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A Trail, a Camp, and a "Hermit":
Looking down into Hermit Canyon, you can see part of Hermit Trail and the remains of the Hermit Camp. In 1911-12, the Santa Fe Railroad built both trail and camp to serve a blossoming tourist trade.
Why did Santa Fe build here at remote Hermit Canyon, 9 miles from the depot? By building their own trail here, the railroad avoided trails on the privately-controlled Bright Angel Trail.
With some sandstone-paved sections and rock walls along the outer edge, Hermit Trail was once considered the finest trail in the Canyon. A local newspaper in 1912 described the new trail as "a marvel of engineering skill." Though nature has since restored Hermit Trail to a rough and rugged condition, it is still very popular with backcountry hikers.
Why the name "Hermit"? Around 1891, Canadian-born prospector Louis Boucher staked claims below present-day Hermits Rest. With help, Louis carved a trail into the Canyon and for years lived alone at nearby Dripping Springs. He has been described as a kind, gentle soul. Though not a true hermit, Louis Boucher is the "hermit" for whom local features are named. |