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The Boucher Trail
(pronounced Boo-shay) is usually accessed via the Hermit Trail. Hike
the Hermit about two miles to the top of the Supai Formation and the
Dripping Springs Trail junction. Turn left (west) and follow the
Dripping Springs Trail to the Boucher Trail intersection. The Dripping
Springs Trail continues left and climbs toward the rim while the Boucher
heads right and starts a long traverse at the top of the Supai. The
route is across the slope, crossing numerous small, steep, washed out
drainages complicated by rockslides from the Coconino cliff above. The
route isn't always obvious, especially east of Yuma Point, so pay attention
to the way ahead.
The trail is still at the top of the Supai as it rounds
the corner below Yuma Point into Travertine Canyon. Contour at this
level a few minutes, then start looking for the place the route drops
abruptly down the slope toward the bed of Travertine Canyon. A break
in the upper cliff requires intimidating hand and toe climbing, and it is
tough going throughout the Supai. The trail is being slowly reclaimed
by erosion - steep, narrow, and covered in a layer of ball bearing-like
pebbles. Take your time!
The route drops to the Redwall rim of Travertine
Canyon, crosses to the west side of the drainage and wanders across the open
saddle between Cocopa Point and Whites Butte to the top of the gully that
plummets through the Redwall Limestone southwest of Whites Butte. The
descent to the Tonto Trail is nothing less than brutal, a physical beating
in classic Grand Canyon style. The Tonto Trail intersection is marked
by a large cairn (no sign). Turn right (north and east) along the Tonto
Platform toward Hermit Creek or turn left (west) and continue down through
the Tapeats Sandstone to Boucher Creek and permanent water. If time
allows, it is an easy walk down the creek to the Colorado River.
The Tonto Trail could be used to complete a loop hike
from Hermits Rest down the Boucher and up the Hermit Trail (or vise-versa).
It is about 6.5 waterless miles between Boucher and Hermit Creeks, and the
trail is well defined. Great Canyon views and spectacular travertine
deposits near the bed of Travertine Canyon provide diversion en route.
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