Gardiner to Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Geology Field Trip

$200

Dates:
July 9

Location:
Gardiner, Montana

Meals Included?:
No

Instructors:
John Gillespie

Audience Type:
Adult

Program Type:
Field Seminars

Program Subject:
Day Trip, Geology, Natural History

The Gardiner to Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Geology Field Trip explores part of the Northern Range and the northern flank of the Yellowstone Caldera and reveals a diverse world of ancient oceans, multi-stage bi-model volcanism, glaciation, landslides, hot springs and fault lines.

The route traverses an extraordinary section of fascinating and varied geologic landscape. that evolved in different epochs but in this very place. It now provides ideal habitat for Yellowstone’s iconic flora and fauna. Through roadside stops and short hikes, you’ll be presented the opportunity to try to decipher some of the stories of Yellowstone’s ancient past as written in the rocks.

You’ll visit many varied geologic sites, including the hottest place in the park, the world’s largest geyser, and the Yellowstone caldera. You’ll also contemplate the formation of one of the iconic sites pivotal in the creation of the world’s first national park on a hike along the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

About the instructor

John Gillespie has been fascinated by the geology of Yellowstone since his first visit in 1972. After completing studies at the University of Delaware, John worked as a field geologist, eventually founding and running two geologic consulting firms. He now applies his 40-year career in natural resources to Yellowstone. He is a certified interpretive guide, believes in life-long learning and regularly explores Yellowstone Country geology from his home just north of the park in Paradise Valley.

Download Program Information:

Course Letter

More Information:

Lodging | Audience Descriptions

We are continually updating and refining our COVID-19 mitigation measures to ensure the health and safety our guests, staff and volunteers. Read our COVID-19 guidelines for program participants.

SUMMER ACTIVITY LEVEL SCALE

Be prepared to hike up to 1 mile per day, comfortably, through relatively flat terrain on maintained trails.
Be prepared to hike up to 3 miles per day, comfortably, with elevation gains up to 600 feet. Some off-trail hiking possible.
Be prepared to hike up to 5 miles per day, comfortably, with occasional elevation gains up to 1000 feet in undulating terrain.
Be prepared to hike up to 8 miles per day, at a brisk pace, comfortably, with climbs up to 1500 feet on dirt trails. Loose rocks, uneven footing, and off-trail hiking are possible. Good coordination is recommended.
Be prepared for brisk aerobic, destination-oriented hiking up to 12 miles a day. You should be physically conditioned to do these hikes comfortably. Elevation changes up to 2000 feet on dirt trails or off-trail. Loose rock, uneven footing, steep hillside traverses, and stream crossings are possible. Good coordination is required.

WINTER ACTIVITY LEVEL SCALE

Leisurely hikes up to 1 mile per day through relatively flat terrain on maintained or snow-packed trails.
Hikes on snow-packed trails, or snowshoe or ski trips, up to 3 miles per day with climbs up to 250 feet.
Brisk hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing up to 5 miles per day with climbs up to 500 feet, including some trail-breaking in snow.
Brisk aerobic snowshoeing or skiing up to 8 miles per day with climbs up to 1000 feet; or steep, rugged, off-trail skiing or snowshoeing—including breaking trail in variable snow conditions.
Brisk aerobic snowshoeing or skiing up to 12 miles per day with climbs up to 1500 feet; or steep, rugged, off-trail skiing or snowshoeing—including breaking trail in variable snow conditions.