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Grand Canyon: Hiking Along and Below the South Rim

Program Number: 6112RJ
Start and End Dates:
4/28/2013 - 5/3/2013; 10/6/2013 - 10/11/2013; 3/2/2014 - 3/7/2014; 4/27/2014 - 5/2/2014;
Duration: 5 nights
Location: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Price starting at: $980.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: Walking/Hiking; National Parks; Natural History Activity Level: t (see description)
Meals: 13; 5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Hike beneath towering pines, through stands of pinyon-juniper and around yucca and agave as you venture along and below the rim of the Grand Canyon. From your hike along the rim at Hopi Point to the Desert View descent of the Palisades to the South Kaibab Trail, see more of the canyon than you ever imagined. Naturalists provide insight into the canyon’s epic natural and human histories.




Highlights

• Go off-the-beaten track on hikes on the rim and in the Canyon.
• Experienced naturalists provide explain what makes the canyon special.
• Enjoy a hike into the Canyon on the South Kaibab Trail.



Activity Particulars

Hike 3-6 miles, elevation changes up to 1,200 feet. Max elevation 7,000 feet. Uneven terrain, high steps, desert vegetation, rocky areas.



Coordinated by Northern Arizona University.




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.
Accommodations
Grand Canyon National Park lodge.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Bruce Banker
Bruce Banker is a graduate of Northern Arizona University, where he studied natural sciences and geology. He lives in Flagstaff and has worked for the National Park Service as a naturalist on the north rim of the Grand Canyon, Chaco Canyon National Historic Park and Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. Bruce also serves as an outdoor educator for the Grand Canyon Field Institute. Bruce has taken students to many of the far-flung corners of the Southwest and has a few good stories to share.
 
Mike Young
Mike Young has lived in Arizona for 40 years, and taught math and geology at Yavapai College prior to his work with Road Scholar. To convey the Arizona landscape, Mike uses a broad range of topics including botany, natural history and geomorphology. He has worked as a commercial boatman, designed and constructed his own home, and conducted field exercises throughout the intermountain west. He is an accomplished hike leader who challenges hikers of all skill levels.
 
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.
 
Lisa Kearsley
The author of “The San Juan River Guide,” Lisa Kearsley inherited an appreciation for the Southwest from her father, who was a biology professor. She earned a bachelor’s in zoology from the University of California and a master’s in biology from Northern Arizona University. Lisa has worked at the Grand Canyon as an interpretive park ranger teaching natural history programs and has studied the effects of Glen Canyon Dam on area campsites.
 
Mike Masek
Mike Masek is a wilderness skills instructor, herbalist and ethnobotanist living in Flagstaff, Ariz. In addition to his current work with Road Scholar, he is adjunct faculty at Northern Arizona University where he teaches traditional uses of native plants and outdoor survival skills. He also teaches programs at the National Parks and Coconino Community College. He has spent a lifetime exploring the canyons and deserts of the American Southwest and loves to share these treasures with others.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West
  Grand Canyon - South Rim 5 nights
 Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West
Type: Lodge
  Description: Located in the Grand Canyon National Park, one-half mile from the rim in a quiet setting amongst towering ponderosa pine trees. The park’s free shuttle-bus service has a stop directly in front of the lodge that provides access to park viewpoints, Grand Canyon Village and visitor center.
  Contact info: 10 Albright (Yavapai Front Desk)
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 USA
phone: 928-638-2631
web: www.grandcanyonlodge.com
  Room amenities: Telephone, TV, alarm clock, private bath.
  Facility amenities: Bank/ATM, bell and concierge services, guest laundry facilities, medical services, park information, post office, safe deposit boxes, free shuttle from lodge to historic Grand Canyon Village and scenic rim views.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Additional nights prior: Varies Reservations are made by calling (888) 29PARKS (297-2757).
  Check in time: 4:00 PM
  Additional nights after: Varies Reservations are made by calling (888) 29PARKS (297-2757).
  Check out time: 11:00 AM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Lodge rooms avaialble after 4:00PM. Program registration in lodge lobby/dining area from 4:30 - 5:15 PM. You will be staying at Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West that night.
  End of Program:
Program ends at 10:00 AM after a short hike. You will be staying at Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required.
  Parking availability:
Free parking for the length of the program at the lodge.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Grand Canyon - South Rim
  Nearest city or town:  Flagstaff, AZ, 80 miles south
  Nearest highway: US 180
  Nearest airport:  Commuter: Tusayan, 6 mi S; Intl: Phoenix, 230 mi south
  From End of Program
  Location:  Departures
Travel Details
 

Grand Canyon South rim from Phoenix

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Arizona Shuttle
phone: 877-226-8060
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approx. $75 for both legs of shuttle.
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

4.5 - 7, depending on links. 
 

Distance:

 

240
   

To go from Phoenix to the south rim requires TWO shuttles, the first leg is Phoenix to Flagstaff, the second is Flagstaff to Grand Canyon. Must change vans in Flagstaff. Call shuttle company for timing of shuttles prior to booking flights. Fastest option is to take the 11:00AM Arizona Shuttle from Phoenix airport to Flagstaff Visitor Center and then take the NAU Road Scholar shuttle that departs at 2:30 PM from Flagstaff to Grand Canyon. AZ shuttle runs other options to G.C with later arrivals.
 

Flagstaff Visitor Center to/from Grand Canyon South Rim

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
NAU Road Scholar Shuttle
phone: 928-523-2359
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$15; plus $8.00 entrance fee at gate to Grand Canyon; entrance fee waived with National Park Pass
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

1 hr. and 45 min. 
 

Distance:

 

90 miles
   

NAU will provide a shuttle from Flagstaff which can be combined with AZ Shuttle. Arizona Shuttle has many departures/day from Phoenix airport to the Flagstaff Visitor Center. The NAU Road Scholar van offers transport to GC S. Rim at 2:30 pm ONLY on the first day of the program from the Flagstaff Visitor Center. NOTE: the 11:00 am PHX - Flagstaff AZ Shuttle departure is the LAST shuttle that will connect with the 2:30 NAU van on the first day of the program. Call AZ Shuttle to confirm times.
 

Flagstaff, AZ from Grand Canyon (Last day of program).

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
NAU Road Scholar Van
phone: 928-523-5980
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Approx. $15;
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

1 hour 45 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

90 miles
   

This is the first of two shuttles to get to the Phoenix Airport. The NAU Road Scholar shuttle will depart Grand Canyon by 10:00 AM on the last day of the program arriving at the Flagstaff Visitor Center (Amtrak Station) by 12 noon. Second shuttle: Arizona Shuttle offers multiple departures from the Flagstaff Visitor Center (Amtrak Station) to the Phoenix airport. Call shuttle companies for current departure times and before finalizing airline flight times.
 

Grand Canyon Village, South Rim to/from Flagstaff

 

From Train Station

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Arizona Shuttle
phone: 877-226-8060
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$29.00, $4.00 less for online booking, plus $6.00 entrance fee at gate to Grand Canyon
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

1 hr 45 min - 2 hrs. 
 

Distance:

 

84 miles
   

INFORMATION FOR THOSE WHO MAY BE ARRIVING EARLY OR DO NOT WANT TO TAKE THE NAU SHUTTLE ON THE FIRST DAY: 3 daily shuttles to and from Flagstaff to GCNP: Depart Flagstaff Visitor Center at 8:00 AM, 1:00 PM & 3:45PM; arrive GCNP at 9:45 AM, 3:00 PM& 5:45 PM. Returning: Depart Maswik Lodge 10:15 AM, 3:15 PM & 6:15 PM arrive Flagstaff Visitor Center 12:15 PM, 5:15 PM; 8:15 PM. Mid day shuttle runs seasonally, March through October.Times subject to change. Contact shuttle Co. before booking flight.
 
Driving Directions
  Grand Canyon Village from I-17 Take I-17 north to the I-40 intersection in Flagstaff. Take I-40 west toward Los Angeles. 30 miles west of Flagstaff take the AZ Highway 64 turnoff north to the Grand Canyon. Stay on AZ Highway 64 for 58 miles to Grand Canyon Village.
  Grand Canyon Village from I-40 Eastbound Take I-40 East to Williams, AZ. In Williams take the Grand Canyon exit, AZ 64 North. Continue north on AZ 64 for 58 miles to Grand Canyon Village.
  Grand Canyon Village from I-40 Westbound Take I-40 West through Flagstaff, AZ. 30 miles west of Flagstaff take the AZ Highway 64 turnoff north to the Grand Canyon. Stay on AZ Highway 64 for 58 miles to Grand Canyon Village.
Elevation Note: 7,000 feet elevation. Those with heart or lung concerns should consult physician before.

Equipment Requirements: Backpack (daypack), hiking boots with good traction. Water bottles or water bladder system holding at least 2 liters. Hiking poles are optional. Rain gear.
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: Registration/Program Orientation and Introductions
(Sunday, April 28)
   
 Afternoon: Northern Arizona University Road Scholar Registration in lodge lobby/dining area from 4:30 - 5:15 PM.
 Dinner: Dinner at the "Maswik Cafe, adjacent to the lodge. Multiple buffet entree options to choose from with soups, salads, sandwiches, Mexican specialties, and a variety of tasty desserts.
 Evening: Northern Arizona University Road Scholar coordinator will direct a program orientation and lead group introductions after dinner in the meeting room. Get prepared for the exciting adventure lays ahead and meet your fellow participants.
   
Accommodations: Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: West Rim / Historic Grand Canyon Village
(Monday, April 29)

Note: The morning Rim Trail Hike is on a mix of dirt and paved surfaces. Prepare for variable weather. The afternoon Bright Angel Trail Hike is on a well maintained, wide trail with good footing when dry. Depending on the season and in case of icy conditions we will employ "Ice Walkers" (in-step cleats that strap onto hiking boots). Trekking poles are recommended. As an introductory, inner canyon warm up hike, a typical hike distance is about 3/4 mile (one way) with a 700 foot loss of elevation.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Lodge. Full buffet options including scrambled eggs, pancakes, french toast, sausage, bacon, oatmeal, fresh fruit, juices, milk, coffee and more. Participants are given meal coupons for the week so they can eat at the time of their choosing.
 Morning: After breakfast, pre-hike planning and geographic orientation to the Grand Canyon Region. Depart for rim hike from Mohave Point to the West Rim interchange. Group will walk between spectacular viewpoints as guides interpret natural and historic features in the canyon and along the trail. Excellent views of the Colorado River are a highlight on this 3 mile mostly level hike.
 Lunch: Lunch at the South Rim Lodge.
 Afternoon: Following lunch at the Lodge, the group will take a short hike down the Bright Angel Trail to get a feel for hiking on an inner canyon trail below the rim.
 Dinner: Dinner at the Lodge. Multiple buffet entree options to choose from with soups, salads, sandwiches, Mexican specialties, and a variety of tasty desserts. .
 Evening: Shuttle to Mather Point for a Grand Canyon sunset. Mather Point will offer late evening shadows and light in the canyon and great North Rim vistas.
   
Accommodations: Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Desert View / Palisades Hike
(Tuesday, April 30)

Note: This is an in and out the same way hike. The first 2/3 of the Palisades Hike follows an old road bed. The terrain is generally level for the first 1/2 mile then descends 700 feet to the Palisades Rim. The road bed is generally rocky but with good traction. The hike continues off-trail through a pinyon and juniper stand. Some side-hill contour hiking and minor elevation changes over varied terrain leads the group to a spectacular canyon viewpoint. Retrace route and return to rim.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Lodge. Full buffet options including scrambled eggs, pancakes, french toast, sausage, bacon, oatmeal, fresh fruit, juices, milk, coffee and more.
 Morning: After breakfast and pre-hike planning, the group departs for the Palisades hike in the eastern Desert View area of the park. This is a true "off the beaten path" hike so you won't find this hike in any of the guide books. This hike begins on an abandoned rocky road bed and ends up on a massive escarpment of the Grand Canyon known as the Palisades of the Desert. There is a 700 foot elevation loss and then gain on this six mile round trip hike. Hike highlights include; remote, quiet hiking locations, colorful views of the Painted Desert, frequent wildlife sightings and striking views of the eastern portion of the Grand Canyon.
 Lunch: Trail lunch.
 Afternoon: After completing the hike - the group will have an opportunity to explore Desert View and the well-known Watchtower designed by Mary Jane Colter at the Park's east entrance. Sweeping views of the Colorado River and distant views of the Painted Desert are among the attractions
 Dinner: Dinner at the Lodge. Multiple buffet entree options to choose from with soups, salads, sandwiches, Mexican specialties, and a variety of tasty desserts. .
 Evening: After dinner, a National Park Service ranger program will be offered at the Shrine of the Ages Auditorium. An interesting Grand Canyon topic, which change nightly, will be presented.
   
Accommodations: Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Red Mountain Volcano or Red Butte Hike
(Wednesday, May 1)

Note: The Red Mountain Hike is a hidden gem and well received. The trail is well established. The trail surface is generally on fine volcanic cinder material with good footing in all weather conditions. The trail has a gentle incline over the 1.5 mile (one way) hike to the cinder cone. Opportunities to do a bit of scrambling in the cinder cone will be offered.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Lodge. Full buffet options including scrambled eggs, pancakes, french toast, sausage, bacon, oatmeal, fresh fruit, juices, milk, coffee and more.
 Morning: Following breakfast at the lodge and a pre-hike meeting, the group departs for the Red Mountain (mostly level, 3 miles round trip), NOTE: this hike is located outside the park boundary and offers a great scenic and geologic rewards. Due to the forces of erosion Red Mountain Volcano has been cut in half and eroded into a geologic fairyland of spires, pinnacles and "hoodoos".
 Lunch: Lunch at the South Rim Lodge.
 Afternoon: Free afternoon to enjoy and explore the canyon on your own. A discussion of "free time options" will be provided by your guide to better help participants maximize their time. Activities may including riding the West Rim shuttle to various viewpoints and Hermit's Rest, exploring the many interesting buildings in the historic Grand Canyon Village, rim walks or other activities of your choosing.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own at one of the national park's 5 dining venues. The available eating establishments at Grand Canyon are: El Tovar (reservations required for dinner: 928-638-2631), Arizona Room, Bright Angel Restaurant, Market Plaza Deli, Yavapai Canyon Café (open seasonally) and Maswik Cafeteria.Your coordinator will discuss restaurant options and reservation information with the group.
 Evening: After dinner, a National Park Service ranger program will be offered at the Shrine of the Ages Auditorium. An interesting Grand Canyon topic, which change nightly, will be presented.
   
Accommodations: Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Cedar Ridge / Yaki Point
(Thursday, May 2)

Note: The Kaibab Trail is a well maintained trail. It averages about 4 - 5 feet in width and has numerous water bars and step pads. The first 1/4 mile will be switchbacks then continues at a gentle incline to Ooh-Aah Pt. before descending a series of switch backs to Cedar Ridge. The trail is generally dry and clear but depending on the season patches of mud may exist. In case of icy conditions we will employ "Ice Walkers" (in-step cleats that strap onto hiking boots). Trekking poles are recommended.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Lodge. Full buffet options including scrambled eggs, pancakes, french toast, sausage, bacon, oatmeal, fresh fruit, juices, milk, coffee and more.
 Morning: After breakfast in the lodge and a pre-hike meeting, hike to Cedar Ridge (1.5 miles and 1140 feet elevation loss one way) via Ooh-Aah Point on the the Kaibab Trail. Switchbacks and amazing canyon views at each corner will be the order of the day. This hike is to be counted among the highlights of the week! You will traverse several of the geologic layers of the Canyon including the Coconino Sandstone which contains fossilized reptile tracks. Time to enjoy "inner" canyon views, looking out for California Condor soaring overhead and trail side talks by your guides will be enjoyed at Cedar Ridge.
 Lunch: Box lunch.
 Afternoon: The Cedar Ridge hike continues. Weather permitting an option to hike lower into the canyon to Skeleton Point (an additional 1.5 miles and 1000 feet loss of elevation one way) will be offered for those who want a more strenuous hike. For those that do not choose to go further into the canyon they will return to the rim at their own pace. Once the rim is reached a leisurely hike to Yaki Point will be offered.
 Dinner: Enjoy dinner at the Squire Inn, located just outside the park boundary, 7 miles from the lodge. The Squire Inn serves delicious entrées to choose from including slow roasted herb chicken, a south of the border combo plate, spinach pasta with artichokes, or broiled salmon.
 Evening: Return to lodge after dinner.
   
Accommodations: Grand Canyon South Rim Lodges - Yavapai West
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Short hike for program wrap-up on the rim.
(Friday, May 3)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Lodge. Full buffet options including scrambled eggs, pancakes, french toast, sausage, bacon, oatmeal, fresh fruit, juices, milk, coffee and more.
 Morning: This level hike will lead the group along the rim to canyon vistas where the group will reflect on the weeks events and adventures. After a program wrap up and farewells the group will return to the lodge for departures. Program ends by 10:00 AM. Hotel check out is 11:00 AM. For those taking the Northern Arizona University Road Scholar shuttle back to Flagstaff, departure will be at 10:15 AM from the lodge.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  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 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.



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



Life in Stone: Fossils of the Colorado Plateau


Author: Sadler, Christa


Description: Like pages in a book, the layers of sedimentary rock that are exposed on the Colorado Plateau tell us much about the diversity of environments that have come and gone over a period of hundreds of millions of years. This region is recognized as one of the finest earth-science laboratories in the world. Analysis of the fossil record and new discoveries across the plateau are answering questions, solving mysteries, and making connections that help us understand the history of life worldwide. "Life In Stone" tells the story of past environments and current discoveries with numerous illustrations and lively text written for a general audience. 72pp



Beyond the Hundredth Meridian: John Wesley Powell and the Second Opening of the West


Author: Stegner, Wallace


Description: Here Wallace Stegner, a Pulitzer Prize-winner, gives us a thrilling account of Powell's struggle against western geography and Washington politics. We witness the successes and frustrations of Powell's distinguished career, and appreciate his unparalleled understanding of the West. "Stegner's most exciting work." (San Francisco Chronicle) 496pp



Carving Grand Canyon: Evidence, Theories, and Mystery


Author: Ranney, Wayne


Description: Ranney explains how rivers in general can physically carve canyons, looks chronologically at the numerous theories that have been presented by successive generations of geologists regarding the Grand Canyon's formation, and describes a plausible sequence of geologic events that could create such a landscape. Numerous color photographs, detailed illustrations, and maps are provided. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR 160pp; 2nd edition 2012.



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





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