Grand Canyon Weekly Wrap-up: Feb. 10-14, 2025

Cultural Demonstration 2025 Season Begins Tuesday, February 18

Grand Canyon National Park, in partnership with Grand Canyon Conservancy, is excited to announce the start of the 11th season of the Cultural Demonstration Program, beginning next week. Inaugurated in 2014 by the Grand Canyon Intertribal Working Group, the program began with just four demonstrators and has since expanded to include over 200 participants.

Starting February 18, cultural demonstrators will be returning to the Desert View Watchtower, providing demonstrations in the View Room Tuesday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The 2025 season will be launched by three talented Diné artists: Laverine Greyeyes, Diné weaver; Cristoff Keyonnie, Diné painter; and DeMaudrei Yazzie, Diné seamstress.

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday — February 18, 19, and 20, 2025

9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at Desert View Watchtower

Laverine Greyeyes – Renowned Diné pictorial rug weaver

• Laverine creates woven rugs that depict landscapes, animals, and people, adding a unique pictorial element to traditional Diné designs, which typically feature geometric patterns. She learned the art of weaving from her mother, Louise Nez, and has continued the tradition of passing down this skill to future generations.

Cristoff Keyonnie – Diné visual artist from Teesto, Arizona

• Cristoff is known for his original paintings on canvas and paper, using various mediums including oil, acrylic, and watercolor. His artwork has been featured at prestigious venues such as the Heard Museum and Santa Fe Indian Markets.

DeMaudrei Yazzie – Diné seamstress

• DeMaudrei was inspired to take up sewing by watching her grandmother and aunt, as well as by the influence of other tribes on Diné outfits. She began with cotton materials and has since expanded to working with satin and velvet fabrics.

Recovery Effort Near Yavapai Geology Museum on February 10

On the morning of February 10 at approximately 8 a.m., Grand Canyon Dispatch received a report of a broken rock wall and scattered car parts east of the Yavapai Geology Museum. In response, Grand Canyon aviation staff immediately launched an aerial search and located a vehicle and a body approximately 1,000 feet below the rim. A team of four responders, assisted by aviation personnel, successfully recovered the body of a 20-year-old male from California.

We would like to extend our deepest thanks and appreciation to all the personnel who played a crucial role in this recovery effort. The investigation is ongoing and is being coordinated with the Coconino County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Trail Crew from the Facilities Maintenance Division will be repairing the damaged rock wall near the Yavapai Geology Musuem in the coming days. From now through Feb. 26, visitors may expect a temporary bypass around the work area from 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. during the work week.

This Week’s Programs with Stephen Hummel, GCC Astronomer in Residence

Join Stephen Hummel, the Dark Skies Initiative Coordinator from McDonald Observatory, for two evening programs this weekend:

Astronomy Night – Constellations Over the Canyon 🌌

Friday and Saturday, Feb. 15-16 from 7:30-830 p.m.

Grand Canyon Visitor Center (meet outside in front of the building)

Join astronomer in residence Stephen Hummel to learn about the science, mythology, and history of the constellations through a laser-guided constellation talk, all under one the darkest night skies in the United States!

Stephen is an award-winning astrophotographer and an experienced dark sky educator. Check out his full February program schedule on the park’s Upcoming Night Sky Programs webpage or in the attached flyer here.

The Jackson Family-New “Grand Canyon Speaks” Podcast Now Available

In this episode of “Grand Canyon Speaks,” hosts Meranden and Lakin introduce listeners to the Jackson family, who share their deep connection to the Grand Canyon and Diné culture through their unique artistic crafts. From silversmithing to footwear design, the Jackson family’s work is inspired by their heritage and the sacred landscapes they call home.

Tracie Jackson, a footwear designer, discusses her journey breaking into the sneaker industry and her passion for mentoring Indigenous youth in design. Maryetta and Henry Jackson delve into the intricate details of their handmade jewelry, highlighting the stories and symbolism woven into each piece.

Listen/download “Grand Canyon Speaks” on nps.gov or Apple Podcasts to hear their inspiring stories and learn how they honor their Diné culture through creativity and craftsmanship.

Employee Spotlight!

Sam Harvey, U.S. Park Ranger, South Rim Patrol

I’m originally from New Mexico. I worked as a paramedic for 3 years and then seasonally at Zion National Park before getting a permanent job at the Grand Canyon. I’m currently working on learning how to play the banjo.

How long have you worked at GRCA? Where are you based out of?

I’ve been at Grand Canyon since January 2024. I work on the South Rim, though I am very excited that I’ll be able to do some shifts down in the Canyon District next week!

Can you share a memorable or rewarding experience you’ve had while working with the National Park Service?

One of my most memorable experiences while working for the NPS was last fall when I assisted a woman undergoing a mental health crisis at Phantom Ranch. It was my first time riding in an NPS helicopter and the view of the Canyon from the sky is unbelievable.

Outside of work, what are some of your favorite activities or hobbies?

I recently went skiing for the first time at Snow Bowl and had an absolute blast. I’m hoping to go back and finish conquering the bunny slope soon.

What’s the best book, podcast, or show you’ve enjoyed recently?

I recently finished “Flowers for Algernon” by Daniel Keyes. It told a fascinating story in an interesting format that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Valentine’s Day Flower Sale at the General Store

Kaibab Learning Center is hosting a Valentine’s Day Flower Sale on Friday, February 14 at the DNC General Store on the South Rim from 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. All proceeds go towards educational and childcare programming for the center.

More information, including pricing for individual flowers and bouquets can be found in the attached flyer here.

Grand Canyon School PTA Announces Whole Health Family Night

On Tuesday, Feb. 18 from 4:30-7:30 p.m., the Grand Canyon School PTA will be sponsoring a ‘Whole Health Family Night’ in the Grand Canyon School Multi-Purpose Room.

The evening will include free soup and resources from community partners to promote health and wellness. For more information, including the list of community partners who will be present at the event, see the attached flyer here.

Grand Canyon School PTA Canyon Closet

The PTA is offering Canyon Closet clothing and winter gear for the public every Friday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. during the month of February.

The Canyon Closet is now located at the Grand Canyon School in the High School building upstairs and is also accepting drop off donations on Fridays.

More information can be found in the attached flyer here.

South Rim

Xanterra

• Maswik Food Court, 7 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Maswik Pizza Pub, 4-9 p.m.
• Bright Angel Fountain, 7 a.m.-4 p.m.
• Harvey House Café/Fred Harvey Burger Restaurant, Breakfast 7-10 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Dinner 4-8 p.m.
• Fred Harvey Tavern, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. daily, (food until 9 p.m.)
• Arizona Steakhouse, Closed from Jan. 2-March 3, 2025
• El Tovar Dining Room and Lounge – Breakfast 7-10 a.m., Lunch 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Dinner 4:30-9 p.m., Lounge, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. (food until 8:30 p.m.)
• The Grand Canyon Kennel, 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Rec Center, 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily.

Delaware North

• Yavapai Dining Hall, breakfast 7-10 a.m., dinner 5-8 p.m.
• Yavapai Lodge Tavern and Patio, 12-9 p.m.
• Coffee Shop, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.
• The Canyon Village Market, 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Deli 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
• Camper Services, daily from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Other

• Grand Canyon Clinic: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Canyon Adventures Bike Tours and Cafe: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Visitor Center (GCVC): 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily
• Grand Canyon Conservancy stores: Verkamps 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Yavapai Geology Museum-8 a.m.-6 p.m., Visitor Center Plaza-8 a.m.-6 p.m., Kolb Studio-8 a.m.-6 p.m.
• The Grand Canyon Community Library: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
• Grand Canyon Food Pantry: Monday 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Wednesday 5:30-7 p.m., Saturday 2-4 p.m.
• Canyon Community Yoga & Wellness (at the Rec Center): Full class schedule can be found here. Use discount GCLOCALS at checkout.
• Inner Canyon:
• Bright Angel Trail from Havasupai Gardens to Silver Bridge, closed Oct 21, 2024, to May 14, 2025
• Silver Bridge, closed Oct 21, 2024, to May 14, 2025
• Bright Angel Campground, closed Nov 4, 2024, to May 14, 2025
• Phantom Ranch (Lodging and Canteen), closed from Jan 2, 2025, to Mar 30, 2025

Desert View

• Desert View Trading Post and ice cream and coffee shop, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Desert View Watchtower and store, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the last tower access tickets given out at 4 pm.
• The Desert View Deli and Market, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Desert View gas station (24 hours)-pay at pump only

Please visit the Grand Canyon National Park website for a complete list of closures and available amenities.

• Grand Canyon Valentine’s graphics (NPS Files/C. Kraus)
• Painting by Cristoff Keyonnie, Diné visual artist (Photo courtesy of C. Keyonnie)
• Broken rock wall near Yavapai Geology Museum on Feb. 10 (NPS Photo)
• A sprite high in the atmosphere (Photo by Stephen Hummel)
• Sam Harvey, South Rim Patrol (Photo courtesy of S. Harvey)
• Grand Canyon Valentine’s graphic (NPS File/C. Kraus)