Colorado River Trip: The Natural History of Grand Canyon
Get ready for the ultimate adventure with this thrilling Grand Canyon rafting expedition, where the excitement of the Colorado River meets the beauty of the canyon's wilderness. As you navigate epic rapids, including the legendary Lava Falls, you’ll also have ample opportunity to hike deep into the heart of Grand Canyon’s rugged landscape. This journey combines the thrill of whitewater rafting with the wonder of exploration on foot, making it an adventure you'll never forget.
- Dates: August 28–September 7, 2025
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trip Length: 11 Days
- Cost: $5,550
- Group size: 15
Trip Highlights
- Experience a thrilling educational adventure through jaw-dropping rapids, learning about geology, botany, and ecology along the way
- Travel with expert guides while floating the USA's most iconic whitewater river
- Learn about the fascinating ecosystems of the Colorado River Corridor and the people who have relied on it over the centuries
- Explore the hidden treasures of Grand Canyon off the beaten path and off the river
- Connect with Grand Canyon’s rich history and diverse ecosystems up close
- Receive a signed copy of A Walk in the Park and Emerald Mile by Kevin Fedarko
- Engage in a seminar discussion with Grand Canyon adventurer Rich Rudow about the Colorado River
What's included
Price for the class includes:
Our expert guide
Travel from Flagstaff to Marble Canyon and back to Flagstaff from Diamond Creek
All meals when on the river
All camping gear when on the river including tent, sleeping pad, and bag
Coffee mug, waterproof Colorado River Guides, and use of three waterproof dry bags
What's not included
You are responsible for:
All of your personal equipment and clothes
Meals before you leave Flagstaff and meals after you return
Transportation to and from Flagstaff
Lodging in Flagstaff before or after your trip
Guide gratuity (industry recommendation 15-20% of trip cost, read this article to receive more guidance)
Itinerary
Cancellation Policy
Please notify our office as soon as possible should you need to cancel your registration. If you cancel or leave a trip early for any reason:
- 60+ Days prior to trip start date: full refund minus a 10% administrative fee.
- 59-45 Days prior to the trip start date: 50% refund will be issued.
- Less than 45 days prior to trip start date: no refund.
Reserved spots are transferable to different trips, if there is availability. This transfer can occur up to 45 days prior to the trip's start date.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute reserves the right to cancel all or a portion of a trip due the following circumstances; failure to meet the participant minimum and loss of scheduled staff due to injury or illness. In this event, participants will receive a full refund. In addition, Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute may cancel a trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather events, natural disasters, park closures, and health emergencies, and there is no alternative trip is available to you. If GCCFI cancels the trip due to unforeseen circumstances 15 days or more prior to departure, the customer will receive a full refund. If the trip is a multiday program and GCCFI cancels 14 days or less the customer will receive trip credit.
Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute is not responsible for: flight tickets, visa fees if applicable, gear, medical expenses, clothing, and any expenses occurred while preparing for this trip.
We highly recommend the purchase of trip insurance to help offset any cost incurred if cancellation occurs.
Payment Policy
To secure your booking, a 10% deposit of the total tour cost is required at the time of booking. This deposit confirms your reservation and guarantees your spot on the tour. An additional 50% payment of the balance is due 90 days before departure.
The remaining 40% of the balance is due 45 days before departure. Please ensure the final payment is made by this deadline to avoid any delays or complications with your tour.
If you have any questions or need assistance regarding the payment process, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Timely payments ensure we can provide the best possible experience, and we look forward to welcoming you on your tour.
Testimonials
The Zelkovic Family
“Our day with the Field Institute exceeded all our expectations and we came away with a great respect for the canyon and for the work of the Conservancy. It was such a wonderful experience from beginning to end and hope we can return in the not so distant future to participate in one of your multi-day programs.”
The Jankowskis
“Our family’s experience was nothing short of amazing! Slim (our guide) provided a perspective we would have never been able to get on our own and we learned so much. Her passion for the canyon and what she does came through too, which made our time something we’ll never forget!”
Amy Waits
“The guides were awesome – so educational and patient!!! Encouraging & helpful in every way. Such an amazing first visit to the canyon – Life changing to have experienced the GC up close & personal… Thank you so much!”
Joe Sweeney
“I've brought many school groups to the Field Institute and the quality of instruction provides them with an understanding of Indigenous cultures, diverse ecology, and geologic history. Students leave with a stronger sense of self-confidence, an intimate connection to nature, and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Andy M.
“Top to bottom, the Field Institute exceeded all of my expectations .... they ensured we packed wisely for our trip and saved me from lugging around 5 lbs. of junk I didn't need. Overall, it's packed with value that I don't think commercial outfitters would provide and delivered a deeply rich experience.”