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A Grand Canyon Odyssey: River Journeys and Canyon Vistas

Program Number: 2805RJ
Start and End Dates:
4/21/2013 - 4/27/2013; 9/20/2013 - 9/26/2013; 10/14/2013 - 10/20/2013;
Duration: 6 nights
Location: Scottsdale, Arizona
Price starting at: $1,199.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: National Parks; On the Road; Natural History
Meals: 18; 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 6 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Experience the Grand Canyon as few have during a journey from rim to river and from beginning to end with two distinct smooth-water raft trips on the Colorado River. Enjoy a raft trip through Glen Canyon with knowledgeable guides, beneath stunning 800 foot high Navajo Sandstone cliffs. Explore the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park with its sweeping inner canyon views and historical features. The adventure culminates with a helicopter flight to the Colorado River on the Hualapai Indian Reservation and a raft trip through the Grand Wash Cliffs and the geographic end of the Grand Canyon.




Highlights

• At Glen Canyon, float by raft on the Colorado River, passing between towering sandstone cliff. Explore colorful pioneer history and enterprises at Lee's Ferry and Navajo Bridge.
• Spend two nights on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Explore the historic village and learn about the colorful human history and recent geological theories. Hikes along the rim and on inner canyon trails will be offered.
• At western Grand Canyon, fly by helicopter to the banks of the Colorado River and raft 20 miles to the Grand Wash Cliffs and the physical end of the Grand Canyon.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to one mile on uneven ground. Board and disembark rafts. Elevations visited will be between 3,000 and 7,000 feet. On the S. Rim the distance between the lodging and dining area requires up to a 1/4 mile walk. Check Roadscholar.org for more detailed information (program #2805).




Date Specific Information

9-20-2013

This date will have a slightly different itinerary order. All program components are the same, but the order of locations visited will be: Arrival Scottsdale, 1 night; Hualapai Lodge, 2 nights; Grand Canyon National Park, 1 night; Marble Canyon Lodge 2 nights; to Scottsdale, departure.



10-14-2013

This date will contain all scheduled activities but will spend only one night at Grand Canyon National Park.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Scottsdale, 1 night; coach to Marble Canyon, 2 nights; to Grand Canyon National Park, 2 nights; to Hualapai Lodge, 2 nights; to Scottsdale, departure.



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.



Phoenix

Phoenix is a thriving metropolis surrounded by majestic mountains. Along with the visual beauty of the land, the city has a rich heritage of Native American and Hispanic cultures. Native American and western expansion influences are seen in the art and architecture of Phoenix, and an abundance of museums and art galleries showcase the culture.



Scottsdale

An affluent city adjacent to Phoenix, Scottsdale enjoys an annual average of more than 330 days of sunshine, a factor that, along with the area’s wide-open desert landscape, makes the city a haven for golfers. Scottsdale’s vibrant nightlife and busy hotel scene are balanced out by its proximity to mountain areas popular with outdoor enthusiasts.



Marble Canyon

Embraced in the Grand Canyon National Park, Marble Canyon sits between the north rim and the south rim of the park. A fly-fishing destination, Marble Canyon has a history stretching back 10,500 years when the first evidence of humans appeared in the area. Indian tribes have been living in the region continuously for the past 4,000 years.
Accommodations
Scottsdale: Private casitas at desert resort. Marble Canyon: Lodge at Vermilion Cliffs. Grand Canyon: Lodge near rim. Peach Springs: Hotel on Hualapai Reservation.

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.
 
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.
 
Stewart Lasseter
After completing studies in geo-science, natural history and Spanish at the University of Arizona, Stewart Lasseter studied as the protege of a Native American healer, learning from her practices of wholeness, kinesiology, mind-body medicine and dyslexia correction. He has years of experience bringing groups in touch with the natural world, and is currently pursuing post-graduate studies in health sciences at Prescott College.
 
Matt Turner
Matt Turner has lived in the Southwest since 1982 and currently resides in Prescott, Ariz. He has traveled extensively in the region and has done work in field ecology and cartography. In addition, Matt is an ecological consultant and a professional photographer.
 
Jeff Strang
Jeff Strang's knowledge of the environment stems from over 35 years of hiking, paddling, and photography in the outdoors, his extensive experience as a naturalist, as well as from his education at the University of Oregon and Lewis and Clark Law School. In 1987, Jeff filed a precedent-setting lawsuit against Oregon polluters under the Clean Water Act. Jeff has been leading Road Scholar programs since 2002. In his free time, Jeff enjoys biking to work, hiking, kayaking, outdoor photography and studying geology.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort and Suites
  Scottsdale, AZ 1 night
   Marble Canyon Lodge
  Marble Canyon 2 nights
   Grand Canyon National Park Lodges
  Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim) 1 night
   Hualapai Lodge
  Peach Springs, AZ 2 nights
 Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort and Suites
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Twenty five acre resort green landscaped on the Sonora Desert at the foot of Camelback Mountain in uptown Scottsdale, AZ.
  Contact info: 6160 N Scottsdale Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85253 USA
phone: 480-991-1414
web: www.scottsdalecottonwoods.com
  Room amenities: Plush top mattress, separate vanity area, mini refrigerator, coffee and tea station, work desk, wifi, whitewashed wood beamed ceilings, safes in every room, microwaves available in suites or upon request.
  Facility amenities: Fitness center, 2 outdoor pools, 2 outdoor whirlpool spas, tennis courts, shuffleboard, jogging, fitness and nature trails, hammocks. Borgata Shopping Center steps away, Scottsdale Fashion Square, largest mall in the Southwest, two miles south.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Additional nights prior: Seasonal Rates vary widely; winter/spring is peak season with rates from $150 - $250/night.
  Check in time: 4:00 PM

 Marble Canyon Lodge
Type: Lodge
  Description: Historic Lodge, first opened in 1927. All original rock masonry structures are still in use today with additional lodging facility and restaurant area added since. Many walking and hiking possibilities originate right on the lodge property.
  Contact info: Highway 89A at Lees Ferry Junction
Marble Canyon, AZ 86036 USA
phone: 928-355-2225
  Room amenities: Cable TV and air-conditioning.
  Facility amenities: Trading post; gas station; market; post office; guest laundry on site.
  Smoking allowed: Yes

 Grand Canyon National Park Lodges
Type: Lodge
  Description: Walking distance to canyon rim and other Grand Canyon Village attractions.
  Contact info: various locations
Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 USA
phone: 928-638-2625
web: www.grandcanyonlodges.com/static/64.htm
  Room amenities: Cable TV and telephone; air-conditioning
  Facility amenities: Walking paths to canyon rim; full-service cafeteria plus other restaurant options available. Note: we will stay in one of three different facilities under the same management, all pretty much equal in layout and amenities.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Hualapai Lodge
Type: Hotel
  Description: Beautiful, modern facility. Tribal artwork displayed; some traditional Hualapai cuisine served in restaurant.
  Contact info: 900 Highway Route 66
Peach Springs, AZ 86434 USA
phone: 928-769-2230
web: www.hualapaitourism.com/
  Room amenities: Cable TV and telephone; air-conditioning; hair-dryers; coffee-makers
  Facility amenities: Exercise room, private courtyard with seasonal outdoor pool (state-of-the-art non-chlorinated purification system) and spa.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Check out time: 11:00 AM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Scottsdale Cottonwood Resort and Suites. Check in after 3:00 PM. On site registration at the resort lobby from 4:30 PM - 5:15 PM. You will be staying at Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort and Suites that night.
  End of Program:
Return to Scottsdale with drop offs at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport by 12:30 PM followed by drop offs at starting hotel by 1:15 PM. You will be staying at Hualapai Lodge the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. Colorado River Discovery Rafting Requirements: Colorado River Discovery requires all participants on their Colorado River raft trips to sign an Acknowledgement of Risk form before embarking on the river. Please sign and return the enclosed form to the NAU Road Scholar office. If you have any questions regarding this form please call Colorado River Discovery at 888-522-6644. Hualapai River Runners Rafting Requirements: The Hualapai Tribe (and its business corporationHualaba:j Enterprises, Inc. doing business as Grand Canyon Resort Corporation) requires all participantson their Colorado River raft trips to sign an Assumption of Risk and Release of Liability form before embarking on the river. Please sign and return this enclosed form to the NAU Road Scholar office. If you have any questions regarding this release form call the Hualapai River Runners office at 928-769-2210.
  Parking availability:
Parking is free.
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  Scottsdale, AZ
  Nearest city or town:  Phoenix, AZ
  Nearest highway: I-10, US 60.
  Nearest airport:  Phoenix Sky Harbor International
  From End of Program
  Location:  Departures
Travel Details
 

Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort to/from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
Super Shuttle
phone: 800-258-3826
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$17
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

20 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

12 miles
   

Must have prepaid reservations - by internet at www.supershuttle.com, scroll to Phoenix Sky Harbor Intl Airport, or by phone at 800-258-3826. After you claim your luggage at Sky Harbor Airport, proceed to the outer island marked Van Service. A uniformed SuperShuttle Guest Service Representative will arrange transportation to your destination.
 

Hualapai Lodge

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
NAU Road Scholar Vehicle
phone: 928-523-2359

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

Included in program tuition
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

4.5 hours 
 

Distance:

 

200 miles
   

At end of program, Northern Arizona University Road Scholar vehicle will take you back to the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport or to the program's starting hotel.
 
Driving Directions
  Phoenix - Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort from I-10 Eastbound Stay on I-10 through downtown Phoenix. Merge onto Loop 202 toward Tempe / Mesa. Take Loop 101 North toward Scottsdale. Stay on 101 North until the Indian BEND (NOT Indian School) exit and turn left. At the traffic light on Scottsdale Road, turn left and get into the right lane on Scottsdale Road. Just south of Lincoln Dr, the resort will be on your right. You will turn right onto "Rose Lane", follow it left around an immediate bend in the road, and the resort lobby and parking is on your left. Do note that you should leave your luggage in the car as once you check into the hotel and register for the program, you will then drive a short distance to park for walking access to your room.
  Phoenix - Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort from I-10 Westbound Stay on I-10 west to the US 60 and exit east toward Mesa / Globe. Stay on US 60 east about 3 miles to Loop 101 north toward Scottsdale. Continue on Loop 101 North to Indian BEND (NOT Indian School) exit and turn left. At the traffic light on Scottsdale Road, turn left and get into the right lane on Scottsdale Road. Just south of Lincoln Dr, the resort will be on your right. You will turn right onto "Rose Lane", follow it left around an immediate bend in the road, and the resort lobby and parking is on your left. Do note that you should leave your luggage in the car as once you check into the hotel and register for the program, you will then drive a short distance to park for walking access to your room.
  To Cottonwoods Resort from I-17 Southbound Stay on I-17 south to the Loop 101 East exit. Continue on Loop 101 East until the Indian BEND (NOT Indian School) exit. Turn right (west) onto Indian Bend. At traffic light at Scottsdale Rd, turn left (south) and stay on Scottsdale Rd Just south of Lincoln Dr the hotel will be on your right.
Elevation Note: 3,600 feet at Marble Canyon, 7,000 feet at Grand Canyon and 5,000 feet Hualapai Lodge.
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: Check-In / Registration and Orientation
(Sunday, April 21)
   
 Afternoon: On site Northern Arizona University Road Scholar program registration from 4:30 - 5:15 PM in the hotel meeting room.
 Dinner: Dinner will be at the Cottonwoods Resort. Entrees will vary nightly and include a vegetarian option. Entrees include salad, assorted rolls & butter, light desert, and a non-alcoholic beverage.
 Evening: Northern Arizona University Road Scholar coordinator will direct a program orientation, review the weekly schedule and lead group introductions after dinner in the meeting room. Get prepared for the exciting adventure lays ahead and meet your fellow participants.
   
Accommodations: Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort and Suites
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Travel to Marble Canyon / Navajo Reservation and Historic Navajo Bridge
(Monday, April 22)
   
 Breakfast: Enjoy a continental breakfast at the resort, which includes: scrambled eggs, sliced fruit, whole grain breads, oatmeal or cereal, coffee,tea and juice.
 Morning: Depart for Marble Canyon (260 miles) via Flagstaff and Cameron. En route to Flagstaff via Interstate 17, you will encounter an amazing transition in life zones and topographic features. Witness the heart of the Sonoran Desert in Phoenix, transition to high-desert grassland, and then up into the largest Ponderosa pine forest in the world in Flagstaff. Travel through the San Francisco Peaks volcanic field, which contains the highest point in Arizona, Humphreys Peak, elev.12,633 feet, to the historic 1916 Cameron Trading Post, located on the western edge of the Navajo Reservation.
 Lunch: Lunch at Cameron Trading Post. In addition to standard lunch menu selections we will offer up and introduce you to the famous "Navajo Taco" - a light, crispy fry bread loaded with traditional taco toppings. It's a memorable experience!
 Afternoon: Depart Cameron, cross the Little Colorado River and travel in the shadows of the towering Echo Cliffs and the western edge of the Navajo Indian Reservation en route to Marble Canyon. Explore the 1928 Navajo Bridge that spans 600 feet across the Colorado River and Marble Canyon proper allowing access to the north side of the Grand Canyon. Check into Marble Canyon Lodge at the base of the Vermilion Cliffs. The original Marble Canyon Lodge was built in 1928 (coinciding with the construction of the Navajo Bridge) and continues to be a rest stop and service center for river runners, fishermen and national park travelers.
 Dinner: Marble Canyon Lodge serves a selection of American classic meals including lime chicken, pot roast and select pasta dishes. For vegetarians there will be vegetarian options available.
 Evening: An interesting evening program will be offered. Subjects will include one of the following based on the availability of regional experts: the Vermilion Cliffs California Condor re-introduction project, Colorado River history or regional geology.
   
Accommodations: Marble Canyon Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Smooth Water Colorado River Raft Trip in Glen Canyon.
(Tuesday, April 23)

Note: See Activity Details and Raft Logistics Above.



   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Marble Canyon Lodge restaurant. Hot and cold buffet items will be available.
 Morning: Depart for the Lee's Ferry and the Lonely Dell Ranch Historical area. Learn about the fascinating Mormon pioneer and river running history of this colorful area before embark on the Colorado River. Load onto Colorado River Discovery (CRD) rafts. CRD utilizes inflatable, motorized pontoon rafts comfortably carrying a maximum of 10 passengers and piloted by an experienced guide. Passengers will sit on top of the raft tubes on long flat metal sitting decks that are apart of the boat frame.The rafts navigate about fifteen river miles from Lees Ferry to Petroglyph Beach and back. The time spent on the river is typically about 3.5 hours. At the half way point, the rafts will pull to shore for a restroom break. The restrooms are well maintained vault toilets. Each raft carries emergency communications and safety equipment. Cold water and lemonade will be available at all times. Because this is a smooth water stretch of river (no rapids), the wearing of lifejackets by adults is optional. Weather conditions on the river change throughout the year, so dress for the season. In general, wear layers. Spring and Fall months, we can experience cooler temps and windy days, jackets and long pants are appropriate. During the summer months, shorts and light weight clothing are acceptable. Bring a brimmed hat, sunglasses, and river shoes or tennis shoes with a good sole that can get wet.
 Lunch: Lunch (sack lunches) will be at your leisure aboard the rafts.
 Afternoon: Continue Raft Trip. While on the river keep an eye out for California Condors, Peregrine Falcons and bighorn sheep. On board narration of natural features and area history will be provided by the boatman guide. Arrive back at Marble Canyon Lodge mid-afternoon.
 Dinner: Marble Canyon Lodge serves a selection of American classic meals including lime chicken, pot roast and select pasta dishes. For vegetarians there will be vegetarian options available.
 Evening: Free evening.
   
Accommodations: Marble Canyon Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Travel to Grand Canyon National Park/Desert View Watchtower and East Rim Viewpoints
(Wednesday, April 24)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Marble Canyon Lodge restaurant. Hot and cold buffet items will be available.
 Morning: Depart for Grand Canyon National Park. We will retrace our steps to Cameron, turn west, then continue up the Coconino Plateau to the eastern entrance of Grand Canyon National Park. At Desert View overlook, enjoy sweeping views of the Colorado River, the North Rim and Mary Jane Colter's Watchtower. The Watchtower is an interpretation of a prehistoric "tower kiva" with lavishly painted interior walls by Hopi artist Fred Kabotie. Continue along the "East Rim Drive" with diverse and unforgettable canyon views.
 Lunch: Sack lunches on the south rim of Grand Canyon.
 Afternoon: As you drive along the "East Rim Drive" the group will pass several vista points leading to Grand Canyon Village, your guide will point out significant canyon features. Arrive at the historic Grand Canyon Village. Your guide will orient the group to the many interesting historic buildings, sites and viewpoints in the area. Late afternoon check-in at a Grand Canyon lodge.
 Dinner: Dinner at your leisure at the Lodge Cafeteria. Choices include hot entrees, 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 National Park Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Morning Exploration of Grand Canyon / Travel Route 66 to the Hualapai Lodge.
(Thursday, April 25)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Lodge cafeteria. Options include scrambled eggs, pancakes, french toast, sausage, bacon, oatmeal, fresh fruit, juices, milk, coffee and more.
 Morning: After breakfast, we will check out of our hotel and load our vehicles with luggage before heading out for Grand Canyon activities. Enjoy the morning exploring historic Grand Canyon Village, walking rim trails to viewpoints, or walking a short way down the famous Bright Angel Trail. Your trip leaders will inform you of activity options that will include both guided exploration and opportunities to strike out on your own.
 Lunch: Lunch at either the Maswik Cafe or Canyon Cafe.
 Afternoon: We will depart Grand Canyon Village after lunch and head for the Hualapai Lodge. The group will travel along one of the longest and arguably best preserved section of historic Route 66 (look for the Burma Shave signs!). Travel through Seligman, Arizona, the birthplace of the Route 66 revival movement. Arrive at Hualapai Lodge for a late afternoon check-in.
 Dinner: Enjoy a buffet dinner at the Hualapai Lodge Restaurant.
 Evening: Evening program on Hualapai tribal issues, Hualapai culture (presented by tribal members), or Arizona ranching life (presented by a local ranching expert).
   
Accommodations: Hualapai Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Mojave Desert to Grand Can. West Airport. Helicopter to River and Smooth Water Raft Trip on the Colorado River through Western Grand Canyon
(Friday, April 26)

Note: See Activity Notes and Raft Trip Logistics Above.
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the Hualapai Lodge Restaurant.
 Morning: After breakfast depart for Quartermaster Point and Grand Canyon West (a Hualapai Nation enterprise). Travel along the Grand Wash Cliffs, the western most edge of the Colorado Plateau and the world class Joshua Tree forest en route to Grand Canyon West, and the start of a Colorado River raft trip. Travel time approximately 2.5 hours.
 Lunch: Sack lunches on rim or at the Colorado River in the bottom of Grand Canyon (depending on helicopter schedule).
 Afternoon: Arrive at Grand canyon West and raft the lower portion of the Colorado River from Grand Canyon West to Lake Mead with HUALAPAI RIVER RUNNER. Access to the boat ramp will be via a short helicopter ride from the rim. The Hualapai River Runners operate inflatable eight-passenger motorized pontoon rafts piloted by a Hualapai boatman.The group will be split between multiple rafts. Conditions on the river change throughout the year, so dress for the season. Prepare for hot (we start our raft trip in a desert environment) and possible cool weather conditions. Bring a brimmed hat, sunglasses, and river shoes or tennis shoes with a good sole that can get wet. Embarkation on raft trip involves a short steep walk down a series of stairs to the loading dock area. (assistance will always be provided if needed). This is a smoothwater stretch of river with no rapids but for added safety, life jackets will be fitted to each person before boarding the rafts. Passengers will sit on top of the raft tubes on a long flat metal sitting decks that are apart of the boat frame. The trip covers about 20 river miles through the lower end of the Grand Canyon before "exiting" through the Grand Wash Cliffs then taking out at Pearce Ferry boat ramp. Time spent on the river is typically 2.5 hours. There are porta-johns at the raft loading area. While on the river bathroom breaks will be au natural along the shore upon request. Water and drinks will be available at all times on the rafts. WIND AND SAFETY ADVISORY: Please note the ability to fly helicopters to the Colorado River and the start of the raft trip is dependent on wind conditions on the rim and in the canyon. On extremely windy days, due to safety concerns, helicopters will not be allowed to fly. Although this is always a possibility, it happens very infrequently. Your coordinator will provide an alternative activity in the area if this occurs.
 Dinner: Enjoy a well deserved dinner at a local restaurant in Kingman before returning to the Hualapai Lodge.
 Evening: Late return to the Hualapai Lodge.
   
Accommodations: Hualapai Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Travel back to Phoenix airport or Scottsdale hotel in Northern Arizona University Road Scholar coach or van.
(Saturday, April 27)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at Hualapai Lodge Restaurant.
 Morning: Load luggage. The Northern Arizona University Road Scholar coach or van will provide return transportation to Phoenix, arriving at the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport by 12:30 PM; continuing to starting hotel with arrival by approximately 1:15 PM.
 Lunch: "Lunchy" food and snacks en route to Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.
   
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
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


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



The Exploration of the Colorado River and Its Canyons


Author: Powell, John Wesley


Description: Full text of Powell's 1,000-mile expedition down the fabled Colorado in 1869. Superb account of terrain, geology, vegetation, Indians, famine, mutiny, treacherous rapids, mighty canyons. 240 illustrations. 432pp



Encounters with the Archdruid


Author: McPhee, John


Description: The narratives in this book are of journeys made in three wildernesses - on a coastal island, in a Western mountain range, and on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. The four men portrayed here have different relationships to their environment, and they encounter each other on mountain trails, in forests and rapids, sometimes with reserve, sometimes with friendliness, sometimes fighting hard across a philosophical divide. 256pp



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



Breaking Into the Current: Boatwomen of the Grand Canyon


Author: Teal, Louise


Description: This book profiles eleven of the first full-season Grand Canyon boatwomen, weaving together their various experiences in their own words. Breaking Into the Current is a story of romance between women and a place. Each woman tells a part of every Canyon boatwoman's story: when Marilyn Sayre talks about leaving the Canyon, when Ellen Tibbets speaks of crew camaraderie, or when Martha Clark recalls the thrill of white water, each tells how all were involved in the same romance. All the boatwomen have stories to tell of how they first came to the Canyon and why they stayed. As river guides in love with the Canyon and their work, these women have followed their hearts. 178pp



Cadillac Desert: The American West and Its Disappearing Water


Author: Reisner, Marc


Description: The story of the American West is the story of a relentless quest for a precious resource: water. It is a tale of rivers diverted and dammed, of political corruption and intrigue, of billion-dollar battles over water rights, of ecologic and economic disaster. In Cadillac Desert Marc Reisner writes of the earliest settlers, lured by the promise of paradise, and of the ruthless tactics employed by Los Angeles politicians and business interests to ensure the city's growth. Cadillac Desert is a stunning expose and a dramatic, intriguing history of the creation of an Eden--and Eden that may be only a mirage. 608pp



Half Broke Horses


Author: Walls, Jeannette


Description: This true life novel unfolds across Northern Arizona from the 1920s to the 1960s. Its heroine, Lily Casey Smith, battled the elements, prejudices, economic conditions and politics of remote frontier Arizona. Many of the locations described - Peach Springs, Seligman, Flagstaff, the Navajo Reservation, the Arizona Strip - are sites visited by NAU Road Scholar programs. Readers of this selection will feel the sense of heritage from this tale of life in our distant corner of America.



The Man Who Walked Through Time: The Story of the First Trip Afoot Through the Grand Canyon


Author: Fletcher, Colin


Description: The remarkable classic of nature writing by the first man ever to have walked the entire length of the Grand Canyon. 256pp





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