Fall Colors Hike and Camp: South Rim
Explore iconic viewpoints, hike through golden forests, visit fascinating museums, and connect with the region’s deep human and geological history. With time spent both on the South Rim and in the high-country forests near Flagstaff, this adventure offers a rich, well-rounded look at the season, the land, and the stories that shaped it.
- Dates: October 6–9, 2026
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Trip Length: 4 Days
- Cost: $800
- Group size: 9
Trip Highlights
- Enjoy sweeping canyon views on a scenic hike from Hermits Rest
- Climb the Desert View Watchtower, wander the Palisades, Grandview Lookout Tower, and hike the Arizona Trail
- Delve into early mining and tourism history
- Visit the Museum Collection for an enriching behind-the-scenes look at the canyon’s storied past
- Venture to Flagstaff for a day of cultural immersion and mountain scenery
- Docent-led tour at the Museum of Northern Arizona
- Aspen-lined hike on the San Francisco Peaks
- Stop at the volcanic wonder of Red Mountain
- Peaceful sunrise hike to Shoshone Point
- Guided visit to the historic Kolb Studio
What's included
Price for the class includes:
Our expert instructor.
Daily hikes/learning geology, ecology, and history of the canyon.
Camping at Mather Campground. We can only support tents or vans. No RVs or trailers.
Transportation to various hiking locations during class.
What's not included
You are responsible for:
All of your day hiking and camping equipment (if choosing to stay at Mather Campground)
Food
Transportation to and from the South Rim of Grand Canyon
Guide gratuity (industry recommendation 15-20% of trip cost, read this article to receive more guidance)
Itinerary
Meet your Grand Canyon expert
Marjorie “Slim” Woodruff
PhDMarjorie “Slim” Woodruff was born in Arizona. Growing up in primeval desert, she became comfortable with things that crawl, sting, bite, and gnaw, which served her well when she started working with adolescents. While attending Northern Arizona University, she spent much of her free time exploring Grand Canyon. After graduation she led backpacking trips, taught cross-country skiing, drove a tour bus, and otherwise participated in outdoor education and recreation. Slim considers herself a lifelong learner, and employs her time researching Canyon history, anthropology, geology, and natural history. Her writing has appeared in the Grand Canyon anthology On Foot, and in High Country News Writers on the Range.
Melanie Miles
BEdMelanie Miles, originally a native of England, was a teenager when she first visited the Grand Canyon and immediately fell in love with its landscape, geology, and natural & cultural history. From her home base of Prescott, AZ, she has more than 30 years of experience as a teacher and naturalist. Melanie leads groups throughout the world, teaching natural history, earth science, climbing, environmental education, and backcountry skills.
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.”