Havasupai Point, with its commanding view up- and downcanyon, is one of the South Rim’s most dramatic scenic overlooks. This class will begin with a visit to this unforgettable vantage from which participants will look down upon the terrain they will be exploring during subsequent days. To the east lies the classic rugged topography of buttes and temples that rise from the Tonto Platform bench; to the west the distinctive two-step topography dominated by the Esplanade Platform, deeply-incised by a hidden inner canyon.

Why the difference from east to west? Why such an abrupt and dramatic change in Grand Canyon topography and scenery? The class will discuss possible explanations for these geologic mysteries during this one-of-a-kind learning adventure. After camping for the night at the nearby South Bass trailhead, participants will descend the historic South Bass Trail from rim to river. The Upper Granite Gorge, Bass Fault Zone and the Darwin Plateau are but a few of the interpretive points of interest that will illustrate the forces of nature that have created the grandest of canyons. Participants will carpool to and from the South Bass Trail and Grand Canyon Village on rough but reliable dirt roads.