The rugged and remote western corner of the developed South Rim boasts a treasure trove of destinations that speak of the canyon’s origins, intricate ecosystems, and human habitation.

This class will visit a number of these sites as participants traverse a large expanse of the canyon’s Tonto Platform on this high-intensity hike. This trek spans more than forty miles through the central canyon from the Boucher Trail to the Colorado River, past the “Jewels”—a series of challenging tributary canyons—and out the historic Bass Trail. Participants explore the role geology and elevation play in biological adaptation and ecosystem development. Few South Rim backpacks on established trails are more demanding or lend themselves as readily to the array of topics and ever-changing scenery.