Planning a trip to a remote and expansive destination like Grand Canyon can be an intimidating affair. Rest assured that our staff is here to help you every step of the way. Answers to the most common questions can be found below. More information is available on our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page. If you have additional questions, feel free to contact us at gcfi@grandcanyon.org or (866) 471-4435.
Since 1993 it has been the Field Institute’s mission to share the rich cultural and natural history of Grand Canyon National Park with park visitors. We use the term “class” to highlight the educational component our expert instructors include in every outing, but there is an equal emphasis on fun.
Each class is organized chronologically by category. If your primary consideration for choosing a class is timing, check out the entire schedule in the Calendar of Classes.
Single-Day Classes and Tours
Multi-day Rim Classes and Tours
Multi-day Backcountry Classes and Tours
Whether you are joining us for a single-day rim class or a weeklong backpack, it’s imperative that you honestly assess your physical abilities. Physical tasks required of individual classes vary. Each class has been assigned a numeric difficulty ranking; for details, see our Hiking Difficulty Scale
Expert instruction by leading Grand Canyon scientists, authors, researchers, historians and naturalists
NPS-approved educational materials published by GCA
Backpacking and camping permits
Complimentary rim camping immediately before or after class, where applicable
Waiver of park entrance fees
Pre-class training, gear and food-planning lists specific to the class and route
Select premium classes may include meals, lodging, gear and mule pack service as indicated.
Class fees are on a per-person basis unless otherwise indicated. Members of Grand Canyon Association receive discounts on most classes. Join GCA now and receive the discounted price today!
Participants will receive an information packet including training tips, food-planning lists, weather charts, clothing suggestions and a detailed gear list tailored to specific routes (take a look at a PDF sample ).
If you are a newcomer to the great outdoors, you may wish to rent your gear either at home or upon your arrival in the park rather than buying it. Information on equipment rental for classes originating in Grand Canyon Village will be included in your packet.
By phone: (866) 471-4435
By fax or mail using the registration form
Class registration opens in November for the next year’s classes. Many classes fill quickly, but there are often openings throughout the year for classes.
Field Institute classes are open only to adults over the age of 18 (Family Classes excluded). Class fees are quoted on a per-person basis.
Unless otherwise specified, you will receive a full refund less an administrative fee of $75 per person if you cancel at least 30 days before the class begins. No refunds will be made for cancellations received less than 30 days before the class start date. As a nonprofit organization on a tight budget, the Field Institute cannot make exceptions to this refund policy for any reason, including personal emergencies or weather. For that reason, we strongly urge you to obtain trip cancellation insurance through your local travel agent.
If the Field Institute must cancel a class, you will receive a full tuition refund. We will notify you at least 30 days before the start date if we find it necessary to cancel. Classes using commercial river outfitters or collaborations with other organizations may have a special refund policy that will be set forth in preclass materials.
We aim to process refunds within 5 business days. Your credit card company or bank may take additional time.
Most Field Institute classes begin and end at Grand Canyon’s South Rim. The South Rim can be reached by plane, car, bus or train. For more details see our FAQ section.
Turn your family vacation into a true learning adventure.
Enroll today by calling us at (866) 471-4435 Learn More >
