The Grand Canyon Field Institute, a nonprofit outdoor-education organization cosponsored by the Grand Canyon National Park, provides the opportunity to experience the canyon with those who understand it best. Backpacking trips last 1 to 9 days, and prices range from $250 to $600. Some outings aim to explore broad subjects such as ecology, geology, paleontology, and archaeology, while others hone narrower skills, such as orienteering or drawing. Experts, all of whom are intimately acquainted with the canyon, guide the excursions. Because courses vary greatly, the Field Institute assigns a difficulty level to each and attempts to ensure that participants find one suited to their skill levels and interests. Highly recommended. tel. 866/471-4435 or 928/638-2485, P.O. Box 399, Grand Canyon, AZ 86023, www.grandcanyon.org/fieldinstitute.
