May 11 - May 17, 2025
Arizona
Grand Canyon National Park: Exploring the North and South Rims
Program No. 2804RJ
Experience Sedona’s red rocks and get a unique perspective of the Grand Canyon as you explore both the North and South Rims, and fly above the Colorado River for a bird’s-eye view!
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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & PRICES
May 18 - May 24, 2025
Jun 1 - Jun 7, 2025
Aug 24 - Aug 30, 2025
Sep 7 - Sep 13, 2025
Sep 21 - Sep 27, 2025
DATES & PRICES
May 11 - May 17, 2025
May 18 - May 24, 2025
Jun 1 - Jun 7, 2025
Aug 24 - Aug 30, 2025
Sep 7 - Sep 13, 2025
Sep 21 - Sep 27, 2025
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
7 days
6 nights
16 meals
6B 5L 5D
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Flagstaff, AZ
2
Montezuma Castle National Monument, Sedona
Flagstaff, AZ
3
Flagstaff, Grand Canyon South Rim
South Rim, Grand Canyon, Arizona
4
Scenic Grand Canyon Over Flight, Free Time
South Rim, Grand Canyon, Arizona
5
Desert View, Navajo Bridge, Arrive North Rim
North Rim, Grand Canyon
6
North Rim Exploration.
Marble Canyon, AZ
7
Program Concludes
Departures
At a Glance
Carved from millions of years of erosion, the Grand Canyon has countless layers of history just waiting to be discovered. Explore the hidden treasures inside this national park from ancient fossils to the Marble Canyon, all alongside the local experts who know them best. Witness a part of the United States that has been preserved for millennia on excursions to both the North and South Rims, and gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous people who first inhabited this land. On a journey through this epic national park and Sedona’s stunning landscapes, learn the story of the region’s geological beginning while standing in awe of this sea of sandstone.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles daily on varied terrain. On South Rim, quarter-mile walk between lodging and dining. Elevations of 7,000-8,000 feet
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Experience the incredible opportunity to fly over both rims aboard a fixed-wing aircraft, if you choose.
- Discover one-of-a-kind vistas as you explore the jewels of Sedona as well as the Grand Canyon’s North and South Rims.
- Venture into Marble Canyon and the Vermilion Cliffs—two of the Grand Canyon’s lesser-known gems—and walk across the historic Navajo Bridge spanning 600 feet across the Colorado River.
General Notes
Grand Canyon overflight at added cost.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Amy Calhoun
Amy Calhoun has been writing poetry, short stories and human interest pieces for local publications for nearly 35 years. She is an artist working with furniture and mixed media, pulling from her inspiration -- the great Southwest. Amy enjoys the outdoors as much as anything else she. She has spent time studying archeology and anthropology and enjoys working relationships and friendships with members of many Arizona tribes. She has raised three children and has two young granddaughters.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Amy Calhoun
View biography
Amy Calhoun has been writing poetry, short stories and human interest pieces for local publications for nearly 35 years. She is an artist working with furniture and mixed media, pulling from her inspiration -- the great Southwest. Amy enjoys the outdoors as much as anything else she. She has spent time studying archeology and anthropology and enjoys working relationships and friendships with members of many Arizona tribes. She has raised three children and has two young granddaughters.
Suggested Reading List
(9 books)
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.
Grand Canyon National Park: Exploring the North and South Rims
Program Number: 2804
I Am the Grand Canyon: The Story of the Havasupai People
I Am the Grand Canyon is the story of the Havasupai people. From their origins among the first group of Indians to arrive in North America some 20,000 years ago to their epic struggle to regain traditional lands taken from them in the nineteenth century, the Havasupai have a long and colorful history. The story of this tiny tribe once confined to a toosmall reservation depicts a people with deep cultural ties to the land, both on their former reservation below the rim of the Grand Canyon and on the surrounding plateaus.
In the spring of 1971, the federal government proposed incorporating still more Havasupai land into Grand Canyon National Park. At hearings that spring, Havasupai Tribal Chairman Lee Marshall rose to speak. "I heard all you people talking about the Grand Canyon," he said. "Well, you're looking at it. I am the Grand Canyon!" Marshall made it clear that Havasu Canyon and the surrounding plateau were critical to the survival of his people; his speech laid the foundation for the return of thousands of acres of Havasupai land in 1975.
I Am the Grand Canyon is the story of a heroic people who refused to back down when facing overwhelming odds. They won, and today the Havasupai way of life quietly continues in the Grand Canyon and on the surrounding plateaus.
An Introduction to Grand Canyon Prehistory
People have inhabited Grand Canyon for the past twelve thousand years. Evidence of their lives exists throughout the canyon; but it is up to their ancestors and archaeologists to interpret those remains for us. This book provides a popular look at the architecture, art, and tools of prehistoric Puebloan peoples, as well as information about modern-day Native American tribes. With illustrations and color photographs.
The Man Who Walked Through Time: The Story of the First Trip Afoot Through the Grand Canyon
The remarkable classic of nature writing by the first man ever to have walked the entire length of the Grand Canyon. 256pp
Carving Grand Canyon: Evidence, Theories, and Mystery
Ranney explains how rivers in general can physically carve canyons, looks chronologically at the numerous theories that have been presented by successive generations of geologists regarding the Grand Canyon's formation, and describes a plausible sequence of geologic events that could create such a landscape. Numerous color photographs, detailed illustrations, and maps are provided. Annotation ©2005 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR 160pp; 2nd edition 2012.
Down the Great Unknown: John Wesley Powell's 1869 Journey of Discovery and Tragedy Through the Grand Canyon
On May 24, 1869 a one-armed Civil War veteran, John Wesley Powell and a ragtag band of nine mountain men embarked on the last great quest in the American West. The Grand Canyon, not explored before, was as mysterious as Atlantis—and as perilous. The ten men set out from Green River Station, Wyoming Territory down the Colorado in four wooden rowboats. Ninety-nine days later, six half-starved wretches came ashore near Callville, Arizona.
Lewis and Clark opened the West in 1803, six decades later Powell and his scruffy band aimed to resolve the West’s last mystery. A brilliant narrative, a thrilling journey, a cast of memorable heroes—all these mark Down the Great Unknown, the true story of the last epic adventure on American soil.
The Emerald Mile: The Epic Story of the Fastest Ride in History Through the Heart of the Grand Canyon
In the spring of 1983, massive flooding along the length of the Colorado River confronted a team of engineers at the Glen Canyon Dam with an unprecedented emergency that may have resulted in the most catastrophic dam failure in history. In the midst of this crisis, the decision to launch a small wooden dory named “The Emerald Mile” at the head of the Grand Canyon, just fifteen miles downstream from the Glen Canyon Dam, seemed not just odd, but downright suicidal.
The Emerald Mile, at one time slated to be destroyed, was rescued and brought back to life by Kenton Grua, the man at the oars, who intended to use this flood as a kind of hydraulic sling-shot. The goal was to nail the all-time record for the fastest boat ever propelled—by oar, by motor, or by the grace of God himself—down the entire length of the Colorado River from Lee’s Ferry to Lake Mead. Did he survive? Just barely. Now, this remarkable, epic feat unfolds here, in The Emerald Mile.
Introduction to Grand Canyon Geology
This overview of Grand Canyon geology is perfect for the first-time visitor or the seasoned Grand Canyon traveler. Chapters cover the basic priciples of geology, the history of geological exploration at Grand Canyon, the canyon's structural features, and the Colorado River. Includes over 70 photos and illustrations, an index, and glossary. 63pp
Living at the Edge: Explorers, Exploiters, and Settlers of the Grand Canyon Region
A comprehensive look at the pioneer history of the Grand Canyon Region, from its earliest residents to the creation of the national park at the end of the pioneer era (circa 1920). Included are close to two hundred historic photographs, many never published before, and 12 custom maps of the region. 184pp
Breaking Into the Current: Boatwomen of the Grand Canyon
This book profiles eleven of the first full-season Grand Canyon boatwomen, weaving together their various experiences in their own words. Breaking Into the Current is a story of romance between women and a place. Each woman tells a part of every Canyon boatwoman's story: when Marilyn Sayre talks about leaving the Canyon, when Ellen Tibbets speaks of crew camaraderie, or when Martha Clark recalls the thrill of white water, each tells how all were involved in the same romance. All the boatwomen have stories to tell of how they first came to the Canyon and why they stayed. As river guides in love with the Canyon and their work, these women have followed their hearts. 178pp
Program
At a Glance
Duration
7 days
Program Begins
Flagstaff, AZ
Program Concludes
Departures
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
16
| 6B |
5L |
5D |
Activity Level
Carved from millions of years of erosion, the Grand Canyon has countless layers of history just waiting to be discovered. Explore the hidden treasures inside this national park from ancient fossils to the Marble Canyon, all alongside the local experts who know them best. Witness a part of the United States that has been preserved for millennia on excursions to both the North and South Rims, and gain a deeper understanding of the indigenous people who first inhabited this land. On a journey through this epic national park and Sedona’s stunning landscapes, learn the story of the region’s geological beginning while standing in awe of this sea of sandstone.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Experience the incredible opportunity to fly over both rims aboard a fixed-wing aircraft, if you choose.
- Discover one-of-a-kind vistas as you explore the jewels of Sedona as well as the Grand Canyon’s North and South Rims.
- Venture into Marble Canyon and the Vermilion Cliffs—two of the Grand Canyon’s lesser-known gems—and walk across the historic Navajo Bridge spanning 600 feet across the Colorado River.
General Notes
Grand Canyon overflight at added cost.
Featured Expert
Amy Calhoun
Amy Calhoun has been writing poetry, short stories and human interest pieces for local publications for nearly 35 years. She is an artist working with furniture and mixed media, pulling from her inspiration -- the great Southwest. Amy enjoys the outdoors as much as anything else she. She has spent time studying archeology and anthropology and enjoys working relationships and friendships with members of many Arizona tribes. She has raised three children and has two young granddaughters.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles daily on varied terrain. On South Rim, quarter-mile walk between lodging and dining. Elevations of 7,000-8,000 feet
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(9 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
7 days
6 nights
What's Included
16 meals | 6B | 5L | 5D |
1 expert-led lecture
9 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
6 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-in, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Flagstaff, AZ
Meals:
D
Stay:
La Quinta Inn & Suites Flagstaff
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 5:00 p.m. After you have your room assignment, come to the Road Scholar table in the hotel meeting room 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. Orientation: 5:30 p.m. 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. All field trips will be led by our Group Leader, a seasoned and experienced naturalist, unless specified otherwise. All transportation will be via motorcoach unless otherwise noted. Periods in the 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 be changed due to local conditions/circumstances. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel, we will enjoy a buffet featuring salad, entrées, and sides, plus coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase from the hotel lounge.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
2
Montezuma Castle National Monument, Sedona
Location:
Flagstaff, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
La Quinta Inn & Suites Flagstaff
Activity Note
Driving approximately 130 miles total; about 3 hours. Walking approximately 1/2 to 1 mile total throughout the day; paved paths and trails with uneven footing.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After departing our hotel, we will drive south from Flagstaff to the Verde Valley and the Sedona area. As we travel, we’ll marvel at the change in life zones and scenery as we descend several thousand feet below the edge of the Colorado Plateau. Upon arrival at Montezuma Castle National Monument, we will set out for a field trip to explore the 5-story, 20-room prehistoric cliff dwelling 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 over 900 years ago by the Sinagua culture. After our guided field trip and some time to explore the exhibits in the Visitor Center, we’ll load up and continue to the Village of Oak Creek for lunch.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant amongst the beautiful red rock scenery of the Sedona area.
Afternoon:
Setting out again after lunch, we will explore some favorite spots in the Sedona area, including a stop at the beautiful Bell Rock viewpoint, with commentary provided by our knowledgeable Group Leaders. We’ll then return to our hotel in Flagstaff in the afternoon by way of scenic Oak Creek Canyon.
Dinner:
At local Flagstaff restaurant.
Evening:
After dinner, our Group Leader will brief us on the next day’s itinerary, weather conditions, and departure time. We’ll then return to the hotel. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
3
Flagstaff, Grand Canyon South Rim
Location:
South Rim, Grand Canyon, Arizona
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
Driving approximately 86 miles from Flagstaff to Grand Canyon National Park; about 1.5 hours, with one possible stop. Walking about 1 mile total throughout the day; along the rim on paved paths.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we’ll make our way to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park via scenic Highway 180, traveling through the San Francisco Volcanic Field and Arizona’s highest point, Humphreys Peak, which reaches an elevation of 12,633 feet. As we drive, our Group Leaders will introduce us to the geography and natural history of Northern Arizona. We will arrive at Grand Canyon National Park by mid-morning and travel to various viewpoints, including Mather Point and/or Yavapai Point, all while learning about the canyon through introductory commentary.
Lunch:
In the field on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, we will have a sack lunch enjoyed picnic-style.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will head to the Grand Canyon Village Historic District, where either our Group Leader or a guest speaker will conduct a lively history walk along the rim of the canyon focusing on the development of the national park, from the arrival of the railroad to modern day park management issues. We’ll spend any additional time to take in the grandeur and immensity of this natural wonder. We’ll then check into our hotel in the late afternoon with time to freshen up and relax before dinner.
Dinner:
At the lodge dining facility.
Evening:
At leisure. Those who wish to participate may opt for an engaging elective program led by National Park Service Rangers. Programs will cover a Grand Canyon topic of interest and changes nightly. Please note that this activity is dependent on National Park Service scheduling and may not always be available.
Day
4
Scenic Grand Canyon Over Flight, Free Time
Location:
South Rim, Grand Canyon, Arizona
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Yavapai Lodge West
Activity Note
For participants that registered for the Grand Canyon Overflight: Driving approximately 16 miles roundtrip; about 1/2 hour. Getting on/off small plane; the scenic flight aboard the “Vistaliner” lasts about 45 minutes. The aircraft can comfortably carry 19 passengers. For those not going on the flight: Mostly free day; minimal walking throughout the day during group activities; opportunities for more dependent on personal interest.
Breakfast:
At the Yavapai Lodge dining facility.
Morning:
For participants who signed up for the scenic canyon flight when registering for the program, we will transport to the Grand Canyon Airport to board the dual engine “Vistaliner” aircraft and set off for an aerial tour of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The many hued spires, buttes and temples and the Colorado River will be spread out below you in dramatic fashion. The flight will make a broad loop that will include a swing over the heavily forested North Rim, a preview of our visit later in the week. For those who chose not to participate in the scenic flight, enjoy a day of Free Time to explore the South Rim at your leisure. 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 Leaders will also be happy to offer advice and suggestions. A discussion and handout on free time activities will be included, with directions to many of Grand Canyon Village’s famous landmarks. Grand Canyon Village is home to the Kolb Brothers Photography Studio and many buildings designed by Fred Harvey architect Mary Jane Colter, including the Bright Angel Lodge, Lookout Studio, and the Hopi House. To the east is the El Tovar Hotel, one of the great historic lodges in the National Park system.
Lunch:
In the field on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Sack lunches will be distributed to the group in the morning to be enjoyed at the time and place of your choosing.
Afternoon:
Free Time on your own to see and do what interests you most. You may wish to visit the historic Grand Canyon Village, use the Hermit Road shuttle to see the many spectacular viewpoints west of the Village, see Yavapai Point and explore the Geology Museum, or go on rim walks, all popular activities.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. There are a number of dining venues to choose from in the park. If you are interested in dining at the El Tovar Hotel, note that advance reservations are required for both lunch and dinner. These reservations are best made as far in advance as possible (up to one month before). Call 928-638-2631 and ask for the El Tovar dining room, or visit https://www.grandcanyonlodges.com/dine/el-tovar-dining-room-and-lounge/.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
Desert View, Navajo Bridge, Arrive North Rim
Location:
North Rim, Grand Canyon
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Grand Canyon Lodge North Rim
Activity Note
Driving approximately 220 miles from Grand Canyon Village to North Rim; about 5 hours drive time, with stops. Walking approximately 1 mile total throughout the day; about 1.5 hours on our feet; mostly paved surfaces.
Breakfast:
Breakfast at the Lodge dining hall.
Morning:
After breakfast, we will check out of the hotel and begin an epic day filled with surreal landscapes and otherworldly views en route to the North Rim as we ride along the Grand Canyon’s “East Rim.” Our first stop will be the Desert View overlook, the location of the famous Watchtower designed by Fred Harvey architect Mary Colter, affording some of the best views of the Colorado River available anywhere along the South Rim. We will have time to explore the Watchtower with our Group Leaders available to answer any questions. Known for her many works for the Fred Harvey Company and the Santa Fe Railroad, Mary Coulter was a female architect in the early 20th century who helped blend Spanish Colonial and Mission Revival architecture with Native American motifs. The Watchtower is an interpretation of a prehistoric “tower kiva”, featuring beautiful murals on its interior walls painted by Hopi artist Fred Kabotie. After we exit the park, we will enter the western edge of the Navajo Nation and travel through the Painted Desert as we ride north to Marble Canyon and Navajo Bridge, where will cross the Colorado River.
Lunch:
At the Marble Canyon Lodge at the base of the towering Vermilion Cliffs, we will have a make-your-own sandwich bar with a choice of meats, cheeses, condiments, and salad, plus iced tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we’ll visit the Navajo Bridge and Interpretive Visitor Center. The original Navajo Bridge was completed in 1929 to allow for reliable crossing of the Colorado River. With the construction of the new bridge in 1994, the Navajo Bridge opened for pedestrian use and was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. During our stop, participants will be able to take a thrilling stroll across the pedestrian bridge and marvel at the Marble Canyon chasm which contains Colorado River 500 feet below. While strolling, keep an eye out for California Condors - frequent visitors to the Navajo Bridge and residents of the region. Continuing along the base of the Vermilion Cliffs, we’ll rise onto the cool, verdant Kaibab Plateau with its spruce, fir and aspen forest. Mid-afternoon we will check-in to our cabins and settle in before dinner. Note that the Frontier Cabins on the North Rim are historic log cabins built in the 1930s. They enhance the rustic ambiance of the North Rim. Please be aware that the cabins are much smaller and cozier than modern day lodgings.
Dinner:
In the dining room of the North Rim Lodge, we will have a 3-course plated meal featuring a choice of entrée, plus a non-alcoholic beverage; other beverages available for purchase. As we dine, we’ll enjoy magnificent canyon views through huge picture windows.
Evening:
After dinner, the remainder of the evening will be at your leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
6
North Rim Exploration.
Location:
Marble Canyon, AZ
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Marble Canyon Lodge
Activity Note
Driving approximately 120 miles total throughout the day; about 4 hours, with stops. Walking approximately 1 - 2 miles depending on activities participated in on the North Rim. Walks are on paved and unpaved, rolling trails with about 100 feet of elevation change.
Breakfast:
Breakfast at the North Rim Lodge.
Morning:
After checking out of the lodge, we will begin our journey to the North Rim viewpoints. The first stop will be Grand Canyon's Point Imperial, the highest point on the north rim at 8,803 feet. Point Imperial overlooks the Painted Desert and the eastern end of Grand Canyon. We will then go to the most expansive viewpoint of the North Rim, Cape Royal, where what surrounds you is a feast for the eyes almost too much to comprehend.
Lunch:
In the field, we will have boxed lunches including a deli-style sandwich, chips, fresh fruit, and a cookie or granola bar.
Afternoon:
Following our exploration of the Grand Canyon viewpoints, in mid afternoon, we depart the park and drop back down to the high desert, arriving at Marble Canyon Lodge for the evening.
Dinner:
At the lodge, we will a variety of entrée choices with sides, plus coffee, tea and water.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Program Concludes
Location:
Departures
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out and driving 127 miles (2 hours) to Flagstaff, AZ
Breakfast:
Buffet-style breakfast in the lodge dining room.
Morning:
After checkout, we will drive through the Painted Desert on our return to Flagstaff, AZ.
Please select a day to update the map
Map details are not available for this location.
MEALS
16 Meals
6 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025
- May 11, 2025 - May 17, 2025 (Flagstaff, AZ to Departures)
- May 18, 2025 - May 24, 2025 (Flagstaff, AZ to Departures)
- Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025 (Flagstaff, AZ to Departures)
- Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025 (Flagstaff, AZ to Departures)
- Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025 (Flagstaff, AZ to Departures)
- Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025 (Flagstaff, AZ to Departures)
Participant Reviews
Based on 33 Reviews
Sort By:
Thanks again, Chris and Tom, for a great week and a special thanks for your patience in helping me find my phone and being late for the bus to Page for dinner.
— Review left October 12, 2024
Thank you, Road Scholar. I will be on future Road Scholar tours.
— Review left October 10, 2024
Our program made the trip a series of “one-stop-shop” type adventure in that each phase gave us everything we needed, fresh air, sunshine, camaraderie, exercise and some of the most spectacular scenery on earth.
Our leaders were somewhat like coaches, bringing average people slightly ahead of their comfort zones, and the entire experience offered a perfect mix of activities and new places and things to see.
It far exceeded my expectations, and I had way more fun than I had ever imagined beforehand .
— Review left September 23, 2024
There's really nothing like the Grand Canyon and you owe it to yourself yo experience both the North and South Rims. Road Scholar is the way to go. All the details are carefully thought out - all you have to do is enjoy the experience .
— Review left September 23, 2024
A perfect, beautiful and fun adventure to the Grand Canyon!
We were warmly welcomed by Mike and Joel and they made a point for everyone to get to know each other right off the bat. Both Joel and Mike were excellent, knowledgeable, personable and fun guides.
Many thanks to all our other travelers too. The group was a perfect mix of interesting, unique personalities from across the U.S.
This was our first Road Scholar trip but it definitely won't be ourt last.
— Review left September 18, 2024
Step out of your comfort zone
— Review left June 10, 2024
This is a great program to learn about the Southwest and particularly about Sedona and the Grand Canyon. The visit to the North Rim was a real treat.
— Review left June 9, 2024
To see Grand Canyon was a dream for my husband and me. In taking this trip, we not only saw the canyon, but learned so much about geology, indigenous people, flora, fauna and more. Thank you, Stewart and Amy.
— Review left May 28, 2024
The trip itself was great. Well organized. Our lodging and meals were good. We got to see quite a lot of the Grand Canyon and Sedona. I would have been happy to miss the time at Montezuma Castle National Monument. Lectures were often long and delivered while we stood by the trail. Lectures were also given while driving in the van with the driver searched for materials and demonstrated principles while driving. I refused to ride when distracted driving occurred. Imagine if 13 people were in an accident, killed or maimed. I refused to take the risk to be one of them. Stops for scenic views would have been appreciated. I recommend the trip, but strongly feel that safety of travelers needs to be addressed.
— Review left May 26, 2024
My husband is losing his sight and though we have traveled the world, we have not traveled since 2019. When we travel again it will be with Road Scholar. They are thorough and kind
— Review left September 26, 2023
We had a wonderful time at the Grand Canyon North and South Rim tour. It helped us get out of the post pandemic rut. We look forward to going to the Galapagos Island with them.
— Review left September 15, 2023
I highly recommend Road Scholar programs. Engaging and Spectacular. Extremely organized and brilliantly curated.
— Review left June 6, 2023
Fantastic program with awesome leaders. Well worth the trip, I'd go again.
— Review left June 5, 2023
We enjoyed a wonderful adventure with our guides Stewart and Joel. If I remember half of the information they shared then I will have learned a lot! I particularly enjoyed Joel's point of view on climate change, and Stewart's knowledge of the local flora and fauna.
The hotels and food were all very good. The over flight of the Canyon really puts the size of the Canyon in perspective. Highly recommend this optional part of the trip.
We were not able to get to the North Rim so I think I would have liked to stay at the South Rim one more night. An early morning Hike along the top of the Rim, and then onto Lee's Ferry and Kanab in the afternoon.
All in all a great experience. I will be booking another trip with Road Scholar!
— Review left June 2, 2023
This was one of the best experiences of my life. I learned things I would have never known had I not done this program with Road Scholar!
— Review left May 29, 2023
Awe-inspiring visit to geologic wonder!
— Review left May 29, 2023
I totally enjoyed seeing the Grand Canyon, it was, in a way, a spiritual experience for me. I cannot get the views out of my head. Pictures only go so far.
The Guides were so helpful, and the other participants added to the magic of this experience.
— Review left May 29, 2023
The Grand Canyon is the most beautiful park I've been in, and hope to return again sometime!
— Review left May 22, 2023
This was my FIRST Road Scholar trip and it exceeded my expectations! We enjoyed full active days without feeling wiped out. Lodgings were clean and comfortable at every stop. Food was good (and plentiful). I was a little concerned if "Keep the Pace" was right for me--but I had no trouble keeping up with the physical demands. The website descriptions are accurate--so use those to decide if this trip is right for you. On our trip, anyone who wanted to slow down, skip or modify an activity was given the option to do so. Now I'm hooked--already planning my second Road Scholar trip in the fall!
— Review left May 21, 2023
Experiencing the majesty & grandeur of the Grand Canyon and surrounding areas
— Review left October 6, 2022
An amazing and wonderful program. Made my first trip to the Grand Canyon exceed all my expectations. Am inspired to go an another southwest national park program with Rod Scholar.
— Review left October 3, 2022
This is a fabulous program - a great way to tour with others eager to see and experience the wonders of Sedona and the Grand Canyon while learning from the highly knowledgeable, approachable and friendly instructors. An overall great trip.
— Review left October 2, 2022
Seeing the Grand Canyon for the first time is a majestic experience that requires some time to comprehend the enormity of space and time that formed the canyon. Road Scholar has provided the experts--Geologist, Naturalist, Master Falconer, and Photographer, all giving their perspectives on this stunning geology. Without this expertise, I would have been looking at fantastic things but not understanding them.
— Review left September 30, 2022
If your experience with the Grand Canyon and the surrounding region is limited to pictures or video documentaries then this program is for you. You will come away with new insights into the geological landscape as well an introduction to the persons who have explored and preserved it. A rare opportunity!
— Review left September 29, 2022
This was a very active program, we walked, rode through incredible scenery in Arizona, and learned a great deal. The leaders were very friendly and I enjoyed learning about the areas we visited. The altitude on the north rim (8000 ft.) challenged me a bit, but I was able to pace myself and keep up with the group. Highly recommend this trip.
— Review left May 27, 2022
I highly recommend this trip for anyone who has a desire to see the Grand Canyon. The itinerary is wonderful because it includes both rims and the best look-out places for each. It is a great way for older people to experience as much of the Grand Canyon as possible without requiring too much activity level. The food is good, the accommodations are just what you'd want for this kind of trip and the leaders are A+ in every way.
— Review left May 25, 2022
The Road Scholar Grand Canyon and surrounding locations tour was a very educational and rewarding opportunity. A trip of a lifetime very fun and eye opening. I highly recommend it.
— Review left May 21, 2022
Far exceeded my expectations. Terrific guide and driver. Well-organized. Learned a lot of geology and natural resource topics. Thanks, Bruce and Ray.
— Review left September 30, 2019
an excellent trip, with time to see both the North and South Rims and everything in between. Well planned with appropriate spots for breaks and meals. Wonderful overflight of the canyon. adaptable for those who want to walk more or less. Especially nice to stay in the log cabins on the North Rim and eat in the spectacular lodge for four meals. Quite a few picnic lunches- great to be able to see everything. Terrific information about geology, flora and fauna, Native Americans, and history.
— Review left June 28, 2019
Fabulous trip. NAU led trips are the best. Bruce Banker was great and I learned many new things. The entire trip was a joy and I loved it all!
— Review left June 7, 2019
Some of the sections of the website did not work. Initially the participant contact information and discussion area were available and then were no longer available.
— Review left June 1, 2019
you can not compare the north rim to the south rim they are both unique in there own way
— Review left May 20, 2019
This trip to both the South and North Rims of the Grand Canyon was the perfect introduction. It confirmed my desire to explore more of the Southwest with Road Scholar - can't wait for my next trip!!!
— Review left May 20, 2019
