This is a steep, marginally maintained, rocky trail that descends from the South Rim to the river, passing fossilized reptile tracks and abandoned camps from the early 1900s along the way. The trailhead is just beyond Hermit's Rest and is accessible via shuttle bus. Shade is scarce during the summer. Water is sometimes available at Santa Maria Spring, and is always available in Hermit Creek; both sources must be treated. This trail also provides access to Dripping Springs. Round-trip distances to waypoints are: Dripping Springs Trail junction (3.2 mi/5.1 km with 1400 ft/427 m of elevation change), Hermit Camp (14.0 mi/22.4 km with 3840 ft/1171 m of elevation change), Colorado River (17 mi/27.2 km with 4240 ft/1293 m of elevation change).