Introductory Backpack

June 4 - 7
Instructor: GCFI Staff
Hike Level: 3
Fee: $510.00 GCA Member; $535.00 non member

A Grand Canyon hike from rim to river spans millions of years in geologic time, and takes one from a high-altitude forest to desert lowlands in very short order. Along the way there is much to intrigue the curious traveler. Big views, ancient fossils, amazing plants, archaeological sites and pioneer-vintage structures are all in plain view, and provide a plethora of topics for your expert instructor to address. Our introductory backpack begins with a thorough orientation, pack check and afternoon stroll along the scenic South Rim. The following day includes a 4.5-mile descent of the Bright Angel Trail to the towering cottonwood trees of Indian Garden Campground—home for a two-night camping adventure. A sunset visit to nearby Plateau Point with its command view of the Inner Gorge will cap the group’s inaugural day below the rim. The following day will feature a backpack-free day hike to the sandy beaches of the Colorado River for a glimpse at the forces that carved this marvel of a canyon. Depending on group hiking strength and weather, an optional visit to historic Phantom Ranch (several miles upriver), may also be an option. The final day of class includes a return to the South Rim on the Bright Angel Trail, each at his or her own pace, and a proud look back at the canyon that doubled as classroom and playground for three splendid days.

Itinerary
Day 1 Introductions and orientation
Day 2 Descend Bright Angel Trail to Indian Garden Campground. Sunset at Plateau Point.
Day 3 Exploratory dayhiking to Colorado River and Phantom Ranch
Day 4 Hike to rim and wrap up session

Wilderness First Responder

June 8 - 17
Instructor: Wilderness Medicine Institute Staff
Hike Level: 1
Fee: $670.00 GCA Member; $695.00 non member

Whether you are a backcountry trip leader or merely a frequenter of the outdoors, the ability to react quickly and effectively in a crisis situation may prove to be a matter of life or death. Class participants who satisfactorily complete this 80-hour training will receive a Wilderness First Responder certification which is the industry standard for commercial outdoor leaders and guides.

Taught by expert instructors from the Wilderness Medicine Institute (a program of the National Outdoor Leadership School), the curriculum includes standards for urban and wilderness care situations, and emphasizes decision making and injury prevention. Some of the topics covered include CPR, dehydration and heat-related injuries, shock, spine and head trauma, musculoskeletal injuries, wound management, environmental emergencies and common expedition problems.
Most of the instruction takes place in a classroom setting or in nearby wooded areas. A practical exam will be conducted in a remote area of the park during a simulated rescue operation. Free group camping throughout the class is provided for all participants, and free Wi-Fi is available at various locations in the immediate area.

Note
Special accommodations have been arranged for participants including complimentary camping at Mather Campground.
Park Entrance Fee is waived.
Wi-Fi available in Grand Canyon Village.
General Store, Post Office, Restaurants, Bank and Showers may be found in Grand Canyon Village.

Wilderness First Responder Recertification

June 19 - 21
Instructor: Wilderness Medicine Institute Staff
Hike Level: 1
Fee: $330.00 GCA Member; $335.00 non member

Taught by expert instructors from the Wilderness Medicine Institute (a program of the National Outdoor Leadership School), this class teaches participants the standards for urban and wilderness care situations, and emphasizes decision making and injury prevention. Some of the topics covered include CPR, dehydration and heat-related injuries, shock, spine and head trauma, musculoskeletal injuries, wound management, environmental emergencies and common expedition problems.

Most of the instruction takes place in a classroom setting or in nearby wooded areas. A practical exam will be conducted in a remote area of the park during a simulated rescue operation. Free group camping throughout the event is provided for all participants, and free Wi-Fi is available at various locations in the immediate area.

Note: This three-day skills-based class is for individuals who are current Wilderness First Responders with a valid certification through WMI, SOLO, NOLS, WMA or WPT. Those with expired certifications are required to take the full 80-hour Wilderness First Responder in order to recertify.

Special accommodations have been arranged for participants including complimentary camping at Mather Campground.
Park Entrance Fee is waived.
Wi-Fi available in Grand Canyon Village.
General Store, Post Office, Restaurants, Bank and Showers may be found in Grand Canyon Village.