Arizona
Hiking the Grand Canyon: Adventures On and Below the South Rim
Program No. 6112RJ
Gain a deeper understanding of the Grand Canyon as you join experts for hikes on and below the South Rim. Naturalists provide insight into the canyon’s epic natural and human histories.
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6 days
5 nights
13 meals
5B 4L 4D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Grand Canyon - South Rim
2
West Rim Trail Hike, Bright Angel Trail Hike
Grand Canyon - South Rim
3
Palisades of the Desert Hike, Desert View
Grand Canyon - South Rim
4
Red Mountain Volcano, Free Time
Grand Canyon - South Rim
5
South Kaibab Trail Hike to Cedar Ridge & Skeleton Point
Grand Canyon - South Rim
6
Program Concludes
Grand Canyon - South Rim
At a Glance
Hike through stands of pinyon-juniper and around yucca and agave, as you venture along and below the rim of the Grand Canyon. Travel back through geological time, with naturalists providing insights into the landscape’s epic natural and human histories. Descend below the canyon’s rim on the historic Bright Angel and South Kaibab Trails. See more of this natural wonder than you ever imagined, with hikes along the western rim viewpoints and others at some of the park’s eastern most points, Desert View Watchtower and the Palisades of the Desert.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Hike 3-6 miles daily over uneven terrain, high steps, desert vegetation, rocky areas, elevation changes up to 1,200 feet. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Venture out on hikes on and below the rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
- Learn from experienced naturalists about an array of topics ranging from the surrounding landscapes to current park management issues.
- Enjoy an off-the-beaten-path hike at the Palisades of the Desert, the eastern Grand Canyon’s sherbet-colored cliffs with distant views of the historic Desert View Watchtower.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Mike Masek
View biography
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.
Lisa Kearsley
View biography
Lisa Kearsley moved to Arizona in the 1980s to earn a master’s degree in biology at Northern Arizona University and, like many who have come to Arizona, she never left. She has worked for the National Park Service at Grand Canyon as an interpretive park ranger and as a researcher, studying the effects of Glen Canyon Dam on the river. She also is a natural science illustrator, working with pen and ink, as well as watercolor.
Eric Kee
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Eric Kee was born and raised on the Navajo Reservation in Tuba, City, Ariz. In addition to sharing his Navajo culture, Eric enjoys spending his spare time building Native American flutes, working with silver and enjoys hiking, kayaking, camping with his family. He met his wife in Florence, Italy during his three years teaching English and working Italian camps for kids. He, along with his wife and three children, currently reside in Tuba City, Arizona.
Kristin Hooten
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Kristin Hooten has spent the majority of her life in the mountains of Flagstaff, Arizona. She earned a bachelor's degree in Parks and Recreation Management with an emphasis in Outdoor Education and Leadership from Northern Arizona University. Kristin has worked in the outdoor industry in different capacities and enjoys her ongoing education with the surrounding region. When not in the office or field, she is found enjoying the great outdoors either on a paddleboard or in her camper.
Slim Woodruff
View biography
Marjorie “Slim” Woodruff is a graduate of Northern Arizona University. She has worked in outdoor recreation and education for most of her adult life. Slim is a board member and outings chair for the Grand Canyon Historical Society. She is a senior instructor with the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. Living on the South Rim, her usual hangouts are inside the canyon. Her writings can be found in High Country News Writers on the Range and The Outdoor Journal.
Suggested Reading List
(10 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Hiking the Grand Canyon: Adventures On and Below the South Rim
Program Number: 6112
Beyond the Hundredth Meridian: John Wesley Powell and the Second Opening of the West
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.
Living at the Edge: Explorers, Exploiters, and Settlers of the Grand Canyon Region
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.
An Introduction to Grand Canyon Prehistory
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.
A Field Guide to the Grand Canyon
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.
Introduction to Grand Canyon Geology
This overview of Grand Canyon geology is perfect for the first-time visitor or the seasoned Grand Canyon traveler. Chapters cover the basic principles 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.
Carving Grand Canyon: Evidence, Theories, and Mystery
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.
I Am the Grand Canyon: The Story of the Havasupai People
I Am the Grand Canyon is the story of the Havasupai people. From their origins among the first group of Indians to arrive in North America some 20,000 years ago to their epic struggle to regain traditional lands taken from them in the nineteenth century, the Havasupai have a long and colorful history. The story of this tiny tribe once confined to a toosmall reservation depicts a people with deep cultural ties to the land, both on their former reservation below the rim of the Grand Canyon and on the surrounding plateaus.
In the spring of 1971, the federal government proposed incorporating still more Havasupai land into Grand Canyon National Park. At hearings that spring, Havasupai Tribal Chairman Lee Marshall rose to speak. "I heard all you people talking about the Grand Canyon," he said. "Well, you're looking at it. I am the Grand Canyon!" Marshall made it clear that Havasu Canyon and the surrounding plateau were critical to the survival of his people; his speech laid the foundation for the return of thousands of acres of Havasupai land in 1975.
I Am the Grand Canyon is the story of a heroic people who refused to back down when facing overwhelming odds. They won, and today the Havasupai way of life quietly continues in the Grand Canyon and on the surrounding plateaus.
Life in Stone: Fossils of the Colorado Plateau
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.
Down the Great Unknown: John Wesley Powell's 1869 Journey of Discovery and Tragedy Through the Grand Canyon
On May 24, 1869 a one-armed Civil War veteran, John Wesley Powell and a ragtag band of nine mountain men embarked on the last great quest in the American West. The Grand Canyon, not explored before, was as mysterious as Atlantis—and as perilous. The ten men set out from Green River Station, Wyoming Territory down the Colorado in four wooden rowboats. Ninety-nine days later, six half-starved wretches came ashore near Callville, Arizona.
Lewis and Clark opened the West in 1803, six decades later Powell and his scruffy band aimed to resolve the West’s last mystery. A brilliant narrative, a thrilling journey, a cast of memorable heroes—all these mark Down the Great Unknown, the true story of the last epic adventure on American soil.
The Emerald Mile: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon
In the spring of 1983, massive flooding along the length of the Colorado River confronted a team of engineers at the Glen Canyon Dam with an unprecedented emergency that may have resulted in the most catastrophic dam failure in history. In the midst of this crisis, the decision to launch a small wooden dory named “The Emerald Mile” at the head of the Grand Canyon, just fifteen miles downstream from the Glen Canyon Dam, seemed not just odd, but downright suicidal.
The Emerald Mile, at one time slated to be destroyed, was rescued and brought back to life by Kenton Grua, the man at the oars, who intended to use this flood as a kind of hydraulic sling-shot. The goal was to nail the all-time record for the fastest boat ever propelled—by oar, by motor, or by the grace of God himself—down the entire length of the Colorado River from Lee’s Ferry to Lake Mead. Did he survive? Just barely. Now, this remarkable, epic feat unfolds here, in The Emerald Mile.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
13 meals (
5B, 4L, 4D
)
7 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Lodge check-in from 3:00 p.m. See your program’s GETTING THERE information regarding transfers.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 5:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the dining area to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Orientation: 5:30 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions in our private meeting area. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Educational content will be provided by our knowledgeable Group Leaders. Transportation will be primarily via passenger vans and free Park Service shuttle buses, unless otherwise specified. Field trips go rain or shine. There are typically no restroom facilities on the trail. Breakfasts and most dinners will be at the lodge restaurant; sack lunches. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/current conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
Dinner at the Yavapai Lodge Restaurant dining hall.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night's rest for the day ahead.
Day
2
West Rim Trail Hike, Bright Angel Trail Hike
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Getting on/off park shuttles; driving about 12 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Hiking 4 to 5 miles throughout the day; well-maintained trails; elevation change of about 700 feet. No restroom facilities on the trail, except for one about halfway through the morning Rim Trail hike.
Breakfast:
At Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall.
Morning:
From the lodge, we will board a National Park Service shuttle bus and ride to our trailhead, where we’ll set out with our Group Leaders on a three-mile hike along the Rim Trail from Mohave Point to Grand Canyon Village. We will stop for short trailside talks at appropriate vantage points to learn about Grand Canyon geology, ecology, and human history. Excellent views of the Colorado River are a highlight on this mostly level hike that will end at the Bright Angel Trailhead in Grand Canyon Village.
Lunch:
At Maswik Lodge Food Court.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we’ll take a short walk to the trailhead, then hike down the Bright Angel Trail with our Group Leaders to get a feel for hiking on an inner canyon trail below the rim. Hiking leaders will describe the details, length, and destination of the hike they will lead. Road Scholars will subdivide into smaller groups and venture on the hike of their choosing. At the conclusion of the hike, we’ll return to Yavapai Lodge via the National Park Service shuttles.
Dinner:
At Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall.
Evening:
At leisure. You might like to take the park shuttle to a viewpoint for a Grand Canyon sunset, spend time with fellow Road Scholars, or just relax.
Day
3
Palisades of the Desert Hike, Desert View
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Getting in/out of vans, driving about 50 miles throughout the day, approximately 1 hour total riding time. Hiking about 6 miles, approximately 5 hours; first 1/2 mile mostly level terrain on old road bed, descends 700 feet to Palisades Rim then rocky trail, side-hill contouring, minor elevation changes. No restroom facilities on the trail.
Breakfast:
At Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall.
Morning:
We’ll ride with our Group Leaders to the Desert View area on the eastern end of the South Rim for our Palisades of the Desert hike. This is a true “off the beaten path” hike, not found in guide books. Beginning on an abandoned rocky road and ending up on a massive escarpment of the eastern 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. Highlights will include remote and quiet hiking locations with few (if any) other visitors, colorful views of the distant Painted Desert, potential wildlife sightings, and striking views of the eastern portion of the Grand Canyon.
Lunch:
Along the trail, we’ll have sack lunches.
Afternoon:
After completing our hike, we’ll have some time for independent exploration of the Desert View area, including the famous Watchtower designed by architect Mary Colter. We’ll have sweeping views of the Colorado River and distant views of the Painted Desert. Group Leaders will be available during this time to answer questions. We’ll ride back to the lodge after our field trip.
Dinner:
At Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall.
Evening:
At leisure. You might like to take the park shuttle to a viewpoint for a Grand Canyon sunset, spend time with fellow Road Scholars, or just relax.
Day
4
Red Mountain Volcano, Free Time
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Getting in/out of vans; driving about 87 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours total riding time. Hiking about 3 miles round-trip, approximately 2.5 hours; well-established trail with good footing, fine volcanic cinder, gradual incline climbing/descending approximately 300 feet. No restroom facilities on the trail.
Breakfast:
At Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall.
Morning:
We will hop into vans and ride outside the park boundary to experience a less-visited but awesomely exceptional hike in the Kaibab National Forest. The Red Mountain hike offers great scenic and geologic rewards. A massive steam explosion in the flank of the Red Mountain cinder cone volcano late in its eruption, followed by subsequent erosion, have resulted in a geologic fairyland of spires, pinnacles, and hoodoos. Upon completion of our hike, we’ll return to the lodge.
Lunch:
In the field, we’ll have sack lodges.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leaders will be happy to offer suggestions and advice. If you would like to explore independently, some of the available activities include riding the park's Hermit Road shuttle to various viewpoints and Hermit’s Rest, exploring the many interesting buildings in the historic Grand Canyon Village, visiting Yavapai Geology Museum and walking the Trail of Time, renting a bicycle and riding the Greenway Trail, and more.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. There are a number of dining venues to choose from in the park. If you are interested in dining at the El Tovar Hotel, note that advance reservations are required for both lunch and dinner. These reservations are best made as far in advance as possible (up to one month out). Call 928-638-2631 and ask for the El Tovar dining room, or visit https://www.grandcanyonlodges.com/dine/el-tovar-dining-room-and-lounge/.
Evening:
At leisure. You might like to take the park shuttle to a viewpoint for a Grand Canyon sunset, spend time with fellow Road Scholars, or just relax.
Day
5
South Kaibab Trail Hike to Cedar Ridge & Skeleton Point
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Getting on/off park shuttle; riding about 3 miles, approximately 1/2 hour. Hiking choices from 3-6 miles throughout the day depending on route preference; steep but well-maintained trail, approximately 4 to 5 feet wide, numerous water bars, step pads. Elevation changes from 1,100 to 2,000 feet depending on route preference.
Breakfast:
At Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall.
Morning:
With our Group Leaders, we will use the park's shuttle buses to ride to the South Kaibab Trailhead for our hike to Cedar Ridge, which features vast, sweeping inner canyon views. We will divide into smaller groups with separate hike leaders and stagger groups along the trail as we descend. This will aid in the dissemination of information along the trail and make passing by other hikers easier and safer. This hike will be among the highlights of the program. We’ll traverse several of the geologic layers of the canyon, including the Coconino Sandstone, which contains fossilized reptile tracks. Along the way, we’ll encounter amazing inner canyon views, watch out for California condors soaring overhead, and enjoy trailside talks by our Group Leaders at various points of interest and at Cedar Ridge.
Lunch:
Along the trail, we’ll have sack lunches.
Afternoon:
Our South Kaibab Trail hike will continue. Weather permitting, those who wish to extend the route farther into the canyon to Skeleton Point are welcome to do so (an additional 1.5 miles and 1,000 foot loss of elevation one-way). Those who choose not to go farther into the canyon will hike back up to the rim at their own pace. After the hike, we will take the park shuttle back to the lodge, with time to freshen up before dinner.
Dinner:
At a nearby restaurant. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At the restaurant with our Group Leader, we will have a program wrap-up and reflect on our experiences. Returning to the lodge, the remainder of the evening will be at leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
Program Concludes
Location:
Grand Canyon - South Rim
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Lodge check-out 11:00 a.m. Road Scholar shuttle departs for Flagstaff at 7:30 am.
Breakfast:
At Yavapai Lodge Dining Hall. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
13 Meals
5 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
4 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
- Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 14, 2025
- Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025
- Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025
- Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
- Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 10, 2025
- Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025
- Mar 15, 2026 - Mar 20, 2026
- Mar 29, 2026 - Apr 03, 2026
- Apr 12, 2026 - Apr 17, 2026
- Sep 20, 2026 - Sep 25, 2026
- Oct 04, 2026 - Oct 09, 2026
- Oct 18, 2026 - Oct 23, 2026
Participant Reviews
Based on 37 Reviews
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This was an amazing trip! Lisa and Mike were excellent team leaders. Their knowledge and personal experiences with the canyon were invaluable. They listened to the us and ensured we had the experience of watching the effect of sunset on the canyon rim one night. We got to experience Red Mountain and Desert View with fewer crowds. I got to experience the canyon not only from the top, but from within as well. Magnificent views and excellent leadership!
— Review left October 27, 2024
Road Scholar does an excellent job of taking you to just the right places to experience the magic of the Grand Canyon. The hikes are well paced and several drop down into the canyon. The guides are extremely knowledgeable and very personable, which added to the fun and camaraderie on the trip. Based on this experience I would definitely do another Road Scholar trip!
— Review left October 25, 2024
The RoadScholar Grand Canyon South Rim experience was wonderful – beyond our most optimistic dreams! Our Guides, Joel, Eric and Chris were very knowledgeable, clearly enjoyed their work and, best of all, they were, all 3, really good guys. The specific hikes they picked out for our group were perfect: neither too easy nor too strenuous, but always breathtakingly beautiful and fascinating. The lodging and food were so-so but very convenient; so, in the end, I think they were the best choice for our hikes and our wallets. Our fellow RoadScholars were a great bunch and a joy to be with. This trip has us convinced: it will definitely not be our last RoadScholar adventure!
— Review left October 14, 2024
Fabulous trip Hiking the Grand Canyon; Above and Below the South Rim! Hotter and more strenuous then I expected but the guides were open to options, genuinely interested it making it the best experience for all, and so friendly, knowledgeable, and passionate about the program I made it through enthusiastically and unscathed.Looking forward to more Road Scholar adventures.
— Review left October 13, 2024
Sorry for the late review...
Enjoyed the trip...was better than I expected... Lisa and Eric were excellent guides...
The 'right' level of physical challenge and the 'right' level of education, in my opinion...
taking another Road Scholar trip next week... hoping for a similar positive experience :)
Larry
— Review left August 21, 2024
I had a wonderful time! The sixteen others on the trip with me invigorated me and inspired me as we hiked. The group leaders/experts are wonderful people and very knowledgeable. I hope I can catch some of the leaders/experts on other trips I take in the future.
— Review left April 20, 2024
Great leaders and great trip. Thank you
— Review left November 11, 2023
Wow--a wonderful introduction to the Grand Canyon. Just be sure you can stay on your feet for most of the day.
— Review left October 31, 2023
This was my first Road Scholar trip and it exceeded my expectations in every way. Our guides were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. The Grand Canyon is a place that should be experienced through hiking, and this trip did not disappointment.
— Review left October 30, 2023
Had a wonderful hiking experience with Lisa and Mike Kearsley as our guides. Beautiful weather and even though the Kaibob trail was challenging it was great to say that I now have hiked it!!! Lisa and Mike are extremely knowledgeable and passionate about the Grand Canyon!!!!! Would highly recommend this trip!
— Review left October 21, 2023
Excellent program! The Grand Canyon, one of our national treasures is magnificent and fascinating. What better way to learn about it than to hike in it and its surrounding areas. It was also nice to stay within the park. Length of program is just right and the instructors were top-notch.
— Review left October 9, 2023
Great program! Do remember to bring a flashlight. The walk back from the lodge to the rooms is very dark. Also, the written material is a bit confusing regarding tipping. You are allowed to tip the leaders and I encourage everyone to do so.
— Review left October 9, 2023
This is a wonderful way to explore the south rim of the GC! Loved the itnerary and the leaders. Thanks for a truly memorable trip!
— Review left October 4, 2023
Physical activity in an awesome surrounding led by engaging and knowledgeable leaders in a group of interesting and friendly people. What could be better?!
— Review left October 3, 2023
I had a fantastic vacation. This was my first Road Scholar Trip and I will certainly be back again.
RS was always available to answer questions, easy to get a hold of. Everything promised was fulfilled. The shuttles, although confusing at first, worked out perfectly. Groome Shuttle Co gets kudos for personal and timely service. I will highly recommend them .
I was fortunate the weather was perfect this time of year, and I was packed appropriately for it.
Our trip leaders were attentive, kind, knowledgeable and I felt comfortable putting myself into their care. I did not question their judgement at all (well, except how they seemed dismissed a + covid case as not being a concern to the rest of us. In this post covid world I have learned to accept that we all have different responses. If covid is a concern, I would suggest bringing your own test kits to use).
I liked the size of our Group of 17, that allowed for personal conversations and connections that will hopefully last. The lodging, meals, level of activity, private time all worked out well for me .
Thank you.
— Review left May 6, 2023
Tour leaders Stewart, Tom, & Slim are very knowledgeable & have great communications skills. The hikes were wonderful, adapted to a variety of levels. Accommodations quite adequate (1960s'ish motel, cafeteria food not bad, no Wi-fi in rooms—but fine dining & connectivity weren't the point of the trip). Overall, a great experience (though I think the one COVID case that popped up among us could have been handled in a more proactive way).
— Review left May 1, 2023
Hiking the Grand Canyon: Adventures On and Below the South Rim was a great exploration of the Grand Canyon. The hikes were interesting and we experienced several areas not normally seen there. The instructors were knowledgeable explaining the history, topography, and cultural significance of the area. The elevation of the canyon certainly impacts hiking so start preparing well in advance. All in all, a great trip!
— Review left April 25, 2023
A. This has been a well organized group experience....from communication in the weeks before the event to the preparation for chronologically advantaged adults, this has been outstanding.
B. The guides for this experience are incredible. They have not only a solid understanding and knowledge of their topic, they also know how to communicate that knowledge in interesting and relevant means. I've appreciated their use of constructive metaphors and analogies. I also appreciate their humor and patience.
C. Our national parks are an invaluable source of inspiration, appreciation of history and culture, and renewal of faith in the decency of humanity.
— Review left April 21, 2023
Hiking the Grand Canyon - South Rim was outstanding. If you are and avid hiker, looking for spectacular views, and want to learn with the best, then this is the tour for you.
— Review left March 22, 2023
This was a wonderful trip. The Canyon is something every American should get to see. Doing it with Road Scholar, Joel, and Carl made the trip a wonderful experience. The level of expertise and knowledge make your time and visit a great life experience. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to see and understand the Grand Canyon.
— Review left October 30, 2022
Seeing the Grand Canyon was on my bucket list and it did not disappoint. The trip was fun, challenging, educational and exciting. The leaders were friendly and so knowledgeable. The other participants were very friendly and the made the trip even more fun!
— Review left October 17, 2022
my experience of the Grand Canyon facilitated by Road Scholar far exceeded expectations.
— Review left October 17, 2022
I have always wanted to visit the Grand Canyon. This Road Scholar trip was the perfect way to see it and learn about it.
— Review left May 12, 2022
What a great hiking adventure! Donnie, Amanda, and “Slim” were wonderful guides -so full of interesting information which they shared along our trails. Our lodgings were inside the park, where we saw elk, mule deer, and feral horses on several days. We had an opportunity to explore the Rim Trail as well as exploring portions of two canyon trails: the Bright Angel Trail and South Kaibab Trail. We divided into sub-groups for hiking into the canyon. One could choose a mild, moderate, or more strenuous day. We were also taken on some 'off the beaten track' hikes in the nearby Palisades and to Red Mountain Volcano. One afternoon was left open for independent exploring of the Grand Canyon Village. They have an excellent shuttle system to get around the park. Many in our group also gathered independently to view the sunset over the canyon one evening; and my husband and I got up early (4am) one morning to view the sunrise over the canyon. Both were spectacular. We even had a short impromptu “Star Party” one night. Check the weather forecasts and pack accordingly. Evenings can be downright cold (especially with a stiff wind), but daytime in the canyon can be quite warm. Dress in layers and make sure you carry sufficient water (2-3 liters) in your pack. I recommend hiking poles, also. Don't miss this excellent adventure if you want to see and learn about the Canyon.
— Review left May 3, 2022
The Grand Canyon trip was spectacular. Thanks to Road Scholar and our exceptional guides for a unique and memorable experience.
— Review left April 30, 2022
The Grand Canyon is magical and I learned why on this trip.
— Review left April 30, 2022
Wonderful trip, you should be in good physical condition to take lengthy hikes that can be steep and also be interested in the rich history of the canyon and its people.
— Review left April 25, 2022
The Grand Canyon, South rim adventure was incredible. An experience I highly recommend especially if you are a hiker and love being outdoors!
— Review left April 21, 2022
I had a wonderful experience during my first trip ever to The Grand Canyon. We hiked in several non-crowded areas that I would not have known about had it not been for our very knowledgeable Road Scholar leader, Carl. This was nice because it was “Spring Break” time and the park was crowded. We went to some beautiful and picturesque places in and near The Grand Canyon. I learned a great deal from Carl about the geology and history of The Canyon and about its biological diversity. I can’t wait for another trip to The Canyon!
— Review left March 18, 2022
I loved the 3 mile down, 3 mile up South Kaibab hike! Testing myself on the Bright Angel trail on the first day made me sure I could do that (optional) distance. The off-the-beaten track hike was a wonderful, intimate and more private GC and cultural history experience. Staying at the Canyon - with access to the NPS shuttle system - has advantages and allows for great options on how to use free time if you don't bring a car. I hiked more rim and watched a spectacular sunset over the canyon. I had never been to the Grand Canyon and this was a great, safe introduction at the perfect time of year. I might have preferred other food choices, but I did bring some of my own and there was a small grocery store available (since some people live at the Canyon.) Thank you, RS.
— Review left October 31, 2021
Hiking the Grand Canyon was an awesome experience. Stewart and Donnie were knowledgeable and attentive leaders who enabled us to coalesce as a group. I would recommend this trip to anyone who likes to hike in an inspiring setting. The course description is accurate and you will find this to be a memorable experience.
— Review left October 12, 2021
Grand Canyon, below the rim
— Review left September 27, 2021
I initially signed up for a "Challenging" Grand Canyon trip and then backed down to "Spirited," and I was glad I did because of the weather, especially the temperature and wind, the altitude, and my own physical capability. That said, this was an active trip and I felt fulfilled in all ways by the experiences provided.
— Review left November 5, 2019
If you are interested in seeing one of the 7 natural wonders of the world, close and personal, this program will meet your expectations. The physical aspects of the hike are challenging and exhilarating!
— Review left October 7, 2019
BE ABLE TO WALK AT A FAST PACE FOR THREE HOURS, BE ABLE TO CLIMP WITH MINABLE REST BE ABLE TO BE AMAZED. IT'S THE GRAND CANYON!!!!
— Review left October 7, 2019
This is an exciting and enriching program, a great way to learn about this amazing national park!
— Review left April 12, 2019
Hiking the Grand Canyon rim trails are a piece of cake since they're relatively flat. Hiking down into the Canyon is quite another matter because, obviously, one must hike back out. (No shuttle bus stops in the canyon, baby!) Be prepared, read the packet, listen to the guides, and know your abilities. It's challenging because of the higher elevation, the steepness, less oxygen, and you're heading back to the rim when you're already a bit tired. Whew! We did our initial descent on the Bright Angel Trail after lunch the first day. I think it was arranged that way so that we could see the unprepared park visitors merrily rushing down, then see scores of them sweating and dragging on their way out (often with crying children in tow.) It was an eye-opener. However, we were prepared, there was no rush on our returns, and we all did well on this trip. We had options for when we wanted to head back out. Most of my previous hikes had been uphill first with the downhills on the return (or a combination.) This trip was exhilarating because it was harder on the return and gave me more confidence in my abilities. Our guides, Bruce, Norm & Slim, were terrific.
— Review left April 8, 2019
