Road Scholar : Home
On the Road: Sedona's Red Rock Country and the Grand Canyon

Program Number: 1088RJ
Start and End Dates:
9/24/2012 - 9/30/2012; 9/15/2013 - 9/21/2013; 9/30/2013 - 10/6/2013; 10/8/2013 - 10/14/2013; 10/18/2013 - 10/24/2013;
Duration: 6 nights
Location: Sedona, Arizona
Price starting at: $984.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: On the Road; National Parks; Natural History Activity Level: t (see description)
Meals: 17; 6 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

The escarpment of the Colorado Plateau in northern Arizona includes some of our continent's most beautiful canyons. Explore the geology, ecology and human heritage of two spectacular canyon landscapes: Sedona’s Oak Creek Canyon and the incomparable Grand Canyon. Visit Montezuma Castle National Monument, a 5-story cliff dwelling. Hear from a cowboy and a member of the Hualapai tribe.




Highlights

• In Sedona, enjoy a half-day rail journey through the scenic Verde River Canyon, learn about – and try to spot – the resident bald eagles, raptors, blue herons, deer, fox, coyote and javelina. Take in the twisting confines of Oak Creek Canyon and other must see Sedona locations.
• In Peach Springs and western Grand Canyon, go off the beaten path on the Hualapai Indian Reservation down the only road to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and enjoy a picnic lunch on a Colorado River beach.
• At Grand Canyon National Park, explore the South Rim’s many dramatic viewpoints and trails with regional experts. Enjoy time for a sunrise/sunset.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to one mile on paved and dirt surfaces. Optional hikes available in Sedona area, Grand Canyon and at bottom of Canyon near river. Spectacular van trip to bottom of the Grand Canyon on graded gravel road. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Sedona, 3 nights; van to Grand Canyon South Rim, 1 night; van to Peach Springs, 2 nights; departure. Return transportation provided to Sedona.



Coordinated by Northern Arizona University.




Sedona

Sedona was historically a rural ranching community in Oak Creek Canyon. Today, the sunny city attracts visitors to its red-rock cliffs and lush evergreens, international film festival, and lively art scene.



Grand Canyon National Park

Within the borders of its 1.2 million acres, this World Heritage Site offers bikers, hikers, rafters and campers everything from breathtaking vistas to high adventure. Its 277 miles of raw rock and water continue to amaze generations of visitors.



Peach Springs

Home of the Hualapai Nation, or "People of the Tall Pine," Peach Springs is the reservation’s tribal capital, which comprises 1 million acres along the Colorado River and Grand Canyon region.
Accommodations
Sedona: Modern hotel with red-rock views. Grand Canyon South Rim: National Park lodge minutes from the rim. Peach Springs: Modern tribal Indian lodge and gateway to Grand Canyon West.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Richard Stephens
Rich has been director of Northern Arizona University’s highly popular Road Scholar programs since 2001. He previously spent many years in the field as a program coordinator and group leader, where he honed his skills and learned the importance of detailed, pre-trip planning. Before making his home in Arizona’s spectacular red-rock country, Rich spent 10 years in Yosemite National Park and the Santa Cruz mountains as an environmental educator.
 
Karen Landis
Karen Landis' front door has opened up onto Route 66 for the past 38 years, giving her status as a Route 66 legend in the Seligman stretch of the road. Some 25 years ago, a customer at her convenience store mustered the gumption to ask her to marry him, and Karen and Mike Landis - a legend himself known as Arizona's No. 1 cowboy - have been ranching together ever since. Karen's independent spirit and ropin' and ridin' skills have opened a new world to Road Scholar adventurers year after year.
 
Garrett Roberts
From the historical to the cinematic to the dust-on-your-brow trail, Garrett Roberts knows the American West. His lectures invoke intrigue and humor to dispel the myths created by Hollywood’s western genre. Garrett replicates museum-quality 19th century leather equipment for theater, is an avid hiker, and enjoys singing jazz. He has also worked for Emmy award-winning wardrobe designer Michael Boyd and was the key costume designer for Stephen Spielberg’s “Into the West.”
 
Sylvia Jackson
Sylvia is a Hualapai Tribal member who calls the Hualapai Indian Reservation in northwestern Arizona her home. A graduate of Northern Arizona University, Sylvia grew up with her Hualapai grandparents who influenced and fostered her love of her Hualapai culture and traditions. She enjoys sharing her firsthand experiences, knowledge of stories — such as the Creation Story of the Hualapai Tribe — and traditional dances with learners of all ages.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Sedona La Quinta Inn
  Sedona, AZ 3 nights
   Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges
  Grand Canyon - South Rim 1 night
   Grand Canyon Caverns Inn
  Peach Springs, AZ 2 nights
 Sedona La Quinta Inn
Type: Motel
  Description: Location! The hotel is surrounded by red rock vistas including the monumental buttes and landmarks of Bell Rock, Courthouse Butte and Apache Leap. Major hiking trailhead less than 1/4 mile from the hotel and the surrounding area is located on the escarpment where the Colorado Plateau meets the Sonoran Desert. Over thousands of years, Oak Creek has carved a red rock paradise which surrounds the property. Bell Rock Plaza and the Sedona Outlet Mall are adjacent to the property, providing ample shopping opportunities. Sedona's two top public golf courses are less then 1 mile away.
  Contact info: 6176 Hwy 179
Sedona, AZ 86351 USA
phone: 928-284-0711
web: www.laquintainnsedona.com
  Room amenities: Cable TV, free wi-fi internet access, alarm clock radio, coffee maker, hair dryer, dataport phones, iron w/board.
  Facility amenities: This facility offers 103 guest rooms on two floors. Heated outdoor pool, hot tub, free local calls, free WiFi, computer room, and complimentary continental breakfast. Nearby to premier hiking trail, art/tourist stores, outlet mall and golf courses.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: Seasonal - $90.00 - $120.00 Call hotel for the rates in effect during your stay.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges
Type: Lodge
  Description: The South Rim lodges (Maswik, Yavapai or Bright Angel) are within a half mile of the S. Rim. The lodges are convenient to all the shops, museums and restaurants within Grand Canyon Village. Free shuttle buses stop at each lodge.
  Contact info: S. Rim Grand Canyon
Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023 USA
phone: 928-638-2631
web: www.grandcanyonlodges.com/
  Room amenities: Television, phone, bath. Refrigerators available upon request for medications.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Grand Canyon Caverns Inn
Type: Motel
  Description: Refurbished historic Route 66 motel. Has landscaped "back yard" area with shaded patio and convenience market adjacent to lobby. Grand Canyon Caverns on same property with restaurant and gift shop. Several miles of developed walking trails through flat to hilly terrain - mixed grassland and woodland.
  Contact info: Route 66 12 miles east of Peach Springs
Peach Springs, AZ 86434 USA
phone: 928-422-3223
web: www.gccaverns.com
  Room amenities: TV with VCR; telephones; clock radio.
  Facility amenities: Heated outdoor swimming pool; game room.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Additional nights after: Call motel for rates. Outgoing commercial shuttle runs only on program end day. Participants using shuttle cannot stay over.
  Check out time: 9:00 AM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Your Northern Arizona University Coordinator will register participants 4:30 - 5:15 PM.. You will be staying at Sedona La Quinta Inn that night.
  End of Program:
NAU Road Scholar van will return to Sedona from Peach Springs by 11:00 AM. Van Go (commercial) Shuttle picks up participants after breakfast for express return to Phoenix Sky Harbor by 12:00 noon. You will be staying at Grand Canyon Caverns Inn the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required.
  Parking availability:
Parking is free.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Sedona, AZ
  Nearest city or town:  Sedona
  Nearest highway: I-17 (to south); I-40 (to north)
  Nearest airport:  Phoenix (100 miles)
  From End of Program
  Location:  Peach Springs, AZ
  Nearest city or town:  Peach Springs (12 miles)
  Nearest highway: Route 66 (I-40 east is 25 miles; west is 62 miles)
  Nearest airport:  Phoenix (210 miles); Las Vegas (150 miles)
Travel Details
 

Sedona, AZ to/from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Ace XPress Shuttle Co
phone: 928-639-3357
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately $60, price does not include gratuity.
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2.5 hours 
 

Distance:

 

120 miles
   

Scheduled as much as possible to your arrival in Phoenix. Pick up all terminals and nearby airport hotels, drop off at program hotel. RETURN: Scheduled as much as possible to your departure time from your hotel. Drop off at your terminal at Phoenix airport. Reservations required.
 

Sedona, AZ to/from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Sedona-Phoenix Shuttle Co
phone: 928-282-2066
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approximately $45, price does not include gratuity.
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2.5 
 

Distance:

 

120 miles
   

Many shuttles daily from Phoenix International Airport to Sedona. Pick up shuttle just outside the terminal's baggage claim. RETURN: pick up at your hotel, drop off at your terminal at Phoenix airport. www.sedona-phoenix-shuttle.com. For ease of travel transfers, it is recommended that participants check shuttle schedules PRIOR to booking airfare.
 

Sedona,AZ from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, return via Peach springs. For program 1088..

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
A Van Go Shuttle
phone: 866-448-2646
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Estimated $50 to Sedona, $100 from Peach Springs. Price does not include gratuity.
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2 hrs. to Sedona / 4 hrs. from Peach Springs. 
 

Distance:

 

100 miles to Sedona, 240 from Peach Springs
   

IMPORTANT: When choosing Van Go, best to contact shuttle company for schedule BEFORE booking airline. Best to book airport arrivals by 12:00 PM and departures after 2:00 PM PROGRAM START: PHX airport to Sedona: one departure daily, from all terminals, scheduled by advance reservation. PROGRAM END: Van Go Shuttle is the sole provider of direct shuttle service from Peach Springs area to PHX airport which saves at least 2 hours. Departs Peach Springs at 8:00 AM, arrives PHX airport by 12:00 PM.
 
Driving Directions
  Sedona La Quinta from I-40 Take the I-40 to exit 195 south in Flagstaff. Go south on the I-17 for 42 miles to exit 298, AZ Highway 179, Sedona. Turn right on AZ Highway 179 for 7 miles, La Quinta is on the left in the Village of Oak Creek. Just past the La Quinta, at the fourth traffic circle turn around and come back to the Hotel.
  Sedona La Quinta from Phoenix I-17 Go north on the I -17 for 105 miles to exit 298, AZ Highway 179, Sedona. Go northwest on Highway 179 for 7 miles to the La Quinta, on the left in the Village of Oak Creek. Just past the La Quinta, at the fourth traffic circle turn around and come back to the Hotel.
Elevation Note: Most elevations 4,500 to 5,000. 24 hours at 7,000 feet. Those with heart/lung conditions consult DR.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Arrival & Check-In/Welcome & Orientation
(Monday, September 24)
   
 Afternoon: Hotel check-in after 3:00 PM. Program registration between 4:30 - 5:15 PM
 Dinner: Dinner at Red Chopstick, adjacent to the hotel. Red Chopstick serves up variety of Chinese food entrees family style.
 Evening: Your Northern Arizona University coordinator will lead Introductions and orientation in the motel meeting room following dinner. Get to know your fellow participants and get prepared for the action packed adventure you are about to embark on.
   
Accommodations: Sedona La Quinta Inn
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Natural History or Human History Lecture/Sedona Red Rock Country/Evening Program
(Tuesday, September 25)

Note: While on the afternoon field trip of Sedona, optional hiking excursion of over one mile on rocky, dirt trail with 200' elevation change.
   
 Breakfast: Continental breakfast of pastries, coffee, juice, fresh fruit, yogurt, hot/ cold cereal, waffles, boiled eggs.
 Morning: Learn about the fascinating geology of the Sedona area and the Grand Canyon through a presentation by a geologist. Learn what makes those rocks so darn red and why the Grand Canyon is called "The greatest open book of earth's history".
 Lunch: Lunch at Redstone Cafe at Oak Creek Country Club, serving contemporary, health-focused cuisine. Lunch choices include soup, hearty salads, a variety of sandwiches, and a daily hot entree.
 Afternoon: Our afternoon field trip will take us on a journey to see and visit a few of Sedona's most majestic sights. Visit Airport Mesa for a geographic overview of the region, Travel through Oak Creek Canyon and see other scenic vistas in and around Sedona; Enjoy either an optional visit to the Mexican inspired galleries at Tlaquepaque or to Uptown Sedona; OR a short hike in Sedona's red rock country. Discover why Sedona is referred to as "the most scenic city in America!"
 Dinner: Dinner at Redstone Cafe. Entree choices include Spaghetti with Italian Sausage, Meatloaf with Sour Cream Mashed Potatoes, and Braised Tuscan Chicken with Rosemary and Creamy Polenta.
 Evening: Enjoy "Movies and Magic," a presentation about the film industry and its history in Sedona. Did you know that Elvis Presley made a movie in Sedona? Remember Jeff Chandler as Cochise in Broken Arrow with Jimmy Stewart? Reminisce, laugh, and learn how the movie industry played an important role in the discovery and shaping of Sedona.
   
Accommodations: Sedona La Quinta Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Montezuma Castle/Ride the Scenic Verde Canyon Railroad.
(Wednesday, September 26)

Note: 1/3 to 1 mile walk at Montezuma Castle. Trails are paved and flat.
   
 Breakfast: Continental breakfast at La Quinta with choice of pastries, coffee, juice, yogurt, hot/cold cereal, fresh fruit, boiled eggs, waffles.
 Morning: Depart on a field trip to Montezuma Castle National Monument (cliff dwellings). Montezuma Castle is a 5-story, 20-room cliff dwelling nestled in a limestone recess high above the flood plain of Beaver Creek in the Verde Valley. It is one of the best preserved cliff dwellings in North America, constructed 700 years ago by the Sinagua Indians. Enjoy a walk amongst beautiful sycamore trees and spring-fed Beaver Creek, one of only a few perennial streams in Arizona.
 Lunch: Stop at Vintages Grille for lunch with a selection of a Burger, Chicken Sandwich or Portabello Sandwich; OR a Lunch Buffet.
 Afternoon: Ride the Verde Canyon Railroad! The Verde Canyon Railroad is often referred to as the finest train ride in Arizona and acclaimed as Arizona’s longest-running nature show. The remote wilderness of the Verde Canyon, located west of Sedona and below Jerome, is renowned for its towering red rock pinnacles and clean, green waters. The train rolls past Indian ruins, through a 680-foot man-made tunnel, over old-fashioned trestles and under clear azure skies. This picturesque setting is further enhanced by the variety of indigenous flora and fauna and many migrating waterfowl. Over thirty bald and golden eagles winter in this riparian respite each year. The 40 mile trip travels very slowly (10-15 mph) and mostly near the canyon bottom. Passengers enjoy this four-hour scenic train ride in style aboard renovated passenger coaches and open-air viewing cars pulled by vintage locomotives. Participants have inside seats and access to outdoor observation cars.
 Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant.
 Evening: Free Evening: rest up for tomorrow's big day.
   
Accommodations: Sedona La Quinta Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Depart Sedona/Oak Creek Canyon/Lunch on Canyon Rim/Grand Canyon N.P. South Rim
(Thursday, September 27)

Note: Several short walks to Grand Canyon viewpoints and along the rim. Optional longer walks if you choose to view sunset or go to the NPS evening program.
   
 Breakfast: Continental breakfast - choice of pastries, hot/cold cereal, fresh fruit, yogurt, waffles, boiled eggs, juice, coffee and tea.
 Morning: After early breakfast, learn about famous Oak Creek Canyon as you travel Hwy 89A, one of Arizona's most scenic highways, and up the famous switchbacks on a coach trip to the Grand Canyon's South Rim. En route, visit the southwestern corner of the Navajo Reservation and Cameron, site of the Cameron Trading Post. Stop at Desert View with its expansive view of the eastern Grand Canyon; and the Watchtower, designed by renowned architect Mary Jane Colter. A naturalist will accompany you on your journey, revealing the Grand Canyon's unique geologic, biologic and historic features while you have the opportunity to visit the Canyon's rim.
 Lunch: Enjoy your sack lunch of a sandwich, chips, fruit and cookie while devouring incomparable views of Grand Canyon!
 Afternoon: After lunch, you'll stop at a few more amazing view points, have the opportunity to walk along the rim, and visit Grand Canyon Village. Keep your eyes out for the endangered California condor soaring overhead as you gaze into the Canyon's depths below. Afternoon check-in to your south rim Grand Canyon Lodge. Option to ride the park's shuttle to a view point to view a Grand Canyon Sunset.
 Dinner: Dinner in the Canyon Cafe at Grand Canyon National Park. The offerings in this cafeteria-style eatery range from burgers and salads to tacos, grilled fish, pasta dishes, and a phyllo-topped chicken pot pie. The dessert selection is plentiful, and includes cakes, pies, a serve-yourself ice cream machine, and fresh fruit and yogurt.
 Evening: Option to watch a National Park Ranger evening program.
   
Accommodations: Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Free time to explore the Grand Canyon's south rim village/Rt 66 nostalgia tour /Evening Program
(Friday, September 28)

Note: Options for more hiking on free time, but can keep it to less a 1/2 mile if that is your preference.
   
 Breakfast: The Canyon Cafe offers a full breakfast, cafeteria-style, with traditional choices such as bacon & eggs, pancakes, toast, potatoes, and fruit, as well as cereal, pastries, and a Mexican breakfast burrito.
 Morning: Before breakfast, option to ride the park's shuttle to a view point to view a Grand Canyon Sunrise. After breakfast, we will check out of our hotel and load our vehicles with luggage. Then, spend the morning exploring historic Grand Canyon Village, or, walking rim trails to viewpoints, or walk part way into the canyon on the famous Bright Angel trail. Your trip leaders will lay out the options for your choosing after the vehicles have been loaded. Options will include both guided exploration or opportunities to strike out on your own for self discovery time.
 Lunch: Lunch in the Maswik or Yavapai Cafe includes a wide selection of lunchtime favorites, such as burgers & fries, fresh salads, sandwiches, several hot entrees, and more.
 Afternoon: Depart the Grand Canyon National Park for Grand Canyon Caverns. Enroute, stop at a classic location of Route 66 nostalgia, Seligman, with its focus on American road touring in the 1950's. After Seligman, check into our hotel by 4:30 PM. Historic Grand Canyon Caverns is an authentic Route 66 Icon which makes you feel like you are stepping back in time to a simpler era. It offers the best food and quietest surroundings in Peach Springs.
 Dinner: Dinner at Grand Canyon Caverns Inn is served buffet-style, and includes a salad bar, several entree choices, and dessert.
 Evening: Evening program on Hualapai Indian culture and traditions presented by Sylvia Jackson. Sylvia grew up with her Hualapai grandparents who influenced and fostered her love of her Hualapai culture and traditions. She enjoys sharing her firsthand experiences, knowledge of stories — such as the Creation Story of the Hualapai Tribe — and traditional dances with learners of all ages.
   
Accommodations: Grand Canyon Caverns Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Peach Springs Canyon to Bottom of Grand Canyon/Picnic Lunch Riverside in the Canyon/View Diamond Creek Rapid/Evening Program
(Saturday, September 29)

Note: 20 mile bumpy gravel road to bottom of Grand Canyon. Optional 3/4 mile walk to Colorado River.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast in the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn restaurant is a buffet with something for everyone. Choices include fruit, yogurt, and granola, eggs and breakfast meats, and selection of cereals, including oatmeal.
 Morning: Depart after breakfast for a field trip down Peach Springs Canyon on the Diamond Creek Road to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and the Colorado River. Stops will be made along the way at various points of interest. This is a true "Journey to the Center of the Earth" as the walls of the Grand Canyon rise higher and higher as you drive towards the Colorado River. Pass through hundreds of millions of years of geologic history culminating in the arrival to the 1.8 billion year old rock of the Granite Gorge. A 3/4-mile walk along Diamond Creek to the river will be offered.
 Lunch: Picnic lunch at the Colorado River in the bottom of Grand Canyon.
 Afternoon: Field trip continues in the bottom of the Grand Canyon after lunch. View Diamond Creek Rapids, look for desert bighorn sheep, and watch for river runners along the shores of the Colorado River. Interesting history, facts and management issues regarding the Colorado River will be shared with the group on the beach. Return in late afternoon to Grand Canyon Caverns.
 Dinner: Dinner in Grand Canyon Caverns Inn restaurant is served buffet-style and includes a salad bar, several entree choices, and dessert.
 Evening: Evening program on the history of ranching in northern Arizona. This highly informative and entertaining talk will be presented by Karin Landis. Karen's front door has opened up onto Route 66 for the past 38 years and she has been actively ranching for 25 years. Karen's independent spirit and ropin' and ridin' skills have opened a new world to Road Scholar adventurers year after year.
   
Accommodations: Grand Canyon Caverns Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Departure Day
(Sunday, September 30)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast in the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn restaurant is a buffet with something for everyone. Choices include fruit, yogurt, and granola, eggs and breakfast meats, and selection of cereals, including oatmeal.
 Morning: Following breakfast, Road Scholar van will return to Sedona for no charge. Sedona arrival by 11:45 AM. If connecting with commercial van to Phoenix airport, airport arrival approximately 2:30- 3:00 PM. /// A second option exists for those desiring express service to the Phoenix Sky Harbor airport. Van Go Shuttle (commercial) departs Peach Springs direct for express return to Phoenix Sky Harbor with arrival by noon. Choosing Van Go will save approximately 2.5 hours on the return to Phoenix for those concerned about meeting flight schedules.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Sedona, AZ Sedona
Points of interest within two hours of Sedona: In the Flagstaff area, 30 miles north: Sinagua period ruins at Walnut Canyon and Wupatki National Monuments; Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument; the Native American artifacts and collections housed at the Museum of Northern Arizona, which also presents Native American performances and demonstrations; the Kachina Wilderness on the 12,600 ft high San Francisco Peaks; old downtown Flagstaff & old Route 66; Lowell Observatory, which discovered the planet Pluto. In the Oak Creek / Sedona area: Massive sandstone cliffs and riparian beauty of Oak Creek Canyon; Sedona red rock monoliths and the surrounding Secret Mountain Wilderness; Sedona’s fine art and jewelry galleries and its international cuisines; the New Age Sedona vortex offerings; Jerome, AZ a mining ghost town. In other outlying areas: Hopi & Navajo Reservations; the Mary Colter designed La Posada Hotel / Restaurant at Winslow, AZ; Grand Canyon Railroad at Williams, AZ and the Grand Canyon National Park (2.5 hours north.)
  Grand Canyon - South Rim General Overview
Within 2 hours of the Grand Canyon: Kachina Wilderness, Cameron Trading Post, Museum of Northern Arizona, historic downtown Flagstaff, Lowell Observatory, Northern Arizona University, Sunset Crater National Monument, Wupatki and Walnut Canyon (Sinagua ruins) National Monuments, Northern Arizona University. Within 3 hours: Oak Creek Canyon, Sedona redrocks and wilderness areas, Sedona galleries and restaurants, La Posada railroad hotel and restaurant in Winslow.
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


An Introduction to Grand Canyon Ecology


Author: Houk, Rose


Description: 56pp



An Introduction to Grand Canyon Prehistory


Author: Coder, Christopher M.


Description: People have inhabited Grand Canyon for the past twelve thousand years. Evidence of their lives exists throughout the canyon; but it is up to their ancestors and archaeologists to interpret those remains for us. This book provides a popular look at the architecture, art, and tools of prehistoric Puebloan peoples, as well as information about modern-day Native American tribes. With illustrations and color photographs.



Field Guide to the Grand Canyon


Author: Whitney, Stephen R


Description: This book describes and illustrates the area's plants and animals, and offers fascinating in-depth information on the natural history and geology of this dramatic region. 272pp



Introduction to Grand Canyon Geology


Author: Price, L Greer


Description: This overview of Grand Canyon geology is perfect for the first-time visitor or the seasoned Grand Canyon traveler. Chapters cover the basic priciples of geology, the history of geological exploration at Grand Canyon, the canyon's structural features, and the Colorado River. Includes over 70 photos and illustrations, an index, and glossary. 63pp



Living at the Edge: Explorers, Exploiters, and Settlers of the Grand Canyon Region


Author: Anderson, Michael F


Description: A comprehensive look at the pioneer history of the Grand Canyon Region, from its earliest residents to the creation of the national park at the end of the pioneer era (circa 1920). Included are close to two hundred historic photographs, many never published before, and 12 custom maps of the region. 184pp



Roadside Geology of Arizona


Author: Chronic, Halka


Description: The 18th printing of this book in the Roadside Geology Series offers a mini-course in geology, focusing on what can be seen from Arizona highways. Although written especially for those with little or no geologic training, there's plenty here for the professional geologist as well--a great introduction to Arizona and its past. Geologic terms are defined where first used and again in the glossary. Inside the front cover is a legend to geological symbols and abbreviations commonly used by geologists. 321pp



Secret Sedona: Sacred Moments in the Landscape


Author: Larry Lindahl


Description: This book provides an overview of the terrain, ancestral Indian ruins and petroglyphs found in Sedona's wilderness areas. Extraordinary photography from one of the nations most photogenic areas. 80 pages.



We are an Indian Nation: A History of the Hualapai People (First Peoples: New Directions in Indigenous Studies)


Author: Shepherd, Jeffrey P.


Description: This book focuses on the historical construction of the Hualapai Nation in the face of modern American colonialism. Shepherd shows that Hualapai nation-building was a complex process shaped by band identities, competing visions of the past, creative reactions to modernity, and resistance to state power. He analyzes how the Hualapais transformed an externally imposed tribal identity through nationalist discourses of protecting aboriginal territory; and he examines how that discourse strengthened the Hualapais’ claim to land and water while simultaneously reifying a politicized version of their own history. Drawing on recent work in American Indian history and Native American studies, Shepherd shows how the Hualapai have strived to reclaim a distinct identity and culture in the face of ongoing colonialism.





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