Park rangers are always there to help the Grand Canyon’s millions of visitors. But who is supporting the rangers and the greater mission of protecting the park?
That would be Grand Canyon Conservancy. The nonprofit partners with the National Park Service to maintain the park’s trails, fund its search-and-rescue team and lead tours for visitors. Discover how the Conservancy enhances the experience of seeing our state’s awe-inspiring natural wonder below.
Grand Canyon After Dark
While there is no beating the view of the canyon during the day, the park truly comes alive at night. In 2019, Grand Canyon National Park was designated as an International Dark Sky Park. That means the Conservancy plays a role in reducing artificial light inside the park to preserve the darkness for scientific research, for the wildlife that make the park their home and for its millions of visitors.
Grand Canyon Conservancy’s Astronomer in Residence Program connects visitors with scientists through programs such as constellation tours, pop-up telescope viewings, hands-on activities and citizen science projects.
Experts in Grand Canyon Educational Adventures
Grand Canyon Conservancy’s Field Institute provides amazing immersive and educational adventures at Grand Canyon—all officially designed and developed in partnership with Grand Canyon National Park. Whether you’re looking for a day hike for your family, a once-in-a-lifetime backpacking trip, or an educational class on outdoor photography, the Field Institute has a variety of programs designed to inspire you above and below the rim of Grand Canyon. GCC classes and tours promote a sense of place, encouraging an ethic of caring and connecting with Grand Canyon on a deeper emotional and spiritual level. GCC believes that the more humans collectively care about a place, the better the chance that it will be safeguarded and protected for generations to come.
Creativity in the Canyon
The Grand Canyon, with its sweeping views and landscapes, has served as muse for many artists. Their work has inspired conversations about how we see the world, the canyon and each other.
Since 2020, the Conservancy has selected several Artists in Residence to live onsite, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the land, culture and history on an emotional and intellectual level. These creatives don’t just paint the scenery. They tell ecological stories through sculpture and costume, create fabric art, perform culinary experiments and host workshops and exhibitions.
Protecting the Water
Water in Arizona is becoming a finite resource. Not only do those in the state need it to drink and bathe, but it is also vital for protecting the park’s wildlife.
Last year, Grand Canyon National Park’s Hydrology Program, funded by Grand Canyon Conservancy, completed the second round of the North Rim Dye Trace Study, the largest program of its kind on the continent. It is already helping improve our understanding of groundwater flow and its impact on wildfires and drinking water.
How Can You Help?
When you purchase a gift from one of our stores or become a member of Grand Canyon Conservancy, you are not only furthering our mission of preserving and protecting Grand Canyon National Park for future generations, but you are also supporting the programs that make your experience at this natural wonder truly awe-inspiring. For more information, visit grandcanyon.org
