The fascinating stretch of canyon accessed by the historic Grandview, Tonto, and South Kaibab trails has drawn humankind for thousands of years. Evidence of their collective habitation, exploits, and wanderings is in ready supply. From the ancestral Puebloans to19th-century pioneers, much was left behind to intrigue both layman and scientist alike. The geology in this area is no less fascinating. In particular the fault lines, mineral deposits, water sources, and erosional features that played a distinct role in attracting and sustaining past cultures, explorers, and entrepreneurs. This class is the latest in a series to mine canyon history where archaeology and geology intersect. During this high-intensity backpack, participants will camp amidst the lush oases of Cottonwood, Grapevine and Cremation Canyons respectively. Each base camp will set the group up for an intriguing day hike or two. With non-stop sweeping views as a backdrop, the discovery and examination of artifacts—from pottery to pick axes—will give participants a whole new understanding of this amazing landscape, and those that once called it home.