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Arizona

Red Rocks & Rafting: Sedona & Grand Canyon With Your Grandchild

Program No. 2520RJ
Alongside your grandchild, find adventure in Sedona’s Red Rocks and the Grand Canyon as you whitewater raft, explore hidden waterfalls and awe-inspiring views!

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Age 9 - 12
ROOMING OPTION PRICING
The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
DATES
Jun 10 - Jun 15, 2025
Per Adult
2,449
Per Child
1,799
Jun 10 - Jun 15, 2025
2,449
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
2,449
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
2,799
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
Jun 24 - Jun 29, 2025
Per Adult
2,449
Per Child
1,799
Jun 24 - Jun 29, 2025
2,449
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
2,449
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
2,799
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
Jul 29 - Aug 3, 2025
Per Adult
2,449
Per Child
1,799
Jul 29 - Aug 3, 2025
2,449
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
2,449
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
2,799
/ Adult
1,799
/ Child
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

The Grand Canyon is so gigantic that if you gathered together every single person on the planet and put them inside it — they would only fill a fraction of it! It’s hard to imagine how big this natural wonder is until you see it with your own eyes. Share a week with your grandchild you'll never forget at the majestic Grand Canyon and amid the spectacular red rock cliffs of Sedona. Experience the Grand Canyon with a trip to the bottom of the canyon on a remote rode on the Hualapai Reservation. Take part in an exciting 37-mile whitewater adventure in motorized rafts on the Colorado River!
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Walking up to one mile on varied terrain. Getting in/out of rafts. Some bumpiness in open-air jeep ride. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Experience the Grand Canyon’s beauty on a walk along the South Rim and a ride to the bottom of the canyon through the Hualapai Reservation.
  • Experience a 37-mile whitewater adventure in the Grand Canyon on a motorized raft.
  • Explore Sedona’s red rock country by jeep to see off-the-beaten-path sights, and get up close to local desert critters during a wildlife presentation!

General Notes

Program is for grandchildren ages 9-12. Children must be 9 years old for rafting.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell
Maggie Mitchell has spent years leading educational excursions throughout the Sedona area. Her passion lies with the study of Arizona's wild creatures, and she loves sharing her love of reptiles and spiders with students of all ages.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell
Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell View biography
Maggie Mitchell has spent years leading educational excursions throughout the Sedona area. Her passion lies with the study of Arizona's wild creatures, and she loves sharing her love of reptiles and spiders with students of all ages.
Profile Image of Kyle Storey
Kyle Storey View biography
Kyle Storey is an urban planner with a passion for creating sustainable and livable communities. He possesses a love for nature and agriculture and is committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. Kyle works towards implementing cutting-edge technologies to reduce our carbon footprint and transition towards a more sustainable future. Kyle is also a seasoned outdoor group leader who is deeply in touch with the natural world. He has led numerous outdoor adventures, from hiking and camping trips to wildlife expeditions and nature exploration.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Sedona/Verde Valley
Program Concludes
Departures
Meals
15 | 5B | 5L | 5D |
Activity Level
The Grand Canyon is so gigantic that if you gathered together every single person on the planet and put them inside it — they would only fill a fraction of it! It’s hard to imagine how big this natural wonder is until you see it with your own eyes. Share a week with your grandchild you'll never forget at the majestic Grand Canyon and amid the spectacular red rock cliffs of Sedona. Experience the Grand Canyon with a trip to the bottom of the canyon on a remote rode on the Hualapai Reservation. Take part in an exciting 37-mile whitewater adventure in motorized rafts on the Colorado River!)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Experience the Grand Canyon’s beauty on a walk along the South Rim and a ride to the bottom of the canyon through the Hualapai Reservation.
  • Experience a 37-mile whitewater adventure in the Grand Canyon on a motorized raft.
  • Explore Sedona’s red rock country by jeep to see off-the-beaten-path sights, and get up close to local desert critters during a wildlife presentation!
General Notes
Program is for grandchildren ages 9-12. Children must be 9 years old for rafting.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Margaret (Maggie) Mitchell
Maggie Mitchell has spent years leading educational excursions throughout the Sedona area. Her passion lies with the study of Arizona's wild creatures, and she loves sharing her love of reptiles and spiders with students of all ages.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Kyle Storey
Kyle Storey
Kyle Storey is an urban planner with a passion for creating sustainable and livable communities. He possesses a love for nature and agriculture and is committed to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. Kyle works towards implementing cutting-edge technologies to reduce our carbon footprint and transition towards a more sustainable future. Kyle is also a seasoned outdoor group leader who is deeply in touch with the natural world. He has led numerous outdoor adventures, from hiking and camping trips to wildlife expeditions and nature exploration.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Walking up to one mile on varied terrain. Getting in/out of rafts. Some bumpiness in open-air jeep ride. Elevations up to 7,000 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (11 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
15 meals | 5B | 5L | 5D |
2 expert-led lectures
6 expert-led field trips
1 flight during the program
2 hands-on experiences
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Expand All
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration 4:30 p.m. After you have your room assignment, come to the Road Scholar table in the conference room by the pool to register with the program staff and get your welcome packet containing the up-to-date schedule that reflects any changes, other important information, and to confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please ask for your packet when you check in.
Dinner:
At the Hotel.
Evening:
Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Transportation will be provided primarily by passenger vans, unless otherwise noted. This is a Road Scholar intergenerational program. Grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren. If/when separate age group activities are conducted concurrently, program staff will supervise. Children are never to be left unsupervised. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the full day ahead.
Activity Note
Climbing in/out of 4x4 vehicles; assistance available as needed. Driving approx. 15 miles roundtrip; about 2 hours, with stops; some bumpy sections of the ride. Walking about 1 mile throughout the day; some rocky, sandy or uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In the hotel meeting room, our Group Leader will teach us about the geography of this region and what makes Sedona and the Grand Canyon such special places in Arizona. Then let the fun begin! We’ll get picked up at the hotel in 4x4 vehicles by drivers who are also well-versed in the geology, flora, fauna and pre-historic details of the region, then head off on our open-air 4x4 adventure to an off-the-beaten-path location in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona. Expect some sections of road where there may be jostling in the vehicle as the driver navigates dirt roads, sandy washes, and/or slick rock. Vehicles are very comfortable, seat up to 7 people, and have grab bars to hold on to with every seat. There will be some short walks away from the jeeps as we visit viewpoints, historic attractions, or archaeological sights. We’ll then return to the hotel.
Lunch:
At the hotel.
Afternoon:
Depart for Montezuma Castle. This 5-story, 20-room cliff dwelling is nestled in a limestone recess high above the flood plain of Beaver Creek in the Verde Valley. It is one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in North America, constructed approximately 600 years ago by the Sinagua Indians. While here, we will observe the site from below and take note of Wet Beaver Creek’s unique ecosystem as we walk along the paved loop trail.
Dinner:
Plated meal from restaurant adjacent to hotel.
Evening:
At the hotel, we’ll enjoy a program led by an educator focused on desert critters such as spiders, live snakes, and scorpions. We’ll have the opportunity to see, touch and have our pictures taken with our desert friends and learn about the ways they adapt and thrive in this harsh environment.
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; some paved, unpaved, sandy and rocky trails to creek-side location for swimming. Creek bottom uneven with a mix of slippery rocks, pebbles and sand. Be sure to bring swimwear and shoes you can wear in the water – no flip flops. Driving approximately 5 miles one way to Red Rock Crossing; about 1/2 hour with a scenic stop.
Breakfast:
At hotel.
Morning:
In the morning, we’ll hit the trail for our nature hike to Oak Creek. At Red Rock Crossing we’ll have the chance to wade or swim in the water with Cathedral Rock as a backdrop. Participants who choose not to walk/hike at the pace of the children will be able to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of this world famous scene.
Lunch:
At the Hotel.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, we’ll learn about the region's layer cake geology and how to "read the rocks" as we all participate in building a 3-D model of the Grand Canyon. This presentation will be led by the educators and naturalists from the Willow Bend Environmental Education Center in Flagstaff and it will be a learning exercise that will help prepare us for our visit to one of the greatest geologic wonders of the world – the Grand Canyon. Late in the afternoon we’ll have some time independently to begin packing for tomorrow's transfer, resting or swim time in the pool.
Dinner:
At Hotel.
Evening:
In the evening we will be joined by a local expert for a presentation on a topic of local interest.
Activity Note
Driving approx. 250 miles throughout the day to Grand Canyon National Park's South Rim and Peach Springs; about 5 hours total, with stops. Walking approx. 1 mile along Canyon rim; about 1 hour; roughly 7,000 foot elevation; mostly paved trail with gradual up and down. Elective hike of about 1 mile roundtrip; less than 1 hour; rocky, uneven trail; up to 150 foot elevation change.
Breakfast:
At Hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of the inn, we’ll travel to Grand Canyon National Park. En route, we’ll learn from our Group Leader about famous Oak Creek Canyon as we travel Highway 89A, one of Arizona's most scenic highways up the hairpin switchbacks in view of the San Francisco Peaks to the Grand Canyon's South Rim. Once at Grand Canyon National Park, we’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Canyon with glimpses of the Colorado River below and the North Rim across the Canyon. Our Group Leader naturalist will point out significant canyon features and introduce us to the canyon's story focusing on natural and human history as well as geology. There will be time for a walk along the rim and, for those who desire, a short hike into the canyon on the famed Bright Angel Trail.
Lunch:
On the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, we’ll have sack lunches.
Afternoon:
Next, we’ll visit historic Grand Canyon Village and enjoy some time for independent exploration. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Don't forget to ask the Group Leader about the fountain in the Bright Angel Lodge where you can get ice cream! In late afternoon, we’ll set out from the South Rim for transfer along part of Old Route 66 to Peach Springs on the Hualapai Indian Reservation.
Dinner:
At the lodge restaurant. Alcoholic beverages on the reservation are prohibited by law.
Evening:
We’ll then gather with our Group Leaders in the hotel meeting room for an orientation on the next day's rafting adventure on the Colorado River.
Activity Note
Drive approx. 135 miles total. Morning about 20 miles, 1.5 hours; unpaved, rough road. Afternoon approx. 115 miles, 2.5 hours, with stop. Rafting approx. 37 miles; 5-6 hours total. Climbing in/out of rafts, assistance provided as needed. River temperature about 50 degrees F – air can be 100+ degrees F. Hiking about 1 mile total for the day; some slick rocks, sand. Elective climb using ropes & ladders to hidden waterfall. Getting in/out of helicopter; some steep steps; flight is about 6 minutes.
Breakfast:
In the lodge restaurant.
Morning:
We’ll meet our transportation at the hotel and travel to our drop-in point on the Colorado River at the bottom of spectacular Diamond Creek Road. Upon arrival at our destination, we will go through a safety orientation with our river leaders and get fitted with life jackets before embarking on our river rafting trip. We will divide up into multiple groups to fit on 8- to 10-passenger motorized pontoon rafts (approximately 25 feet long), each with a certified rafting expert. The river trip down the Colorado River is about 37 miles in length. During the first 16 miles we will encounter about 10 whitewater rapids, some rather large (5, 6 and 7’s on a 1 to 10 scale), so we will get wet. The air temperature in summer at the bottom of the canyon will likely be around 100 degrees so the splashing is a welcome relief and will keep us cool. We’ll pull our rafts to see a couple of attractions en route including the beautiful and hidden Travertine Grotto where we’ll have an opportunity to climb up on a series of rope ladders on the rocks and splash in the flowing waterfall. This is for the adventurous. All stops are optional depending on comfort and ability. After 16 miles the rapids disappear, but the scenery remains "grand" in all regards. Hualapai tribal members will operate rafts and, along with our staff, provide information about the canyon along the way.
Lunch:
Along the river, we’ll have sack lunches provided by the river company.
Afternoon:
Continuing downriver, we’ll reach Quartermaster Landing where we will get off our rafts and climb up to the landing pad in order to board the helicopter that will fly us out of the canyon on a quick but spectacular ride. Have your cameras ready! The helicopter will drop us off at Quartermaster Point where we will board our transportation and transfer back to the lodge in Peach Springs. On our way we’ll travel through a landscape of Joshua Trees and creosote bush as we cross the beautiful basin and range landscape of the Mohave Desert. Note: Helicopters cannot fly in excessively hot and/or windy conditions for safety reasons. Although this happens very infrequently, it remains a possibility. In that event, the raft trip will be extended to a location where ground transportation can reach the group.
Dinner:
At the lodge restaurant.
Evening:
We’ll then gather for a program wrap-up to share some of our favorite memories from our program together with new Road Scholar friends. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.
Activity Note
Inn check-out and departure by 8:00 a.m. Driving approximately 145 miles back to Sedona; about 3.5 hours. Arrival in Sedona expected by approx. 11:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the lodge restaurant.
Morning:
Once checked out of the lodge, we’ll load our vehicles and transfer back to the starting hotel in Sedona.
Lunch:
Upon arrival in Sedona, sack lunches will be provided for those who would like one. This concludes our program.
Afternoon:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
15 Meals
5 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Jul 29, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025
  • Jul 29, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025
  • Jun 10, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025 (Sedona/Verde Valley to Departures)
  • Jun 24, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025 (Sedona/Verde Valley to Departures)
  • Jul 29, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025 (Sedona/Verde Valley to Departures)
3 nights
Location: Sedona
Element Sedona is the top-rated Sedona Marriott on Trip Advisor so you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. The Element Sedona is centrally located in the Village of Oak Creek near hiking and biking trails as well as local restaurants. With breathtaking views of the red rocks, the Village of Oak Creek is located 7 ½ miles from uptown Sedona. Sedona is simply magical and has been called "The Most Beautiful Place in America”.
2 nights
Location: Peach Springs
Tribal artwork displayed; some traditional Hualapai cuisine served in restaurant.
3 nights
Location: Sedona
Element Sedona is the top-rated Sedona Marriott on Trip Advisor so you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. The Element Sedona is centrally located in the Village of Oak Creek near hiking and biking trails as well as local restaurants. With breathtaking views of the red rocks, the Village of Oak Creek is located 7 ½ miles from uptown Sedona. Sedona is simply magical and has been called "The Most Beautiful Place in America”.
2 nights
Location: Peach Springs
Tribal artwork displayed; some traditional Hualapai cuisine served in restaurant.
3 nights
Location: Sedona
Element Sedona is the top-rated Sedona Marriott on Trip Advisor so you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. The Element Sedona is centrally located in the Village of Oak Creek near hiking and biking trails as well as local restaurants. With breathtaking views of the red rocks, the Village of Oak Creek is located 7 ½ miles from uptown Sedona. Sedona is simply magical and has been called "The Most Beautiful Place in America”.
2 nights
Location: Peach Springs
Tribal artwork displayed; some traditional Hualapai cuisine served in restaurant.
Participant Reviews
4.89
Based on 9 Reviews
Sort By:
Robert – Class of 2019 | Victoria, MN
This program for grandparents and grandchildren is a great experience for people who enjoy doing challenging and adventurous outdoor activites in a unique and beautiful part of the United States.
— Review left July 8, 2024
Ruth | Hampshire, IL
This program was a fun "bucket list" experience for grandma, made extra special by sharing it with my granddaughter. Thanks Road Scholar!
— Review left June 29, 2024
Cindy – Class of 2023 | Chicago, IL
A wonderful, educational trip exploring Sedona & the Grand Canyon
— Review left June 27, 2023
Su – Class of 2018 | Windham, NH
What a great way to make memories with our grandchild !!
— Review left June 24, 2023
Walter – Class of 2023 | Hockessin, DE
Overall, this was a wonderful trip for the kids. They were kept interested for most of the time. The adults in our group mingled well with each other and the kids were a very cohesive group, although the boys could get a bit rowdy. I have one suggestion. If you have major issues with your lower back, think very carefully before taking the raft ride. It isn't fun when you are worrying every moment that you'll displace something. Plus there will be so much mud splashing on your face and body so that you and your clothes will need major cleaning. For the more adventurous however, it's quite a ride.
— Review left August 9, 2022
Lisbeth – Class of 2022 | Greensboro, NC
I got to spend a 1 on 1 week with my 10 year old grandson. It was a great bonding experience for us both!
— Review left June 26, 2022
Nancy – Class of 2022 | Ambler, PA
The Grand Canyon trip with my grandson was a memory we will carry with us, I would rate the overall experience as superb!
— Review left June 21, 2022
Richard – Class of 2017 | Okemos, MI
This is an excellent program filled with beautiful sights and great adventures for both Grandparents and Grandkids.
— Review left July 2, 2019
Sara – Class of 2018 | Waldorf, MD
The Red Rocks & Rafting program to Sedona and the Grand Canyon is a wonderful experience to share with your grandchild. My granddaughter loved the adventure of playing in a beautiful swimming hole, riding a raft through the Grand Canyon and going up in a helicopter. And so did I. These memories will be something we share forever.
— Review left July 1, 2019





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