Dripping Springs

An out-and-back trail run to a year-round spring.

Trail Running Difficult

Distance: 10 km
Ascent: 737 m
Descent: 737 m
Duration: 1-2 hrs

Low Point: 1.6 km
High Point: 2 km
Gradient: 16˚

Starting at Hermits Rest, this out-and-back run visits a reliable spring located in a quiet alcove of sandstone cliffs. Breathtaking views of the dramatic red rock landscape are abundant throughout the run, and the spring welcomes runners with plenty of shade on a hot summer day.

Grand Canyon National Park: Starting Down Hermit Trail: 3937 Photo: Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park: Hermits Rest 007 Photo: Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park: Hermit Trail: Waldron Trail Junction 3781 Photo: Grand Canyon National Park

Description

Drinking water, restrooms, and a cafe make the developed trailhead ideal to stage a run. The Grand Canyon also offers a free shuttle to Hermits Rest from the Grand Canyon Village and Visitor Center. Check the latest schedule here.

This run starts the same as the Hermit Trail, and even follows its briefly to a trail junction within the canyon. After a steep descent, keep left on the Dripping Springs Trail to head to its namesake feature.

"The path is the only major Grand Canyon South Rim route that does not descend to the river or meet the Tonto Trail," according to The American Southwest. That said, there are plenty of options for longer runs by way of the Hermit or Boucher Trails that lead deeper into the canyon.

Source: https://www.americansouthwest.net/arizona/grandcanyon/dripping-spring-trail.html