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SOUTHWEST

ARIZONA ADVENTURE
See Creation on a Grand Scale

Stand at the edge of the Grand Canyon. Explore a meteor crater formed thousands of years ago. Journey through the desert by Pink Jeep and discover ancient cliff dwellings carved into the Arizona landscape.

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The Arizona Adventure takes students beyond the classroom and into some of the Southwest's most remarkable landscapes, where science, history, geology, and faith come together in unforgettable ways.​  Through hands-on exploration and a biblical worldview, students are encouraged to slow down, look closely, ask big questions, and consider the wonder of God's creation.

Image by Stig-Ove Pettersen

LEARN + PREPARE

Below is an overview of what many ACTS® groups experience during an Arizona Adventure program. Use this page to learn more about each location and prepare for your program!  Each itinerary is customized to fit your group's goals.

ITINERARY INCLUSIONS

Most Arizona Adventure Programs include:

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  • Grand Canyon South Rim

  • Meteor Crater

  • Hoover Dam

  • Sedona Pink Jeep Tour

  • Grand Canyon Caverns

  • Montezuma Castle National Monument

  • Lowell Observatory

  • Calico Ghost Town

  • City of Flagstaff

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With extended time or additional days the program may include:​​

  • Additional destinations and educational attractions

CLIMATE

Arizona's landscapes come with dramatically different elevations and climates.

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The Grand Canyon's South Rim sits around 7,000 feet above sea level, meaning temperatures can be surprisingly cool - even during the summer. Winter can bring snow, ice, and road closures, while spring and fall can bring rapidly changing conditions.

 

Lower elevations and the canyon's interior can be significantly warmer. Students should be prepared for changing temperatures, plenty of sun, and lots of walking.

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Comfortable layers, sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of water are essential.

GEOGRAPHY

Arizona is a land of dramatic contrasts - from high desert and red-rock formations to deep canyon walls and expansive skies.

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The Grand Canyon stretches approximately 277 miles across the Colorado Plateau, revealing layers of rock that provide an extraordinary setting for studying geology, geography, ecology, and the natural world.​

WATCH

  • The Grand Canyon Catastrophe - available from Institute for Creation Research

  • Over The Grand Canyon from Aerial Filmworks for beautiful views of the Grand Canyon. 

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READ

  • Grand Canyon: A Different View
    Tom Vail, Master Books

  • Students can also explore introductory resources on geology, desert ecosystems, and the history of the American Southwest.


LISTEN​​​

  • Sometimes the best preparation is simply learning to listen.
    Spend a few moments in a quiet outdoor space without headphones or distractions. Pay attention to the sounds around you and consider how different the experience can be when you slow down and observe.

PREPARE

MENTALLY

EAT

  • Keep it simple and adventure-ready with classic road-trip fare, hearty meals, and plenty of trail mix for days spent exploring.
     

DRINK

  • Water. Lots of water. Arizona's sun and dry climate can make hydration especially important, even when temperatures don't feel extreme.

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WALK​​

  • In addition to enjoying luxury motorcoach transportation, every tour day includes lots of walking - everywhere!  Prepare for your program by putting in lots of steps at home, and make sure to 'break in' your favorite new shoes for your adventure.

PHYSICALLY

Image by Tom Gainor

EXTEND THE ADVENTURE

Want to explore even more of the Southwest? Arizona Adventure can be customized to include additional destinations, national parks, and educational experiences throughout the region.

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