The South Rim at the Grand Canyon is an amazing place in July when the monsoon storm present heavy isolated thunderstorms on a regular basis. While the weary souls are getting cooked in the basin down below; the South Rim offers an evening within the 60 degree range. Once inside the park people are given a full spectrum of lodging options starting at the high end
El Tovar to the Hermit style
Mather Campground. I opted for the later and went green with the mountain bike as the preferred mode of transportation. I recommend the Rim trail which traverses along the rim's edge for several miles offering varied viewing options. The map above outlines the path taken on the mountain bike from the campground to the Hermit's Rest trail head. This 10 mile section along the rim is astounding ride which includes several lookouts and a John Wesley Powell Memorial; along with a 3mile section of the Hermit Road Greenway trail for bicycles:
I have included several pics from the many view points available along the Hermit Road:
After bangin the pedals on the big blue beast I arrived at the Hermit Rest Trail head. A very savvy young ranger lady greeted me at the trail head and provided history and information. A small souvenir store along with a snack bar are a welcome sight for tired and hungry hikers. Hermit trail offers a couple options for water along the long traverse to the Colorado river. The Santa Maria spring enables thirsty hikers an opportunity to hydrate before hitting the steep inclines which lie above.
Starting out at 6,600 feet in elevation the weather is cool deceiving, as the day begins to heat up and the lower elevations give way to sweltering heat a hiker must be cautious. Hermits creek offers another opportunity to hydrate and cool down:
The Colorado was a welcome sight as it offered 45 degree relief to the 105 degree heat. The Colorado river has many sections with raging rapids and at the confluence of the Hermit Creek there was no exception. The remanence of previous heavy flooding leaves huge boulders which create Hermit Rapids:
This must be a popular section for rafters sliding down the river within the inner gorge. A word of caution in reference to this hike. I wasn't expecting to see anyone else challenging this Hermit in the middle of July. So, proper provisions are a must and drinking over 7 liters was invaluable. This ride/hike was a true test and was a worthy adversary.
