Driving approximately 90 miles total throughout the day; about 2 hour, with stops. Walking approximately 1 - 2 miles depending on activities participated in on the North Rim. Walks are on paved and unpaved, rolling trails with about 100 feet of elevation change.
Due to the fluid nature of Covid restrictions, breakfast details are pending. Once it is determined if meals will be plated, buffet, etc., we will update this site accordingly. Y
After departing the hotel, we will begin our journey towards the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. We’ll drive southbound across the Kaibab Plateau through forests of Ponderosa pines, spruce, fir and quaking aspen, as well as huge meadows—more reminiscent of Montana than Arizona. As we travel we will climb to over 8,000' in elevation. En route, we’ll learn through an onboard lecture why fire is important to the health of Ponderosa pine forests and what happens when fires are suppressed for 100 years. As we travel, we may see the unique Kaibab squirrel, wild turkey, and deer. Upon arrival into the park, our first stop will be Grand Canyon's Point Imperial, the highest point on the north rim at 8,803 feet. Point Imperial overlooks the Painted Desert and the eastern end of Grand Canyon. We will have an introductory talk on the North Rim's unique characteristics before our lunch.
In the field, we will have boxed lunches including a deli-style sandwich, chips, fresh fruit, and a cookie or granola bar.
Following lunch we will head to the Lodge area of the park, where participants will be able to choose from a guided hike along the Transept trail, enjoy a short walk to the awe inspiring Bright Angel Viewpoint (hold on to your hat!) or enjoy the gift shops and ambiance of the lodge. After our late afternoon departure from the park we will return to Kanab, stopping along the way at Jacob Lake Inn for our final celebratory dinner. We will arrive at the hotel back in Kanab approximately 8:30PM.
At the Jacob Lake Inn, a pine-surrounded log structure with a fireplace and a wonderfully homey feel, we will enjoy some of its home-cooked fare with a plated meal. Coffee, tea, soft drinks, water included.
Rest up after a very full day and begin to pack up for tomorrow's departure back to Las Vegas.