Canyon Views Winter 2025/26 Vol.32 No.2

CANYON

VIEWS A PUBLICATION OF GRAND CANYON CONSERVANCY

VOL.32, NO.2 WINTER CANYON VIEWS 2025/26

Canyon Views is published by Grand Canyon Conservancy (GCC).

As the official philanthropic and collaborative partner of Grand Canyon National Park, GCC’s mission is to inspire generations of park champions to cherish and support the natural and cultural wonder of Grand Canyon.

For more information about Grand Canyon Conservancy, please visit grandcanyon.org.

2026 Board of Directors: Randall Brown, Chair—Dallas, TX Scott Key, Vice Chair—San Francisco, CA Stan Sutherland, Secretary—Flagstaff, AZ Rich Rudow, Treasurer—Mesa, AZ Samantha Phillips Beers—Philadelphia, PA David Cermak—Denver, CO Geoff Chatas—Ann Arbor, MI Aaron Craft—Cave Creek, AZ Ann Figueredo—Blue Bell, PA Deb Gage—Dallas, TX Charlie Galbraith—Washington, D.C. Pamela Kerr—Tucson, AZ Carissa Rollins—Minneapolis, MN Mick Rusing—Tucson, AZ Stephanie Sklar—Tucson, AZ Jessica Turner—Baltimore, MD Kevin Washburn—Flagstaff, AZ Chief Executive Officer: Elizabeth Silkes Chief Philanthropy Officer: Bonnie Baker Chief Communications Officer: Mindy Riesenberg Canyon Views Managing Editor: Andrea Osorio Graphic Design: Lori J. Hale, Beryl Creative Printing: Prisma Copyright © 2026 Grand Canyon Conservancy

Grand Canyon Conservancy P.O. Box 399 Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 EIN #86-0179548 (800) 858-2808 grandcanyon.org

Cover photo credit: NPS/M. Quinn

Powell Point Sunset. Photo credit: NPS/M.Quinn.

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In This Issue

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Letter from the CEO

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Reflecting on North Rim Memories

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Q+A with St. Philip’s School and Community Center

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The Gift of Membership

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Meet Blue: The Conservation K-9 at Grand Canyon

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GCC Member Spotlight: Matt Miller

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GCC Residency Program: Filling the Gaps in Visitor Experiences During the Government Shutdown

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Ways to Give: Thank a Ranger

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Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute

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Shop Grand Canyon Conservancy

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From the CEO Dear Friends, This year has tested the strength and spirit of Grand Canyon National Park and reminded us all why your support matters. From the devastating Dragon Bravo Fire to ongoing federal administrative cuts and now, as I write this, the longest government shutdown in history, our park and its people have faced challenge after challenge. Yet through it all, Grand Canyon Conservancy has stood firm because of you.

When the shutdown began, we knew that our community at the South Rim would feel the strain immediately. Many of our park partners and neighbors faced financial uncertainty and isolation. So GCC stepped in to help, organizing community meals, recreation activities, and gatherings to keep spirits strong and connections alive. Together, we are working to ensure that those who call the canyon home can stay rooted here, even in the hardest times.

Your generosity has made this possible.

Thanks to you, GCC has funded essential science and resource management projects that would otherwise have stalled; provided direct support to the Flagstaff Family Food

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Center and the Grand Canyon Pantry; and donated warm clothing through the Canyon Closet. These actions have real impact. They sustain not only vital conservation work, but the people who care for this park every day.

Now more than ever, we see the power of partnership. Keeping Grand Canyon open, thriving, and protected takes more than short-term fixes—it takes steady commitment, collaboration, and long-term vision. That is what GCC stands for, and it’s what your support fuels.

In this issue of Canyon Views, you’ll read about how your generosity is helping restore and recover the North Rim after the Dragon Bravo Fire; how our Disaster Recovery Fund provided immediate aid for post-fire assessments as well as longer-term monitoring; how our Astronomer and Artist in Residence programs have continued to inspire visitors even during the shutdown; and how innovative new initiatives like the K-9 Conservation Program are safeguarding the canyon’s future in creative ways.

Photo credit: Lauren Cisneros

Through it all, one truth shines brighter than ever: Grand Canyon endures because people like you care.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Thank you for standing with us, for believing in this place, and for helping us protect Grand Canyon National Park— its landscapes, its stories, and its people— for generations to come.

Elizabeth Silkes CEO Grand Canyon Conservancy

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04 In July 2025, the Dragon Bravo Fire swept through the North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, significantly altering the landscape and displacing many who care for this one-of-a-kind place.

Reflecting on North Rim Memories The North Rim holds cherished memories for so many residents and visitors over the years. Whether it has been a beacon of hope during a Rim-to-Rim adventure, a home to hardworking NPS staff, or a sanctuary of respite in a busy world, this is a special place. In August, GCC asked our community to share their favorite memories of the North Rim. We received dozens of submissions from people looking to reflect on what this landscape means to them and in doing so, shining a light towards the future of the North Rim.

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A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed and shared their wonderful memories on our website.

Photo credit: NP

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“I love the Grand Canyon with all my heart, and while the devastation suffered by the North Rim breaks my heart, I know that, as long as the Canyon endures, that the North Rim will endure as well, and will eventually heal and continue to mean many things to many more people in the future. Because there is nothing quite like standing at the edge of the canyon and hearing a California Condor fly over you so close that you can hear the wind whispering in its wings, or watching a Zone-tailed Hawk make lazy circles in the canyon below you, and draw you in with its power and beauty with the wish that you could be one of them. Just as the Brighty statue, which I loved to touch and pet as a kid, emerged from the ashes, perhaps a little broken, so will the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. It may be broken now, but will be made stronger and more resilient in the future.”

— Charity Hagen

Sunrise at the North Rim. Photo credit: NPS

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dit: NPS

“The North Rim was our summer home for five seasons. It meant so much to us. It was the first park [my partner] Dave and I ever worked in together, and the only one we returned to again and again, because we loved it.

Most seasonal employees move on after one season. We didn’t.

I’m so thankful for those five seasons, and for my North Rim friends. We don’t know exactly what the future holds, but the North Rim will be rebuilt. And when it is, it will continue to inspire, heal and welcome others, just as it did for us. I hope that day comes soon.

Processing this fire feels like grieving the loss of a loved one. I miss our summer home so much.”

— Lauren Cisneros, GCC employee

We rented cabins on site and drove down with my sister, her husband and my 18 month old niece. I come from a family of divorce & have always struggled with my relationship with my dad, especially after many years of having to “share” my dad with other spouses and step siblings, I had mourned our relationship.

Our North Rim trip was a short but extremely impactful experience for me as I was able to spend several evenings with just my dad, sitting in the iconic Adirondack chairs, overlooking the breathtaking purple and pink-hued canyon walls. The photo attached is one of my favorites of my dad and I and I coincidentally just found it recently, and it made me take a moment and experience the gratitude that I feel about having the opportunity to experience the North Rim & those few hours of one on one time with my dad.”

— Brooke Stringham

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Photo credit: NPS

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“As an Arizona Native, I never fully appreciated the Grand Canyon until I moved away.

I was living in Utah for my college and early adulthood years and one summer, my sister and I planned a trip to meet our dad ( who lives in Phoenix) at the North Rim.

“When I worked the service station, every evening the sun would begin to set and like clockwork, guests would rise to snap photos—often hilariously blocking the servers as we tried to do our jobs. This past season, a little ringtailed cat made a rare appearance up in the rafters. Guests loved that quirky little visitor. Out on the veranda, you could sit in the sun sipping a cocktail— maybe one I made—while watching thunderstorms roll in over the canyon rim.

Orchestras would play. Fires crackled in the giant stone fireplace. Telescopes lined the rim for stargazing. There were soulful conversations, wild kids darting around, and so much laughter.

Gratitude was everywhere—especially from the guests. We loved sharing our stories, explaining the meaning behind the viewpoint names, the artwork on the poles, or the intricate patterns of the rugs in the lodge. And we always got a good laugh from some of the questions: ‘Where’s the canyon?’

‘When do you light it up?’

I can’t express how special—and emotional—it’s been to realize that my summers up there have come to an end.

Our little family has scattered, but the bond we built is something rare. My only hope now is that someday, I’ll be able to return on opening day, stand in that beautiful sunroom, and say with full heart, ‘welcome back to the North Rim Lodge.’”

— Kristie Gaydos

Photo credit: NPS

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LOOKING AHEAD TO THE FUTURE In response to the Dragon Bravo fire, people from all over the world donated to relief and recovery efforts through GCC’s Disaster Response Fund. Thanks to this outpouring of generosity, GCC was able to swiftly deploy funding to support immediate relief efforts.

Take a closer look at what we’ve been able to accomplish, together:

Emergency Relief GCC funded immediate relief efforts during the fire, including supporting displaced North Rim residents through partnerships with the United Way of Northern Arizona, local food banks, clothing banks, and other essential service providers.

Post-fire Water Quality and Flood Risk GCC is funding water quality analysis, runoff modeling, and the installation of water gauges above Phantom Ranch. The project is designed to detect potential contaminants and build an early warning system for flood risks following the fire.

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Cultural Assessments and Reporting GCC funding enables a park fire archaeologist to complete assessments of cultural and archaeological sites affected by the blaze. The resulting reports will be shared with the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office and the park’s tribal partners to guide future preservation and stabilization efforts.

The full extent of the damage is still unfolding.

We know the road ahead will be long, and we anticipate significant restoration needs at the North Rim. When that call comes, we will be ready thanks to the unwavering support of the GCC community.

Support North Rim recovery efforts:

Photo credit: NPS

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10 Q+A with St. Philip’s School and Community Center Meet St. Philip’s School and Community Center, a vibrant community of students and teachers located in Dallas, Texas. For over 30 years, the school has led an annual academic excursion to Grand Canyon as an extension of their mission to educate the mind, body, and spirit of its scholars.

Photo credit: St. Phillips School

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In 2024, thanks to the generosity of donors like you, the GCC Field Institute led an educational field trip to Desert View Watchtower where St. Philip’s scholars were able to experience the canyon from a new vantage point. GCC recently sat down for a Q&A with Kaitlyn Holmes, St. Philip’s School Communications Manager, as she expanded upon the impact of this partnership. “GCC’s continued financial support and ever-growing educational programming help bridge the gap between what a student can learn and what they live, inspiring our scholars to see themselves as part of something greater and to carry a sense of wonder and responsibility into all they do.”

Q: What inspired St. Philip’s to start the tradition of visiting Grand Canyon, and what goals does the school hope to achieve through this annual trip?

A: St. Philip’s School and Community Center began its annual academic excursion to Grand Canyon over three decades ago as an extension of our mission to educate the mind, body, and spirit of our scholars.

We want our students to stand in awe of God’s creation, to witness lessons of history and perseverance that no textbook could fully capture. The canyon, with all

Photo credit: St. Phillips School

its majesty, serves as both a classroom and a chapel, teaching our students about geology, geography, and the greatness of our Creator. Each year, this experience deepens their appreciation for the resilience of Indigenous cultures, the beauty of nature, and the strength found in community. As a predominately Black, faith-based private school, we are intentional about our scholars learning their place in the world, building self-esteem, and having encounters that position them to become global-minded leaders.

More than anything, it reminds our youth that the world is vast, that they belong in it, and that great things lie ahead. Through this journey, we aim to expand the students’ courage, curiosity, and gratitude, ensuring every child and chaperone returns home with memories and lessons that will guide them for a lifetime.

“We got the chance to hike down and back up the canyon. It was kind of hard, but it was good conditioning for our bodies. We also had work to do, making reflections on our time at the Grand Canyon. How we felt about it and what we saw, it was all pretty good. We learned survival skills, too. We made good memories spending time in the hotels. Our caring chaperones made sure we had everything we needed. I would go again if I could!”

— Jordan Pitre, 8th grade student

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Photo credit: St. Phillips School

Q: How does the Grand Canyon experience impact your students, both academically and personally?

A: For many of our scholars, the Grand Canyon represents their first encounter with a National Park, and for some, their first time venturing beyond the state of Texas. The experience is both humbling and transformative. Standing at the edge of that vast wonder reminds them how small we are in the grand design, yet how significant we can be when we walk in purpose.

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Academically, the trip merges in-class instruction with real-world experiences.

Students connect lessons in science, history, and geography with what they see and feel before them. They observe rock formations, indigenous architecture, desert plants and animals for the first time. Each student presents an assigned subject, teaching their classmates about wildlife, landforms, historical trailblazers, the importance of National Parks, the Railway, Kolb Studio, Montezuma Castle, Route 66 and more!

Personally, they uncover their resilience, pushing through challenging hikes, adapting to unfamiliar environments, and learning the power of teamwork. It’s a journey that opens minds and expands hearts.

Q: Are there any moments that stand out as particularly memorable on recent trips?

A: One of our most memorable moments from the 2024 trip took place outside the Hopi House on the South Rim. On a pebbled platform overlooking the canyon, our scholars split into teams to reenact the processes of erosion, weathering, and deposition that shaped the very landscape before them. Using their own bodies and backpacks as props, they became the forces of nature: wind, rain, and time itself. Laughter echoed across the rim as tourists gathered to watch, eventually joining in and crowning the winning group! Their display of understanding how the earth has changed over time is one that cannot be replicated in a

classroom setting. There are new heights in learning achieved when students can see and touch the lesson, and this was a joyful and affirming scene.

Your gift supports Educational Programming Initiatives.

“GCC’s continued financial support and ever-growing educational programming help bridge the gap between what a student can learn and what they live, inspiring our scholars to see themselves as part of something greater and to carry a sense of wonder and responsibility into all they do.”

— Kaitlyn Holmes, St. Philip’s School Communications Manager View of the upper Bright Angel Trail from Hermit Road on the South Rim of Grand Canyon.

Photo credit: NPS/M.Quinn

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Give the Gift That Gives Back All Year When you gift a membership to Grand Canyon Conservancy, you’re not just sharing the magic of Grand Canyon— you’re helping to preserve it for future generations.

Winter storm moving across the North Rim of Grand Canyon with snow falling within Bright Angel Canyon. Photo credit: NPS/M.Quinn

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Your gift supports vital work inside Grand Canyon National Park, including: •

Trail and historic building restoration

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Wildlife and habitat protection

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Educational programs for youth and visitors

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Preservation of Indigenous history and culture

Members receive exclusive benefits including: •

An official Member card

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Discounts in GCC stores and over 400 Public Lands Alliance partner stores nationwide

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Invitations to special members-only events and experiences

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A subscription to the biannual Canyon Views magazine

Whether it’s for a friend or a family member, giving the gift of membership is a meaningful way to celebrate, explore, and protect Grand Canyon.

Give a GCC Membership this holiday and help protect, preserve, and enhance this iconic landscape.

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Grand Canyon Conservancy’s annual Celebration of Art raises funds for a dedicated art venue at Grand Canyon National Park. Here, artist Monica Esposito-Mann works on a plein air piece at the South Rim at the 2025 event. Photo credit: John Segesta

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18 Meet Blue: Grand Canyon’s Trailblazing Conservation K-9!

Wildlife sightings at Grand Canyon National Park are unforgettable—but when elk and bighorn sheep wander too close to people, things can turn dangerous fast.

Elk have grown increasingly bold, foraging right outside hotels, strolling along walking paths, and even lingering near the K–12 school. With staff responding to roughly 150 wildlife interaction calls each year, it became clear that traditional hazing—clapping, shouting, air horns—just wasn’t enough anymore.

The park needed a fresh, innovative solution.

And that’s where Blue came in!

Photo credit: NPS

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SAY HELLO TO BLUE— GRAND CANYON’S NEW WILDLIFE-SAVVY K-9 HERO Thanks to the generous support of Grand Canyon Conservancy members, the park proudly welcomed Blue, a bright, eager, and energetic Catahoula Leopard Dog, in January 2025. She’s the star of the brand-new Conservation K-9 Program, created to gently and humanely guide elk and bighorn sheep out of busy areas where people gather.

Her presence taps into wildlife’s natural instincts, helping them move back to safer, more natural habitats. And visitors will soon be able to watch this remarkable dog in action!

Blue’s training has been nothing short of extraordinary. She sailed through Phase 1 at Wind River Canine Partners and then impressed instructors during shepherding training at a local sheep ranch in Williams, Arizona. This fall, she’s leveling up even further in Montana with the same expert trainer who prepared Glacier National Park’s renowned conservation K-9, Gracie.

“Blue is everything we look for in a Catahoula Leopard Dog and a Wildlife Conservation K-9—confident, tenacious, and loves to work. If you see her around the park, feel free to stop and say hello—it’s great for her training!”

— Ally Marshall of Wind River Kennels

Photo credit: NPS

Blue is on track to complete her training in spring 2026— so keep your eyes open on your next visit.

You might see her at work as early as April!

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HOW BLUE IS MAKING THE PARK SAFER FOR EVERYONE Helping Wildlife Stay Wild With nearly 5 million annual visitors and 2,500 year-round residents, the South Rim is bustling—and elk and bighorn sheep have become frequent guests in these busy spaces. But close encounters can quickly turn hazardous for both humans and wildlife.

To address this, the park will designate “exclusion zones” where wildlife simply shouldn’t linger—areas near schools, housing, visitor hubs, and other high-traffic places. Blue and her handler will help guide animals out of these zones using techniques that rely on natural predator cues, not fear or aggression.

This modern, humane approach encourages wild animals to return to areas where they can behave naturally and avoid harmful habituation.

Advancing Wildlife Research in an Exciting New Way Beyond improving safety, Blue is helping expand scientific understanding of wildlife behavior in national parks.

In spring 2026, the park’s wildlife biologist will begin a new research project by placing GPS collars on elk and bighorn sheep. These tracking data will be compared to earlier collar studies conducted between 2018 and 2020 to better understand changes in movement patterns before and after introducing the K-9 program. The project will also draw on 16 years of wildlife interaction records stored in the park’s Wildlife Call-out Database.

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In addition, wildlife staff will document each Aversive Conditioning Treatment (ACT)— including species, herd size, animal behavior, distance moved, and how long wildlife stay away.

After three years, researchers will compile their findings into a comprehensive report evaluating the success of this conservation method.

HELP SUPPORT BLUE AND THE CONSERVATION K-9 PROGRAM AT GRAND CANYON This transformative program is made possible by supporters who believe in protecting the park’s wildlife and ensuring safe experiences for all who visit. Your contributions help: Support Blue’s specialized training Provide tracking collars for elk and bighorn sheep Purchase an ATV to help Blue’s team reach remote areas Photo credit: NPS

BLUE’S ROLE IN INSPIRING AND EDUCATING VISITORS Blue will also serve as a dynamic ambassador for public education. Because she’ll be working in busy visitor areas, guests will have the exciting opportunity to watch her in action and learn firsthand about safe wildlife viewing, preventive stewardship, and why keeping distance from animals is so important.

Ensure Blue receives year-round veterinary care

Help advance wildlife conservation at Grand Canyon National Park, learn more or make a gift at: grandcanyon.org/ protect-grand-canyon/projects/ conservation-k-9-program

The park’s Public Affairs and Interpretation teams are hard at work developing the program’s public outreach components—including online resources, social media updates, and special interpretive programs that highlight this groundbreaking conservation effort.

Blue isn’t just protecting wildlife—she’s helping inspire the next generation of park stewards.

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Member Spotlight: Matt Miller

Matt Miller (left) and Matt Berna on the GCC-led Intrepid Travel trip in October 2025. Photo Credit: Kristen Hall

MATT’S JOURNEY OF GRIT, GRATITUDE, AND GIVING BACK For Matt Miller, Grand Canyon isn’t just a destination— it’s a life-shaping force. His connection to the canyon began at age 12 on a fly-fishing trip with his father at Lee’s Ferry.

“We camped under the stars on a sandbar,” Matt recalls. “It was a full moon, and the canyon walls were completely lit up. We fished past midnight—it was just me and my dad until 2 a.m. The Grand Canyon spoke to me that night, and I’ve been obsessed with spending time inside of it ever since.”

That night sparked a lifelong relationship with the canyon, one that now fuels both Matt’s personal passions and his philanthropic mission. As a member of Grand Canyon Conservancy’s Planned Giving Advisory Council, Matt supports vital efforts to protect this extraordinary place for future generations.

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Giving Financial Wisdom Deeper Meaning Matt spends his days working closely with financial advisors and clients across the southwest. His role on GCC’s Planned Giving Advisory Council allows him to blend his professional expertise with his love for the outdoors.

“It was the perfect opportunity to combine two things I love—supporting advisors and supporting the canyon,” says Matt. “When you learn how little federal funding the canyon receives, you realize how crucial it is to step up.

The council helps spread the word and connect people who want to make a real difference.”

Running the Canyon and Spreading the Word

Finding ‘Grititude’ in the Canyon

Matt is also a dedicated trail runner who regularly completes Rim-to-Rim-to-Rim treks through the canyon. It’s in those miles, surrounded by cliffs and silence, that he finds renewal—and opportunities to share GCC’s mission.

“I talk to a lot of runners and a lot of financial advisors,” he explains. “When I talk about my love for the canyon, it’s not a hard sell— it’s part of my life story. For many, it becomes a meaningful resource for their charitably inclined clients.”

Looking Ahead: A South Rim Trek with GCC Matt’s next adventure? An Intrepid Travel guided hiking tour of the South Rim, led by GCC’s Canyon Concierge, Sherri O’Neil.

“I’m looking forward to getting away from the noise and back to our creator. There’s nothing like the canyon for stripping life down to what really matters. You walk out feeling restored, part of something bigger. Experiencing that with new friends? That’s what life’s all about,” he says.

Matt’s personal journey is one of resilience— both physical and emotional. After a difficult period, it was trail running in the canyon that helped him reclaim his sense of self.

“Running may have saved my life.

Each hard-fought mile gave me confidence back. That’s where I found what I call ‘grititude’—gratitude mixed with grit.

When you’re grateful, it’s easier to be gritty.

You have something worth fighting for,” Matt shares.

For him, the canyon is not only a sanctuary but also a symbol of strength. Giving back to protect its trails, visitor experiences, and wildlife is more than philanthropy— it’s personal.

“To help protect the very place that helped bring me back to life— there’s no greater honor.

The canyon is home.”

Support the Long-Term Protection of the Canyon Through Planned Giving Ensure the canyon’s future by including GCC in your will, trust, or estate plans. Learn more at: www.grandcanyon.org/protect-grand-canyon/planned-giving

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24 Residency Program GCC RESIDENCY PROGRAM: FILLING THE GAPS IN VISITOR EXPERIENCES DURING THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN On October 1st 2025, the wheels ground to a halt at national parks across the country. The government shutdown meant that many NPS employees at Grand Canyon became furloughed, with travelers becoming increasingly uncertain about visiting the park.

Visual artist and Astronomer-in-Residence, Laura-May Abron painting on the rim, 2025.

Photo Credit: John Segesta

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Despite the lapse in funding, Grand Canyon National Park remained open, with many services maintained by local partners and GCC. However, visitors found their trip to the canyon altered by the pause in NPS ranger-led tours and programs and closed visitor centers.

GCC’s Astronomer in Residence, Laura-May Abron, was in month 2 of living and working at Grand Canyon when the shutdown began. As a GCC Astronomer in Residence, Laura-May had a full slate of public programs planned for October— little did she know how important these programs would be in filling the sudden void of public programming at the canyon.

A French-US public astronomer, science communicator and artist from Paris, LauraMay studied art at University of London and astrophysics at the Paris Observatory. She has created and hosted multiple science shows and currently works as an astronomer and presenter at Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, CA. Her ability to translate the complex science of solar flares, exotic planets, and supernovas into 17 entertaining and interactive events was greatly appreciated by park visitors, with over 3,300 event attendees!

Long-lasting Impacts on Visitor Experience at the Canyon •

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Over 200 guests joined Laura-May Abron on Mather Point for the full moon rise, where she gave a lecture on the significance of the moon to our planet and helped guests of all ages to view the moon through a telescope.

On her co-hosted podcast with Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, “All Space Considered,” Laura-May Abron shared a history of astronomy in Grand Canyon National Park from her unique perspective as Astronomer in Residence while educating the public on the importance of dark skies.

Public astronomy programs at the canyon, Fall 2025.

Photo Credit: John Segesta

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Laura-May and visiting Astronomer in Residence alumnus, Dean Regas, stepped up to co-host a community star party for the local K-12 students and their families in lieu of furloughed NPS staff. They introduced numerous constellations to the students using equipment ranging from a historic Dobson telescope to a smart telescope on the cutting-edge of astrophotography.

Enhance the visitor experience and inspire connection to the canyon through a gift to the Artist and Astronomer in Residence Program.

Donate at: http://bit.ly/4rfMb1j

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Ways to Give Thank a Ranger!

Park rangers do their work with heart. For them, it’s more than a job. It’s a way of life, rooted in meaning, culture, and care. Many commit not just themselves, but the lives of their families to this calling. They care deeply for the land and for every person who steps into the canyon hoping to experience something extraordinary.

The insight, care, and institutional knowledge of Grand Canyon’s park rangers is invaluable.

Photo credit: NPS

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Now, we have a chance to share our appreciation for everything they’ve contributed and sacrificed to protect this landscape and the people who come to know it.

When someone takes a moment to share their appreciation, it feels like a warm hand on their shoulder—a quiet reminder that others feel the same sense of awe and wonder they do.

Support GCC With an End-of-Year Gift Thank a Ranger and make a difference by contributing to GCC’s year-end fundraising efforts where your gift will be matched!

Donate at: https://bit.ly/4igfhcI

Will you take a moment to send a note of appreciation to a ranger?

It will mean the world to them. Just fill out the Thank a Ranger virtual card by going to www.grandcanyon.org/pages/thank-a-ranger.

We’ll make sure it reaches the hands and hearts of rangers at Grand Canyon.

If you have any questions or would like to know how to make GCC part of your giving plan, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our Philanthropy Team at philanthropy@grandcanyon.org!

And if you can, will you consider a gift—of any amount—to help fund the infrastructure and programs that allow rangers to thrive?

This holiday season, your gift will be doubled, expanding what’s possible and preserving more moments of wonder. You’ll help bring to life: •

Restored trails and refreshing water stations, so families can journey farther and see more.

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Youth river trips, where young people feel the pull of their ancestral homelands and hear the stories carried by the river.

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Tribal voices, through interpretive signage, engaging films, and powerful storytelling.

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Education programs, like Junior Rangers, that spark curiosity in young minds.

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Tribal co-stewardship, preserving living culture and traditional knowledge.

Photo credit: GCC/L.Cisneros

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28 Notes from the Field

By Omar Martinez, GCC Field Institute Program Manager

As the leaves begin to change in the high country of Northern Arizona, we here at GCC Field Institute are reflecting on our own big year of transition. From bringing a new administrative team to the helm, launching new programming, and adapting to a natural disaster that left a lasting impact, 2025 was a dynamic year.

As the canyon is home to countless critters and ecosystems it also houses the multitude of dreams, stories, and histories of the world.

Part of why so many people are beckoned to the canyon is the dramatic juxtaposition of

visual overload and the immense depth and quiet. Here at GCC Field Institute, our hope is to continually inspire new park champions, future advocates, and lifelong enthusiasts for our canyon cathedrals.

During a guided tour, a Field Institute instructor will weave the canyon’s story on short hikes, both above and below the rim, to amazing destinations. Photo credit: NPS

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With 2026 knocking at our door, we are excited for brand new Day Programs slated to launch in the spring. These will include a variety of new courses aimed at broadening our engagement with visitors on the rim. Our multi-day trips catalog is also getting a revamp with the addition of new itineraries to lesser traveled parts of the canyon, including expeditions to Nankoweap, South Bass, and Thunder River.

terrain or sharing the canyon’s ancient secrets, I’m constantly in awe of its power to teach, transform, and connect us to something greater.

I look forward to helping you experience the canyon in a way that’s not just memorable, but meaningful. I hope the journey you take here lingers long after the dust settles.”

Come join us at the Field Institute to create another year filled with incredible memories!

MEET THE TEAM “Hi, I’m Noelle Ritzman, the Day Tour and Logistics Coordinator for the Field Institute.

It’s been a true pleasure working with both GCC and the National Park Service. I’ve had the opportunity to attend NPS trainings, which have deepened my understanding of Grand Canyon and our Intertribal Working Group. I’m continuously learning how to be a better listener and a stronger advocate for the environment and our shared history.”

“Greetings from the Multiday Tour Coordinator, Paetyn McCarter. Grand Canyon has been a lifelong source of inspiration for me, as a geologist, an outdoor enthusiast, and a lifelong lover of wild places. My journey has taken me from guiding in Denali National Park and Preserve to exploring the hidden depths and mysteries of the canyon, a place I now proudly call my professional home.

With a background in science and a love for storytelling through art, I bring a unique blend of knowledge, passion, and creativity to every journey I help craft. I’m truly honored to help others experience the magic, mystery, and deep stillness that only the canyon can offer.

Whether I’m backpacking through remote

Rim to Rim FI Trip in May 2025.

Photo credit: GCC/L.Cisneros

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Get Ready for Grand Canyon’s 2026 Field Institute Trips Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute (GCCFI) is here for you! We are thrilled to share a range of trips in 2026 tailored to your hiking experience.

Whether you’re looking for a day hike for your family, a once-in-a-lifetime backpacking trip, or world-class instruction in drawing landscapes, the Field Institute has a variety of programs designed to inspire you above and below the rim of Grand Canyon.

For over two and a half decades, the Field Institute has been working closely with the National Park Service to provide educational opportunities that complement the park’s interpretive efforts.

Each program is reviewed by an interdisciplinary team of NPS educators and resource managers to ensure that it meets the educational goals of the park.

2026 SCHEDULE Feb 2–5

Phantom Ranch

Feb 13–19

Tanner to Little Colorado River

Mar 9–18

Hermit to South Bass

Mar 20–22

Geology Hike & Camp

Apr 5–8

Havasupai Gardens: Intro to Backpacking

Apr 15–19

Horseshoe Mesa

Apr 19–23

Boucher Creek

Apr 23–28

Hermit Loop

May 1–4

Havasupai Gardens: Intro to Backpacking

May 11–15

Bright Angel Loop

Aug 3–6

Drawing on the Edge

Sep 18–23

Hermit Loop

Oct 9–17

Nankoweap

Oct 17–23

Tanner to Little Colorado River

Oct 29–Nov. 5

Tanner to Grandview along the Escalante

Nov 1–5

Bright Angel Loop

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Scan the QR code to find out more about Guided Tours and Experiences

Phantom Ranch. Photo NPS

Bright Angel Campground. Photo: NPS

WINTER CANYON VIEWS 2025/26 Photo: NPS/L.Ohlson

FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR A MORE LEISURELY EXPERIENCE These trips are perfect for those who prefer a more laid-back pace while still enjoying the grandeur of Grand Canyon.

Phantom Ranch Hiking Tour

Bright Angel Loop: Canyon Backpacking Classics

(February 2–5) Embark on a unique opportunity to stay at the historic Phantom Ranch, nestled at the bottom of Grand Canyon. Enjoy the comfort of a cozy 10-person cabin and savor hearty meals without the burden of heavy backpacking gear.

This trip combines comfort with breathtaking canyon views, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed adventure.

(May 11–15, November 1–5) A perfect introduction to backpacking in Grand Canyon, the South Kaibab and Bright Angel trails make their way through a diverse cross section of geology and ecology.

Enjoy spectacular river views and hikes to side creeks and canyons, and camp at iconic Bright Angel Campground and Havasupai Gardens along the route.

FOR THOSE LOOKING TO LEARN ON THEIR ADVENTURE The perfect trips for those looking to deepen their knowledge of this world wonder.

Geology Hike and Camp: South Rim (March 20–22) Explore Grand Canyon’s geological wonders with informative talks, short hikes, and dramatic overlooks.

This trip provides a comprehensive introduction to the canyon’s geology, including rock types, formation theories, and notable geologists.

While the hikes are moderate, the focus on geology makes this an educational and engaging adventure.

Horseshoe Mesa Backpacking: Canyon Stories (April 15–19) Experience the rugged terrain of Horseshoe Mesa with steep trails and stunning campsites. This trip combines hiking with an exploration of the canyon’s mining history and diverse plant and animal life.

Discover early settler remnants and gain insights into the tribal communities that call Grand Canyon home.

This trip is ideal for those looking for a moderately challenging hike with rich historical context.

FOR THOSE READY FOR A CHALLENGE For seasoned backpackers seeking an epic adventure, these trips offer rigorous hiking and the chance to fully immerse yourself in Grand Canyon’s vast landscapes.

Hermit to South Bass Backpacking: Deep Canyon Exploration

Nankoweap Canyon Backpacking (October 9–17)

(March 9–18) Venture into one of Grand Canyon’s wildest and leasttraveled areas on this nine-day backpacking trip. Traverse the western Tonto Trail and explore diverse geological, historical, and ecological features.

This challenging hike provides ample opportunities for side canyon exploration and relaxation, making it ideal for experienced backpackers.

Descend into the Nankoweap basin on the fragments of a trail built by the Powell Survey over a century ago. The Nankoweap basin is a spectacular labyrinth of tributary canyons eroded into unique outcrops of the Precambrian Chuar Group strata. Hidden among the dozens of arroyos and terraces are remarkable geologic exposures and a lush riparian oasis. Explore Nankoweap Creek, the Colorado River and the Butte Fault while examining rocks, plants, critters and archaeology along the way.

BOOK YOUR 2026 TRIP WITH GCC FIELD INSTITUTE! grandcanyon.org/experience-grand-canyon/guided-tours

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32 Holiday Gift Guide Celebrate the holiday season with gifts that bring the inspiration of the canyon home while giving back to this incredible place. Whether you’re shopping for a young explorer, a friend with a dedicated craft table, or a canyon-lover who is also a homebody, there’s something SHOP HERE: for everyone in our curated holiday gift guide. grandcanyon.org/store

FOR KIDS Scan the QR codes to purchase online!

Grand Canyon Animal Mug

Start their day with wild inspiration!

This adorable animal-themed mug is perfect for little adventurers who love learning about the canyon’s creatures.

$12

3 styles!

Grand Canyon Shoe Charms Personalize shoes or backpacks with these fun PVC charms celebrating Grand Canyon flora, fauna, animals, and Junior Ranger pride.

These shoe charms make great stocking stuffers! $10

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WINTER CANYON VIEWS 2025/26

$10

$10

SHOP WITH PURPOSE!

Every purchase supports Grand Canyon Conservancy’s mission to protect Grand Canyon National Park for generations to come.

FOR THAT ONE ARTSY FRIEND Quilt Kit – Below the Rim Piece together the magic of Grand Canyon landscapes with this beautiful quilt kit featuring western views. $40

Embroidery Kit – Canyon Scene Relax and stitch a peaceful Grand Canyon moment with this nature-inspired embroidery kit.

$35

FOR THE COZY HOMEBODY Camp Mug

Canyon Socks

Perfect for morning coffee or campfire cocoa, this mug features classic canyon style.

Keep your toes toasty and trail-ready with these stylish and comfortable socks.

$20

$18

FOR THE REFLECTIVE EXPLORER Grand Reflections Book

Grand Canyon Perpetual Calendar

A beautiful collection of Grand Canyon reflections—perfect for coffee tables or as a heartfelt gift.

$18

Stay inspired year-round with canyon quotes, facts, and images to enjoy daily. $15

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Grand Canyon Conservancy P.O. Box 399, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023 We inspire generations of park champions to cherish and support the natural and cultural wonder of Grand Canyon. grandcanyon.org

INSPIRE. ENGAGE. PROTECT. PLEASE RECYCLE.