Clear Creek is a spring-fed stream that wends its way through desert foliage and ancient rock strata en route to the Colorado River at the canyon’s floor. This creek, robust by canyon standards, sustains an amazing array of plants and animals, much as it did a prehistoric civilization whose weathered dwellings can still be seen.

After a brief orientation and pack check, participants will descend the seven-mile South Kaibab Trail for an initial night beside picturesque Bright Angel Creek. The next several days will include a hike to and from Clear Creek Canyon on the expansive Tonto Platform, and a layover day at the creek itself. Weather and group hiking strength permitting, the class will trek upstream to Cheyava Falls—a towering intermittent waterfall fed by snowmelt. A final night at Bright Angel Campground near historic Phantom Ranch will precede a return to the rim via the 10-mile Bright Angel Trail.

A plethora of topics and tales are certain to leave participants with a heightened understanding and appreciation of the flora, fauna and geology of the canyon, as well as the hardy individuals (from Puebloans to pioneers) that have called Grand Canyon home.