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A Trail, a Camp, and a "Hermit"
Directly behind you, looking down into Hermit Canyon, you can see part of Hermit Trail and the remains of 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 tolls 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.
A Santa Fe Grand Canyon Trip
After arrival at the Grand Canyon Village train depot, Santa Fe patrons travelled 9 miles by open-top touring stage to Hermits Rest, 1 mile west of here. A mule ride to the river and overnight stay in a tent at Hermit Camp completed their two-day adventure. Cost: $18.25.
Santa Fe Railroad cared about patron comfort. Tents included stoves, glass windows, real beds, and wooden floors covered with Navajo rugs. Cabins eventually replaced tents. The camp even had telephone service. An aerial tramway from here at Pima Point carried supplies to Hermit Camp.
In 1928, the Federal Government gained control of the Bright Angel Trail at Grand Canyon Village and tolls there ceased. With free use of that more-convenient trail, the Santa Fe abandoned Hermit Camp.
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. |