Grand Canyon Majesty: Hermit-Tonto-Kaibab Backpack Route

Skip the popular rim-to-rim-to-rim backpack and do this gorgeous Grand Canyon loop instead: Hermit-Tonto-Kaibab.

Greg Heil

Images

Description

The most renowned backpacking route in the Grand Canyon is easily the Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim route, which is essentially just a glorified out-and-back across the canyon. Why hike the same trail twice when you can instead complete an incredible loop through Grand Canyon National Park by using the Hermit, Tonto, and Kaibab trails?!

This loop "features some of the best scenery the canyon has to offer,” according to writer Jason Weiss. "It also can be customized due to the well-designed trail system in the Grand Canyon,” he continues.

We attempted to include as much customization as possible in this guidebook. Not only do the routes here outline the basic loop itself, but we’ve also included numerous optional side trips to gorgeous viewpoints along the route. Add in as many—or as few—of the side hikes as you’d like.

However you choose to tackle this backpacking route, you’re guaranteed to have the time of your life!

Adventures

Hermit-Tonto-Kaibab Loop: Hermit Trail to Monument Creek Camp

Day one of a spectacular route through the Grand Canyon.

Granite Rapids

Side trip to one of the largest rapids in the Colorado River.

Hermit-Tonto-Kaibab Loop: Monument Creek to Indian Garden Campground

Day two traverses the magnificent Tonto Platform as you make your way across the Canyon.

Plateau Point

Must-do side trip to one of the finest spots in the Grand Canyon.

Hermit-Tonto-Kaibab Loop: Indian Garden to Cottonwood Campground

Day three traverses the famed Colorado River and heads up the North Kaibab Trail

Hermit-Tonto-Kaibab Loop: Cottonwood to Bright Angel Campground

Another beautiful day on the North Kaibab Trail with a fantastic side trip to Ribbon Falls.

Clear Creek Trail

A less visited trails that provides fantastic views of the Colorado River and the canyon.

Hermit-Tonto-Kaibab Loop: Bright Angel Campground to South Rim

The final day of the loop ascends the beautiful South Kaibab Trail to the South Rim.