Get Ready for Grand Canyon Field Institute Trips

About Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute

Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute (GCCFI) provides amazing immersive and educational adventures at Grand Canyon—all officially designed and developed in partnership with Grand Canyon National Park. Whether you’re looking for a day hike for your family, a once-in-a-lifetime backpacking trip, or world-class instruction in drawing landscapes, the Field Institute has a variety of programs designed to inspire you above and below the rim of Grand Canyon.

For over two and a half decades, the Field Institute has been working closely with the National Park Service to provide educational opportunities that complement the park's interpretive efforts. Each program is reviewed by an interdisciplinary team of NPS educators and resource managers to ensure that it meets the educational goals of the park.

Our classes and tours focus on GCC’s core values of integrity, education, service, and connection. We promote a sense of place, encouraging an ethic of caring and connecting with Grand Canyon on a deeper emotional and spiritual level. We believe that the more humans collectively care about a place, the better the chance that it will be safeguarded and protected for generations to come.

Take A Closer Look

Check out the following GCCFI trips planned for 2026. We grouped each based on those seeking a leisurely experience, learning adventure, or challenging excursion.

3 Leisurely GCCFI Trips

For those looking for a more leisurely experience

These trips are perfect for those who prefer a more laid-back pace while still enjoying the grandeur of Grand Canyon.

#1 Phantom Ranch Hiking Tour (Feb 11-14)

Embark on a unique opportunity to stay at the historic Phantom Ranch, nestled at the bottom of Grand Canyon. Enjoy the comfort of a cozy 10-person cabin and savor hearty meals without the burden of heavy backpacking gear. 

Explore the rich history of Phantom Ranch and learn about Mary Colter, the renowned architect behind its design. This trip combines comfort with breathtaking canyon views, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed adventure.

#2 Bright Angel Loop: Canyon Backpacking Classics (May 10-14, Nov 1-5)

A perfect introduction to backpacking in Grand Canyon, the South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails make their way through a diverse cross section of geology and ecology. 

Enjoy spectacular river views and hikes to side creeks and canyons, and camp at iconic Bright Angel Campground and Havasupai Gardens along the route. 

#3 Havasupai Gardens: Intro to Backpacking(April 6-9, May 27-30, Oct 23-26)

Designed for families and beginners, this trip introduces you to backpacking in Grand Canyon with manageable trails and a focus on essential skills. Explore the canyon’s hidden treasures while learning about its natural and cultural features. 

This is a great option for those new to backpacking who want an introductory experience.

3 Educational GCCFI Trips

For those looking to learn on their adventure

#1 Geology Hike and Camp: South Rim (Mar 20-22)

Explore Grand Canyon’s geological wonders with informative talks, short hikes, and dramatic overlooks. This trip provides a comprehensive introduction to the canyon’s geology, including rock types, formation theories, and notable geologists. 

While the hikes are moderate, the focus on geology makes this an educational and engaging adventure.

#2 Horseshoe Mesa Backpacking: Canyon Stories (Apr 15-19)

Experience the rugged terrain of Horseshoe Mesa with steep trails and stunning campsites. This trip combines hiking with an exploration of the canyon’s mining history and diverse plant and animal life. 

Discover early settler remnants and gain insights into the tribal communities that call Grand Canyon home. This trip is ideal for those looking for a moderately challenging hike with rich historical context.

#3 Hermit Loop Backpacking: Canyon Stories (Apr 23 – Apr 28, Sep 18-23)
Hike along cliffs, soaking in breathtaking views of the Colorado River, and spend nights by the powerful Granite Falls rapid. This program is designed as an introduction to Grand Canyon ecology, biology, geology and human history and the connection between them. 

The Hermit Loop is perfect for experienced hikers who have tackled rim-to-rims or other classic Grand Canyon hikes. 

3 Adventure-Seeking GCCFI Trips

For those ready for a challenge

For those seeking an epic adventure, these trips offer rigorous hiking and the chance to fully immerse yourself in Grand Canyon’s vast landscapes.

1# Nankoweap Canyon Backpacking (October 9-17)

Descend into the Nankoweap basin on the fragments of a trail built by the Powell Survey over a century ago. The Nankoweap basin is a spectacular labyrinth of tributary canyons eroded into unique outcrops of the Precambrian Chuar Group strata. Hidden among the dozens of arroyos and terraces are remarkable geologic exposures and a lush riparian oasis. Explore Nankoweap Creek, the Colorado River and the Butte Fault while examining rocks, plants, critters and archaeology along the way.

#2 Hermit to South Bass Backpacking: Deep Canyon Exploration (March 9-18)

Venture into one of Grand Canyon’s wildest and least-traveled areas on this nine-day backpacking trip. Traverse the western Tonto Trail and explore diverse geological, historical, and ecological features. 

This challenging hike provides ample opportunities for side canyon exploration and relaxation, making it ideal for experienced backpackers.

#3 Tanner to Little Colorado River Backpacking: Deep Canyon Exploration (October 17-23)

The Little Colorado River Confluence is a sacred place to many indigenous communities who call Grand Canyon home, and this trip will explore dynamic stretches of trail along the South Rim and the Colorado River. Accessing the area from the South Rim following the Tanner and Beamer Trails, get ready for dramatic views of the canyon’s layers from Precambrian to Paleozoic Era time periods. 

Water and geology will be key topics discussed during the trip, where we'll dive into Colorado River water rights and the ongoing transformation of Grand Canyon.  

Support Grand Canyon National Park

Gifts to GCC ensure that millions of guests arrive as visitors and leave as park champions, forever inspired by the natural and cultural wonders they've just experienced. Your support will help fund projects including trails and historic building preservation, educational programs for youth and the public, and the protection of wildlife and their natural habitat. 

About GCC

Grand Canyon Conservancy is the official nonprofit partner of Grand Canyon National Park, raising private funds, operating retail shops within the park, and providing premier educational programs about the natural and cultural history of the region. Our donors fund projects including trails and historic building preservation, educational programs for the public, and the protection of wildlife and their natural habitat. We exist to support Grand Canyon National Park in its goal to provide enriching and fulfilling visitor experiences and protecting the park for future generations. 

Conclusion

Each of these trips offers a unique way to experience Grand Canyon, tailored to different levels of hiking experience. From leisurely explorations to thrilling challenges, GCC Field Institute looks forward to sharing these journeys with you in 2026. Stay tuned for more details and start planning your Grand Canyon adventure today!