The Grand Canyon has been luring humankind for the past 12,000 years as a place for shelter, nourishment and renewal. As part of its ongoing efforts to study the early inhabitants of the Grand Canyon, the National Park Service has surveyed approximately 5% of the park to date, and has already catalogued thousands of historic and prehistoric sites.

During this moderate-intensity backpack to Shinumo Creek, participants will learn and employ the latest archaeological surveying methods under the guidance of park archaeologists. Besides learning how to seek, identify and record archaeological artifacts, participants will learn about the lifestyles and history of indigenous cultures that have called Grand Canyon home. This class will rendezvous at Jacobs Lake, Arizona, and utilize the rugged North Bass Trail to access the area of study. Participants provide their own food and backpacking/camping gear. Previous experience with field-based surveying is a prerequisite. Please inquire to see if you qualify.