Fossils and Paleontology

2026 Grand Canyon Celebration of Art Exhibition and Sale in historic Kolb Studio on the South Rim. Celebration of Art (CoA) brings artists together, from throughout the region, to paint "en plein air" (outside on location) the world-class scenery the canyon offers. The artists are tasked with capturing the ever-changing colors and light as the sun moves across the intricate layers of the canyon. Paintings produced during this special event are shared with the public during a six-month sale and exhibition online and at Historic Kolb Studio. All available artwork is available for sale online at shop.grandcanyon.org , with proceeds going towards a fund to establish a dedicated art venue at the South Rim. Kolb Studio is open to the public daily from 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

2 pm-2:30 pm: Grand Canyon Geology Talk Ranger Program Meet at Yavapai Geology Museum Enhance your afternoon with quick insights into the geologic story of Grand Canyon at our "Geology Talk" ranger program. Meet in front of Yavapai Geology Museum. Learn how this immense canyon formed and the science behind the landscape. The program is 30 minutes long and is accessible. Grand Canyon is one-mile deep, up to 18 miles wide, 277 river miles long, and displays more than 20 layers of rock The layers tell stories of oceans, deserts, mountains, and swamps that were once here, brought into existence, then swept away over the vast expanse of time. Grand Canyon is a geologically young landscape being sculpted from very old rocks. Knowing some of the stories encoded in the rock layers enriches your understanding of our planet and enhances your experience at Grand Canyon. The program is free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The Geology Talk is subject to cancellation, or may be moved indoors due to inclement weather or when lightning danger is present.

10 am Daily: Guided Rim Walk —Meet at Bright Angel Trailhead Learn about Grand Canyon's natural world on a one-hour guided walk on a paved pathway along the canyon rim. Topics vary and may include: animals and plants adapting to changing seasons, man's impact on nature, how nature inspires writers and poets, rare and endangered species, or Indigenous people's use of plants and animals. Program duration: 60 minutes. Presented daily. Perfect for Junior Rangers! The program is free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This program is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather or when lightning danger is present.

The Condor Comeback: Presentation by GCC Educator in Residence Meet at Yavapai Point 1 pm–2 pm October 13, 20, and 27 Join Environmental Educator-in-Residence Keaton Vanderploeg to discover the remarkable story of the California condor’s recovery from the brink of extinction. Stop by to learn more, ask questions, and chat about the ongoing efforts to protect these incredible birds. Keaton Vanderploeg is a naturalist, educator, and professional guide who has spent the past decade interpreting the geology, ecology, and history of Grand Canyon National Park. Based in Flagstaff, Arizona, he has led thousands of visitors along the South Rim, developing a storytelling-driven approach that makes complex natural systems accessible and engaging for all audiences. With a background in Life Sciences and History from Arizona State University, Keaton combines field experience with science communication to help visitors better understand and connect with the Canyon’s landscapes. His work focuses on fostering curiosity, stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. During his residency, Keaton will present programs on California condor recovery, fire ecology in ponderosa pine forests, and the Grand Canyon’s diverse life zones. These programs aim to explore how conservation, climate, and park management shape the Canyon today. The program is free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All programs are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather or when lightning danger is present.

Going Pine Nuts: Presentation by GCC Educator in Residence Meet at Grandview Point 1 pm–2 pm October 14, 21, and 28 Join Environmental Educator-in-Residence Keaton Vanderploeg to discover the remarkable pinyon pine and its relationships with the people and animals of the Southwest. Stop by to ask questions and learn more about this important part of the Canyon ecosystem. Keaton Vanderploeg is a naturalist, educator, and professional guide who has spent the past decade interpreting the geology, ecology, and history of Grand Canyon National Park. Based in Flagstaff, Arizona, he has led thousands of visitors along the South Rim, developing a storytelling-driven approach that makes complex natural systems accessible and engaging for all audiences. With a background in Life Sciences and History from Arizona State University, Keaton combines field experience with science communication to help visitors better understand and connect with the Canyon’s landscapes. His work focuses on fostering curiosity, stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. During his residency, Keaton will present programs on California condor recovery, fire ecology in ponderosa pine forests, and the Grand Canyon’s diverse life zones. These programs aim to explore how conservation, climate, and park management shape the Canyon today. The program is free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All programs are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather or when lightning danger is present.

River of Rock: Presentation by GCC Educator in Residence Meet at Desert View Watchtower 1 pm–2 pm October 15 and 22 Join Environmental Educator-in-Residence Keaton Vanderploeg to explore the Colorado River, its unique native fish, and efforts to protect them in a changing river ecosystem. Stop by to ask questions and learn more about the river and its wildlife. Keaton Vanderploeg is a naturalist, educator, and professional guide who has spent the past decade interpreting the geology, ecology, and history of Grand Canyon National Park. Based in Flagstaff, Arizona, he has led thousands of visitors along the South Rim, developing a storytelling-driven approach that makes complex natural systems accessible and engaging for all audiences. With a background in Life Sciences and History from Arizona State University, Keaton combines field experience with science communication to help visitors better understand and connect with the Canyon’s landscapes. His work focuses on fostering curiosity, stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. During his residency, Keaton will present programs on California condor recovery, fire ecology in ponderosa pine forests, and the Grand Canyon’s diverse life zones. These programs aim to explore how conservation, climate, and park management shape the Canyon today. The program is free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All programs are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather or when lightning danger is present.

Understanding Fire Ecology: Presentation by GCC Educator in Residence Meet at Grandview Point 1–2 pm October 11, 18, and 25 Join Environmental Educator-in-Residence Keaton Vanderploeg to discover how Grand Canyon’s forests have adapted to life in a fire-prone ecosystem. Stop by to explore the topic, ask questions, and chat with Keaton about fire ecology in the Canyon. Keaton Vanderploeg is a naturalist, educator, and professional guide who has spent the past decade interpreting the geology, ecology, and history of Grand Canyon National Park. Based in Flagstaff, Arizona, he has led thousands of visitors along the South Rim, developing a storytelling-driven approach that makes complex natural systems accessible and engaging for all audiences. With a background in Life Sciences and History from Arizona State University, Keaton combines field experience with science communication to help visitors better understand and connect with the Canyon’s landscapes. His work focuses on fostering curiosity, stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. During his residency, Keaton will present programs on California condor recovery, fire ecology in ponderosa pine forests, and the Grand Canyon’s diverse life zones. These programs aim to explore how conservation, climate, and park management shape the Canyon today. The program is free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All programs are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather or when lightning danger is present.

Looking at Life Zones: Elevation, Diversity, and a Changing Canyon--Presentation by GCC Educator in Residence Meet at Desert View Watchtower 1 pm–2 pm October 12, 19, and 26 Join Environmental Educator-in-Residence Keaton Vanderploeg to explore how elevation, temperature, and climate shape Grand Canyon’s diverse landscapes. Stop by to ask questions and learn more about the Canyon’s unique life zones. Keaton Vanderploeg is a naturalist, educator, and professional guide who has spent the past decade interpreting the geology, ecology, and history of Grand Canyon National Park. Based in Flagstaff, Arizona, he has led thousands of visitors along the South Rim, developing a storytelling-driven approach that makes complex natural systems accessible and engaging for all audiences. With a background in Life Sciences and History from Arizona State University, Keaton combines field experience with science communication to help visitors better understand and connect with the Canyon’s landscapes. His work focuses on fostering curiosity, stewardship, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. During his residency, Keaton will present programs on California condor recovery, fire ecology in ponderosa pine forests, and the Grand Canyon’s diverse life zones. These programs aim to explore how conservation, climate, and park management shape the Canyon today. The program is free of charge. Children must be accompanied by an adult. All programs are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather or when lightning danger is present.