It is one of my favorite places on earth. An antique outhouse, I wonder if the two holes were only in case one needed attention, or if they were used contemporaneosly?
Hello! What an incredible adventure! The Hermit Trail looks challenging but absolutely worth it for those stunning vistas and the peaceful Santa Maria Spring. Such a beautiful way to experience the Grand Canyon! ⛰For more adventures in 2025! 🙌L78
Thanks so much. I am always unsure what to put in these videos, and this one I did mostly contemporaneously, so your comment is particularly appreciated.
Great discussion and tour of Hermit. 👏👏👏 I’ve descended it twice to the Tonto, on extended hikes heading east. It’s a hard day - longer than the miles would suggest because of the deteriorated condition of the trail. Last descent(s) were in November 2023. One a day hike to Dripping Springs - before I had sufficiently altitude adapted. That was foolish, which it made it a five hour round trip with an excruciating climb to the Rim. Second descent was my fully- packed descent two days later on route to a spectacular five day solo adventure -coming out Bright Angel. I love Hermit. And yes, as a senior hiker in my 60s, it is slow going. But I do agree that the trail has deteriorated in the last couple years. I suspect a lot of rock falls from the hard winter in 2022(?) did the trick.
Sounds like an epic hiking adventure! I would love to do the overnights, but my back problems will no longer allow that, so I admire you! The solitude on that section of Tonto must be great. Nice to know it is not just me who finds the trail challenging, I was thinking it was mostly age. Happy hiking to you!
@ Yes, I have found going east on the Tonto between the Hermit intersection and Bright Angel to be the most mysterious portions of the Canyon, so far. Perhaps it’s the remote, emptiness, but I’ve had some interesting adventures, as well as very odd encounters, both times in that stretch. With your appreciation of solitude, one experience you may appreciate occurred on my third morning in 2023. I camped on a beach next to the spectacular Granite Rapids, all alone, on night two. In the morning on day three, as I picked my way up the wash toward the Monument, I had encountered less than a handful of humans since leaving Hermit campsite the prior morning. Enjoying a magical morning saunter in this deep cut, I was suddenly struck by an epiphany. I was by myself-in solitude and silent contemplation of this beautiful, astonishing creation. But … I WAS NOT alone. This was not frightening. It was a very comforting and warm feeling. As the poem says, if I had turned around and examined my footprints in the Canyon dust, I would not have been surprised to see a second set of prints. It was not rational. I’ve never experienced that feeling before. “Epiphany” seems to capture what it felt like. Happy trails friend.
I appreciate that you take your time to enjoy and let the viewer share in the enjoyment of the journey. Your videos are also appreciated for including information about the Grand Canyon’s unique history.
Thank you. I am trying to show a bit of personality in the appreciation of the Canyon. The more time I spend there, the more time I find the human history to be an interesting dynamic to include along with the spectacular natural formations. Thanks for your kind comment.
It's a fairly challenging trail, obviously less visited. Beautiful views, fascinating geological formations and rich history offer an unforgettable adventure for experienced hikers looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Grand Canyon. It's always very interesting to hear your narration accompanied by incredible footage of this area.
Thank you. Your comments are always so thoughtful. The views on the trail are limited initially, but really open up after a while. The opportunity to avoid the crowds is also a plus. I appreciate your watching!
I really enjoy these longer videos of your hikes! It is so beautiful, the views are just stunning. The smoke definitely adds to the look in the canyon. I definitely agree that you would want to watch your step in some of those areas. Going downhill is definitely harder on my knees. Going uphill is much better. Someone has liberated that bathroom 🤣 I enjoyed the sights and the history of this trail 👣 as always. Thank you for sharing! Happy New Year 🎉 I look forward to your adventures in 2025 😊
Thank you. I always appreciate your comments and kind words. Sorry about your knees. I only have on bad one, and that is enough! Let's get out there and see the world in 2025!
Really appreciate the channel and these lesser-known hikes and routes. I think I will try a start at Hermit Trail Trailhead and camp overnight at Hermit Rapids, then overnight at Horn Creek. Then 1 more night at Cottonwood Campground if I can get the permit, and hike out to the North Rim. If I can't get the Cottonwood Campground permit, I'll just hike out from Horn Creek to North Rim in one day. Best laid plans of mice and men, but this seems doable, whether or not I can get a corridor camping permit.
Sounds like a plan. With a backcountry permit, they will give you the code to the gate if it is in the high season, otherwise, you could probably take a taxi to the trailhead if you want an early start (which I would recommend). Sounds like an epic hike, with incredible views of the Canyon. Hope you get the Cottonwood permit and have a pleasant hike to the North Rim!
@@GC-Hiker I know you have a lot of experience on the East Tonto Trail between S Kaibab and Bright Angel trails. For the return N Rim to S Rim, assuming I can't get a Phantom Ranch corridor campground permit, are there any reasonable spots to backcountry camp directly off the East Tonto once outside of the S Kaibab corridor? That intersection looks like a good spot to break up the hike into two sections. I was checking Google Earth and it looks like there might be a few spots to backcountry camp on East Tonto 1/2 mile or so west of the East Tonto and S Kaibab intersection. Not sure of the exact backcountry camping rules, but Copilot suggests at least 1/2 mile off of any corridor trail and around 100 yards and out of plain sight from the Tonto. Thanks again! Your videos really have helped me sketch out the itinerary.
*Hiking in the Grand Canyon is trekking a mountain in reverse in a desert.* Except for Hermit Creek-Hermit Rapids, I have backpacked all of the route you are considering. My five treks were in April, May, and October of 2016 to 2024. Only one party is permitted to camp at Horn Creek (and at Hermit Rapids?) so availability may be an issue. Additionally, the water at Horn Creek -if any- is contaminated with radioactive uranium mine waste. East of Hermit Creek, there is reliable water at Monument Creek and Havasupai Garden (2.5 miles east of Horn Creek). I would definitely recommend camping at Cottonwood and experiencing nearby Ribbon Falls. The North Rim is closed seasonally from mid-October to mid-May. The Bright Angel Trail below Havasupai Garden and Bright Angel Campground are both currently closed for water line construction until May 15, 2025. I have backpacked the alternative route on the undulating East Tonto Trail to the South Kaibab Trail; it adds two miles between HG and Phantom Ranch. Check with the Back Country Office for most recent information when planning your backpacking trek.
@@msromike123 There is camping with a permit at Cremation Creek, about 2 miles east of the intersection of South Kaibab and East Tonto. I’ve camped there twice. There are no designated sites and zero facilities. Also expect zero water there or on the Tonto between there and Pipe Creek.
@@PC-kd7dj Thanks for all the tips. It made me realize I didn't understand the permitting process and how at-large and designated backcountry camp grounds are managed. Just spent a couple of hours reading the GC NPS website, sigh. It's a little overwhelming, but I guess if I have multiple itineraries AND win the lottery, I'll be good to go. I did find out you can't really plan to get a walk-up campground reservation in combination with an at-large use permit. To paraphrase "they are not intended for multi-night rim to rim hikes..."
If I ever get back to the Grand Canyon, there are so many trails I would love to hike that I have seen in your videos. Do you find going downhill is more uncomfortable on your knees? I prefer going downhill to uphill. The old outhouse was interesting that there were two spots to go side by side. I don't think I've seen that before!
I have a harder time going downhill. Hopefully, that will not happen to you as the years pass by. I lived in a place that still had old outhouses, and the two-hole was unusual, but not unheard of. I have no idea how often both were actually used!
It doesn't matter how many times I see thhe Grand Canyon, i want to return. Stunning. Interesting two holer.😊
It is one of my favorite places on earth. An antique outhouse, I wonder if the two holes were only in case one needed attention, or if they were used contemporaneosly?
오늘도 멋진 그랜드케이언 설명과 함께 멋진 트레일 풍경 함께 감상합니다. 끝까지 감상할게요.17:05
Thanks for watching!
Your hikes are always interesting and you provide great education and tips
Thanks for watching.
Hello! What an incredible adventure! The Hermit Trail looks challenging but absolutely worth it for those stunning vistas and the peaceful Santa Maria Spring. Such a beautiful way to experience the Grand Canyon! ⛰For more adventures in 2025! 🙌L78
Thank you!
What a trail man! Scenery is simply brilliant! So enjoyably put together 👏👏
Thanks so much. I am always unsure what to put in these videos, and this one I did mostly contemporaneously, so your comment is particularly appreciated.
Great discussion and tour of Hermit. 👏👏👏 I’ve descended it twice to the Tonto, on extended hikes heading east. It’s a hard day - longer than the miles would suggest because of the deteriorated condition of the trail.
Last descent(s) were in November 2023. One a day hike to Dripping Springs - before I had sufficiently altitude adapted. That was foolish, which it made it a five hour round trip with an excruciating climb to the Rim. Second descent was my fully- packed descent two days later on route to a spectacular five day solo adventure -coming out Bright Angel.
I love Hermit. And yes, as a senior hiker in my 60s, it is slow going. But I do agree that the trail has deteriorated in the last couple years. I suspect a lot of rock falls from the hard winter in 2022(?) did the trick.
Sounds like an epic hiking adventure! I would love to do the overnights, but my back problems will no longer allow that, so I admire you! The solitude on that section of Tonto must be great. Nice to know it is not just me who finds the trail challenging, I was thinking it was mostly age. Happy hiking to you!
@ Yes, I have found going east on the Tonto between the Hermit intersection and Bright Angel to be the most mysterious portions of the Canyon, so far. Perhaps it’s the remote, emptiness, but I’ve had some interesting adventures, as well as very odd encounters, both times in that stretch. With your appreciation of solitude, one experience you may appreciate occurred on my third morning in 2023.
I camped on a beach next to the spectacular Granite Rapids, all alone, on night two. In the morning on day three, as I picked my way up the wash toward the Monument, I had encountered less than a handful of humans since leaving Hermit campsite the prior morning. Enjoying a magical morning saunter in this deep cut, I was suddenly struck by an epiphany. I was by myself-in solitude and silent contemplation of this beautiful, astonishing creation. But … I WAS NOT alone.
This was not frightening. It was a very comforting and warm feeling. As the poem says, if I had turned around and examined my footprints in the Canyon dust, I would not have been surprised to see a second set of prints. It was not rational. I’ve never experienced that feeling before. “Epiphany” seems to capture what it felt like.
Happy trails friend.
Hello my friend, you have here again a fantastic hiking adventure video for the fully relaxed enjoyment on Thursday! Have a great New Year~
Have a great New Year to you too!
Thanks for sharing today...from the Ozarks
Thanks so much for watching.
I appreciate that you take your time to enjoy and let the viewer share in the enjoyment of the journey.
Your videos are also appreciated for including information about the Grand Canyon’s unique history.
Thank you. I am trying to show a bit of personality in the appreciation of the Canyon. The more time I spend there, the more time I find the human history to be an interesting dynamic to include along with the spectacular natural formations. Thanks for your kind comment.
Keep sharing your incredible experiences!
Subscribed ❤
Happy New Year!
Thanks so much! And a very Happy New Year to you.
It's a fairly challenging trail, obviously less visited. Beautiful views, fascinating geological formations and rich history offer an unforgettable adventure for experienced hikers looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Grand Canyon. It's always very interesting to hear your narration accompanied by incredible footage of this area.
Thank you. Your comments are always so thoughtful. The views on the trail are limited initially, but really open up after a while. The opportunity to avoid the crowds is also a plus. I appreciate your watching!
Awesome trail for a hike, thanks for the look around.
Thanks for stopping by!
Thank you! I thoroughly enjoy your videos regardless of your abilities. I am not far behind you at 62, you have been a huge help to me ❤
Thank you so much for your kind words.
I have been so curious about this hike! Great video!
Thank you. I hope to see your video of the hike and hear your opinion as well!
@ It might be a video where I try and turn around and come back! Lol. How was the climb back out?
Wonderful trail ❤ Enjoyed joining you❤️👍
Thank you for watching!
I really enjoy these longer videos of your hikes! It is so beautiful, the views are just stunning. The smoke definitely adds to the look in the canyon.
I definitely agree that you would want to watch your step in some of those areas. Going downhill is definitely harder on my knees. Going uphill is much better. Someone has liberated that bathroom 🤣
I enjoyed the sights and the history of this trail 👣 as always. Thank you for sharing!
Happy New Year 🎉 I look forward to your adventures in 2025 😊
Thank you. I always appreciate your comments and kind words. Sorry about your knees. I only have on bad one, and that is enough! Let's get out there and see the world in 2025!
Beautiful video and amazing content.
Wonderful trail ❤
You got my subscription!
Thank you!
Good info young man☺️👍👏🏻
Thank you!
Μαγευτικό μέρος ευχαριστούμε για τις πληροφορίες
Thanks for watching!
Super cool!
Thank you.
Would love to have a go on this one on my way to future hermit-ness lol - thanks for the video.
It’s a great trail! Enjoy your future hermit-ness.
We are doing a Rim to River on April 28th. We may do this on April 29th. Thanks for sharing the video!
Sounds like a good follow-up hike. I would start early, as it will likely get pretty darn hot in April. I hope you will post a video!
@@GC-Hiker We will start before sunrise, for sure. And yes, there will definitely be a video!
Really appreciate the channel and these lesser-known hikes and routes. I think I will try a start at Hermit Trail Trailhead and camp overnight at Hermit Rapids, then overnight at Horn Creek. Then 1 more night at Cottonwood Campground if I can get the permit, and hike out to the North Rim. If I can't get the Cottonwood Campground permit, I'll just hike out from Horn Creek to North Rim in one day. Best laid plans of mice and men, but this seems doable, whether or not I can get a corridor camping permit.
Sounds like a plan. With a backcountry permit, they will give you the code to the gate if it is in the high season, otherwise, you could probably take a taxi to the trailhead if you want an early start (which I would recommend). Sounds like an epic hike, with incredible views of the Canyon. Hope you get the Cottonwood permit and have a pleasant hike to the North Rim!
@@GC-Hiker I know you have a lot of experience on the East Tonto Trail between S Kaibab and Bright Angel trails. For the return N Rim to S Rim, assuming I can't get a Phantom Ranch corridor campground permit, are there any reasonable spots to backcountry camp directly off the East Tonto once outside of the S Kaibab corridor? That intersection looks like a good spot to break up the hike into two sections. I was checking Google Earth and it looks like there might be a few spots to backcountry camp on East Tonto 1/2 mile or so west of the East Tonto and S Kaibab intersection. Not sure of the exact backcountry camping rules, but Copilot suggests at least 1/2 mile off of any corridor trail and around 100 yards and out of plain sight from the Tonto. Thanks again! Your videos really have helped me sketch out the itinerary.
*Hiking in the Grand Canyon is trekking a mountain in reverse in a desert.*
Except for Hermit Creek-Hermit Rapids, I have backpacked all of the route you are considering. My five treks were in April, May, and October of 2016 to 2024.
Only one party is permitted to camp at Horn Creek (and at Hermit Rapids?) so availability may be an issue. Additionally, the water at Horn Creek -if any- is contaminated with radioactive uranium mine waste. East of Hermit Creek, there is reliable water at Monument Creek and Havasupai Garden (2.5 miles east of Horn Creek).
I would definitely recommend camping at Cottonwood and experiencing nearby Ribbon Falls.
The North Rim is closed seasonally from mid-October to mid-May. The Bright Angel Trail below Havasupai Garden and Bright Angel Campground are both currently closed for water line construction until May 15, 2025. I have backpacked the alternative route on the undulating East Tonto Trail to the South Kaibab Trail; it adds two miles between HG and Phantom Ranch.
Check with the Back Country Office for most recent information when planning your backpacking trek.
@@msromike123 There is camping with a permit at Cremation Creek, about 2 miles east of the intersection of South Kaibab and East Tonto. I’ve camped there twice. There are no designated sites and zero facilities. Also expect zero water there or on the Tonto between there and Pipe Creek.
@@PC-kd7dj Thanks for all the tips. It made me realize I didn't understand the permitting process and how at-large and designated backcountry camp grounds are managed. Just spent a couple of hours reading the GC NPS website, sigh. It's a little overwhelming, but I guess if I have multiple itineraries AND win the lottery, I'll be good to go. I did find out you can't really plan to get a walk-up campground reservation in combination with an at-large use permit. To paraphrase "they are not intended for multi-night rim to rim hikes..."
If I ever get back to the Grand Canyon, there are so many trails I would love to hike that I have seen in your videos. Do you find going downhill is more uncomfortable on your knees? I prefer going downhill to uphill. The old outhouse was interesting that there were two spots to go side by side. I don't think I've seen that before!
I have a harder time going downhill. Hopefully, that will not happen to you as the years pass by. I lived in a place that still had old outhouses, and the two-hole was unusual, but not unheard of. I have no idea how often both were actually used!