Of the numerous indigenous populations that have been drawn to the Grand Canyon, only the Havasupai people continue to thrive beneath the lofty rims of the grandest of canyons. Like the largely rim-dwelling Hualapai people nearby, the Havasupai’s centuries-old connection to the Grand Canyon is a fascinating story. Against a backdrop of towering waterfalls and lush vegetation, participants will not only learn about the culture of our Havasupai hosts, but of the geologic and ecological history of the Grand Canyon itself.

The class will begin with an eight-mile backpack to the inner-canyon village of Supai. After a brief visit, participants will continue several miles down the trail to the campground at the base of picturesque Havasu Falls. From this base camp, subsequent days will be spent hiking, swimming and sharing the beauty of this storied locale. Participants will learn about the history and ways of their host tribe and study the numerous plants, birds and other animals found in this amazingly diverse riparian drainage. The final day will include a retracing of steps back to the South Rim for closing discussions and departure. Note: fee-based horse-packing service is available from the tribe for those wishing to have their gear carried in or out of the canyon. Information about this service will be included with pre-course materials.