on the Colorado River
  • Polished rock corridors & hidden pools

Itinerary

  1. Descent via Hermit Trail Guests meet at the Grand Canyon Backcountry Information Center at 7:00 AM before taking the park shuttle to Hermits Rest. The Hermit Trail quickly leaves the developed South Rim behind while descending through layered sandstone cliffs and expansive western canyon views. Depending on permit availability, camp is established at either Hermit Creek or Monument Creek.
  2. Down to the Colorado River Corridor The route continues deeper into the canyon toward either Granite Rapids or Hermit Rapids. This section features polished rock corridors, waterfalls, hidden pools, and dramatic Colorado River scenery. Camp is established near the river corridor beneath towering canyon walls.
  3. Layover Day at the River A full day at the river to soak in the experience. Time to explore side canyons, watch rafts run the rapids, swim in quiet eddies, photograph the cliffs at golden hour, and rest before the climb back up. Camp again near the river corridor.
  4. Return Toward Upper Camps Guests gradually make their way back toward either Monument Creek or Hermit Creek while enjoying additional time to explore the surrounding canyon environment. The slower pace allows opportunities for photography, relaxation, and learning about the geology and ecology of the Hermit region.
  5. Exit via Hermit Trail The final day climbs back toward the South Rim along the rugged Hermit Trail while offering expansive western canyon vistas throughout the ascent.

Included

  • Professional licensed guides
  • Backcountry permits
  • Group camping gear & cooking equipment
  • Three meals per day on trail
  • Park shuttle to Hermits Rest

Not included

  • Personal backpacking pack & sleeping system
  • Travel to and from the Grand Canyon
  • Lodging before & after the trip
  • Gratuities
  • Park entrance fees

Meeting point

Grand Canyon Backcountry Information Center, 7:00 AM

Trail maps for this trip