Unlocking Plant Secrets
From iconic cacti to desert wildflowers, Grand Canyon's plant life is full of surprises. Stop by Unlocking Plant Secrets — a drop-in outdoor program where a naturalist is on hand to reveal the hidden lives of the canyon's remarkable plants.
- Dates:
June 21st-25th (Daily)
June 28th- 30th (Daily)
July - Tuesdays through Saturdays
- Difficulty: Easy
- Trip Length: 1 hour
- Cost: Free
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Location:
Verkamp's Visitor Center
Discover the Canyon’s Plant Life
From iconic cacti to desert wildflowers, Grand Canyon's plant life is full of surprises. Stop by Unlocking Plant Secrets — a drop-in outdoor program where a naturalist is on hand with props, specimens, and activities that reveal the hidden lives of Grand Canyon's remarkable plants. Each day explores something different — from resilient shrubs to desert trees and wildflowers — uncovering the clever ways plants survive, adapt, and thrive in one of the world's most dramatic landscapes. Come curious, leave knowing the canyon's plant life is full of surprises.
Trip Highlights
- Discover the hidden survival secrets of Grand Canyon plants, from towering cacti to delicate desert wildflowers
- Explore hands-on specimens, props, and interactive activities with a knowledgeable naturalist
- Learn how canyon plants adapt to extreme heat, scarce water, and rugged desert conditions
- See a different side of Grand Canyon beyond the viewpoints through the fascinating world of desert ecology
- Encounter colorful wildflowers, resilient shrubs, and uniquely adapted desert trees up close
- Perfect for curious explorers, nature lovers, photographers, and families looking for a deeper canyon experience
- Drop in anytime for surprising discoveries and fun facts about the plants that shape the canyon landscape
- Leave with a new appreciation for the beauty, resilience, and diversity of Grand Canyon’s plant life
Itinerary
Meet your guide at Verkamp's Visitor Center to learn about the canyon's diverse plants. Drop in and out freely anytime from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m.
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.
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.”