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Trail of Time
Free Events & Programs

Geology Exposed: A Walk through Time

Once you know what you're looking at, Grand Canyon makes a whole new kind of sense. Join a naturalist for a 30 minute guided walk along the Trail of Time and discover the geological history written in the canyon's walls.

  • Dates: October 14, 2026
  • Difficulty: Wheelchair Accessible
  • Trip Length: 30 Minutes
  • Cost: Free
  • Group size: 14
  • Location: Verkamp's Visitor Center

Walk Through Deep Time

The Grand Canyon didn't happen overnight, and once you know what you're looking at, every layer tells a story. Geology Exposed is 30 minute guided walk along the Grand Canyon's Trail of Time, led by a naturalist who brings the canyon's ancient geological history to life. From billion-year-old rocks to the forces that carved one of the world's most iconic landscapes, this walk transforms a stunning view into something you can truly read. Come ready to walk, look closely, and leave the canyon making a lot more sense.

Trip Highlights: 

  • Walk through nearly 2 billion years of Earth’s history on the iconic Trail of Time at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.
  • Discover how ancient oceans, shifting continents, and the carving power of the Colorado River shaped one of the world’s most recognizable landscapes.
  • Learn to “read” the canyon with a naturalist guide who turns layered rock formations into a story written across the cliffs.
View of front entrance to Verkamps Visitor Center and Curios Store at Grand Canyon National Park.

View of front entrance to Verkamp's Visitor Center at Grand Canyon National Park

Itinerary

Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Verkamp's Visitor Center and walk the Trail of Time. 

This offering is first-come, first-served. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the tour begins to secure your spot. 

Contact gccfi@grandcanyon.org for questions, information about private tours or additional dates and times.

Click here to view more guided tours of Grand Canyon.

Family of 5 standing and smiling for photo on rock edge at Grand Canyon

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!”

Group of hikers standing and smiling in front of canyon from ground level at Grand Canyon

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.”

Five hikers standing on forest cliff edge overlooking Grand Canyon 2017

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!”