As the result, the Supai section of the Hermit Trail has been badly damaged by the same erosional forces that shaped the larger canyon. Hikers must scramble across chaotic jumbles of rocks washed down or fallen from above every time the trail crosses a gully. It is possible to loose the trail entirely where breakdown has covered the original route so pay attention at these crossings.

The most dramatic detour up and around a deteriorated area comes at the bottom of the Supai just above Cathedral Stairs. The uncertain footing as well as the impression of exposure presented here has caused inexperienced canyon walkers to conclude that they are engaged in a truly hazardous enterprise. NPS photo by Michael Quinn

To learn more about backcountry hiking in the Grand Canyon: http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/backcountry.htm

Download the Hermit Trail Route Description here: http://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/upload/Hermit_Trail.pdf