Join philosophy professor Perry Mason and geologist Beth Schwarzman ’66 on the seventh Carleton Grand Canyon river-running trip. From Lee’s Ferry in northeastern Arizona to Pearce Ferry in Nevada, this 18-day, 280-mile trip will follow in the historic wake of John Wesley Powell, first known navigator of the canyon. Enjoy the magnificent scenery carved by the Colorado River as it meanders between red cliffs, then thunders through some of the most exciting whitewater in North America.

River running

You will travel in dories, each carrying four passengers and rowed by a skilled boatman. River-running occupies less than half of a typical day. The rest of the day is up to you: You can hike up hidden side canyons, visit archaeological sites, read, take photographs, draw, fish, or relax beside a waterfall. Traveling by river opens scores of places that are inaccessible by land and cannot be imagined from the rim of the canyon.

Active Adventure

Although this is an active adventure, no unusual skill, strength, or experience is necessary--only an adventurous spirit and a willingness to take things as they come. It is not recommended for children younger than 12, but there is no upper age limit. This trip fills quickly.

Accommodations

At night, stretched out on a white sand beach, you will fall asleep to the music of the Colorado River under a brilliant canopy of stars.

Faculty

Perry Mason, the John E. Sawyer Professor of Philosophy and Liberal Learning, has been a member of all of Carleton’s major staff and faculty committees and also served as vice president for development since coming to Carleton in 1968. An outdoor enthusiast—a fly fisher, backpacker, distance runner, and sailor—Mason teaches environment ethics, a subject he will talk about on this trip.

Geologist Beth Schwarzman ’66, leader of six previous Grand Canyon trips, will serve as guide.