Layers Of Time: Geology Of The Grand Canyon Camping Trip

Layers Of Time: Geology Of The Grand Canyon Camping Trip

The Grand Canyon reveals an extraordinary story etched in ancient rock layers—tales of vast oceans, towering mountains, and mighty rivers that have shaped our planet over billions of years. Early September brings cooler air and golden sunlight that illuminates the canyon walls, along with star-filled skies perfect for evening gatherings. Below, the Colorado River continues its timeless journey, carving through layers of stone that stretch endlessly into the horizon.

Pack your bags and join expert geologists Jan Schultz and Jeff Meyer for a 4-day, 3-night camping adventure in the heart of this natural wonder. We'll hike iconic trails such as the Trail of Time, where you'll walk through the geologic timeline step by step, and descend to Ooh Aah Point, which offers unique opportunities to connect with the canyon's geological past. Scenic overlooks like Yavapai Point and Lipan Point provide breathtaking backdrops for engaging discussions and moments of awe. Evenings will consist of relaxed moments spent sharing stories beneath the stars, reflecting on the day's discoveries, and building camaraderie with fellow participants.

Our days will balance structured learning with unstructured exploration. Expert-led lessons will illuminate topics such as mountain-building orogenies, shifting paleogeographic landscapes, and the powerful forces behind the canyon's formation. Hiking options will accommodate easy to intermediate abilities to ensure that everyone can experience the canyon's grandeur at their own pace. We will camp together at a shared group site within the park, complete with picnic tables, flush toilets, and drinking water spigots throughout the campground. Camping will primarily be in tents, and you'll have the option to drive your own vehicle or carpool.

This field camp offers a meet-up-style experience rather than a traditional guided tour. Professional facilitation will support your learning throughout the day, while evenings will foster a warm, communal atmosphere perfect for storytelling and connection. The program welcomes all levels of geologic interest, from beginners to seasoned learners. Prior to the trip, you will receive a detailed packing list and meal suggestions. You'll need to bring your own tent, sleeping gear, and cooking equipment.

Join us to explore the deep history and breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon in a setting designed to inspire curiosity, learning, and lasting friendships. This is more than a trip—it's a journey through time itself.

DETAILS:

WHERE: Grand Canyon National Park South Rim

WHEN: September 7-10, 2025 (3 nights, 4 days)

GROUP SIZE: 8 participants

AGES: Adults and youth 16 or older

COST: $647 for non-members, $582 for Nature Guardian and Champion Members

*Payments by check are encouraged to help us save on fees! To reserve your spot email us at jennie@naturalhistoryinstitute.org and mail a check to NHI, 126 N. Marina Street, Prescott, AZ, 86301.

SCHEDULE:

September 7th

• 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Afternoon Arrival and Set Up Camp
• 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Welcome Circle and Orientation, Lesson: Mountains Come and Go, How Do We Know?
• 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Unstructured Natural History and Dinner Time
• 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Visit Yavapai Geology Museum and Sunset at Yavapai Point

September 8th

• 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Lesson: Overview of Grand Canyon Geology Story
• 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Trail of Time Hike and Lunch in the Field
• 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM: Unstructured Natural History and Dinner Time
• 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM: Community Time and Sunset

September 9th

• 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Finish Trail of Time Hike and Lunch in the Field
• 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Afternoon Options:
• Option 1: Hike South Kaibab Trail to Ooh Aah Point
• Option 2: Kaibab Limestone Fossil Stop
• 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Unstructured Natural History and Dinner Time
• 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Community Time and Closing Circle

September 10th

• 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM: Lesson: Paleogeographic Summary
• 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Break Camp
• 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Carpool to Lipan Point and Lunch, Lesson: Carving of the Canyon
• 3:00 PM: Goodbyes and Departure from Lipan Point

Please note that the itinerary is tentative and subject to change as we approach the program date. While we aim to hike and visit these areas, some may be closed due to weather events, fires, or other factors beyond our control.

Jan Schultz taught geology at Santa Barbara City College for 30 years, specializing in geologic history and sedimentary geology. She taught courses such as Historical Geology and led field courses, including a two-week trip to the Colorado Plateau. After retiring to Prescott with her geologist husband, Jeff, Jan continued her passion for teaching by volunteering to lead field courses for Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria, California. Additionally, she served as the Project Director for a Department of Education STEM grant focused on supporting underrepresented STEM students.

Jeffrey Meyer completed his PhD research on a 24-million-year-old supervolcano, similar to Yellowstone. With 28 years of experience as a community college geology instructor, he maintained an active teaching presence, often engaging students in hands-on fieldwork. After retiring, Jeff and his wife—who is also a geologist—moved to Prescott, Arizona, into a home built by her parents. He continues to share his passion for geology as a part-time instructor at Prescott College and has dedicated significant time to studying the geology of the Grand Canyon.

CANCELLATION POLICY:

1. Participants who cancel more than 30 days before the Program (on or before August 7, 2025) will receive a full refund, minus a 10% administrative fee of the trip cost.
2. For cancellations with less than 30 days left before the 1st day of the Program (after August 7, 2025), no refund will be issued.
3. Any refund under this Agreement will be paid within 14 business days of NHI’s receipt of the refund request.
4. No refund for the Program will be available solely because of dissatisfaction with the presentation or contents of the Program. I understand and agree that no credit or refund for the Program shall be available if I cancel on the arrival day, if I do not show up, or if I leave the Program early for any reason.
5. All notices of cancellation and refund requests shall be made by contacting NHI via email info@naturalhistoryinstitute.org or by submitting notice in person or by mail to: NHI, 126 N. Marina Street, Prescott, AZ, 86301.

The Natural History Institute holds a Commercial Use Authorization permit to operate at the Grand Canyon National Park.