Field Trips

PLEASE NOTE: Each Scientific Field Trip participant MUST sign an Accident Waiver and Release of Liability Form prior to trip departure. An Acrobat pdf or Microsoft Word version of the form may be downloaded and printed from the US-IALE 2004 website or a hardcopy may be requested from Onsite Meeting Registration staff or trip leaders.

We strongly urge you to read the Important Notes on enrollment, cancellation, and logistics that accompany the detailed descriptions of Scientific Trips in the Preliminary Program. The deadline for registering for these activities is Tuesday, February 24, 2004. Should your plans change, US-IALE 2004 Meeting Staff will allow you to cancel if you do so in accordance with our Cancellation Policy. US-IALE reserves the right to cancel any trip for which the minimum registration is not reached. Updates on filled or cancelled activities will be posted on the US-IALE 2004 Meeting website.

*Note that the following field trips have been cancelled. Those people who had signed up for the cancelled field trips will be contacted with details about their refund.

Nevada Test Site
Hoover Dam / Lake Mead Tour
Las Vegas Wetlands Tour
Valley of Fire Tour
Death Valley
Bryce Canyon
Grand Canyon

April 1 Half Day Trips

Red Rock National Conservation Area

The unique geologic features, plants and animals of Red Rock Canyon NCA represent some of the best examples of the Mojave Desert. Scant rainfall and scarce permanent water, along with desiccating winds and high temperatures make this a harsh environment for plants and wildlife, yet a surprising number of plants and animals inhabit the Red Rock Canyon NCA. Its deep sandstone canyons provide a perennial water supply, cool temperatures and a wide variety of vegetation which serves as ideal habitat for many animal and plant species. In fact, over 100 bird species, 45 mammal, 20 species of lizards, 25 species of snakes and two species of turtles and tortoises have been identified within the conservation area.

Departs on Thursday, April 1 at 12:00 PM; Returns at 5:00 PM. Fee includes transportation, box lunch, beverages, park admission. $40.00 (Minimum 10, Maximum 25)

Walking Tour of Las Vegas Strip

Las Vegas is best experienced on foot. From the Pyramid at one end of the strip to the Stratosphere tower on the other end. Enjoy this half day journey with a guide and a group.

Departs on Thursday, April 1 at 12:00 PM; Returns at 5:00 PM. Lunch is at your own expense. Free (Minimum 10, Maximum 25)

Mount Charleston/Spring Mountains

Mount Charleston in the Spring Mountain Range is located west of Las Vegas. The area contains five eco-zones ranging from the Southern Desert Shrub zone to the Pseudo-Alpine zone. Elevation ranges from 4,500 feet to 11,918 feet on the Charleston Peak (one of the highest peaks in Nevada). This high mountain country is a green jewel in the southern Nevada sun, providing escape from the summer desert heat and a refreshing contrast to the lights and sounds of the city of Las Vegas. This mountains, forested environment is unique with no similar environment within hundreds of miles.

Departs on Thursday, April 1 at 12:00 PM; Returns at 5:00 PM. Fee includes transportation, box lunch, beverages, and interpretive tour. $40.00 (Minimum 10, Maximum 25)

April 3 Full Day Trip

Colorado River Canoe/KayakTrip

Paddle your own canoe (2- or 3-person) or kayak (2-person) down the Lower Colorado River from the base of the mighty Hoover Dam to Willow Beach, Arizona. Throughout the day the group will see unique and hidden places such as the Sauna Cave, Gold Strike Canyon, Lone Palm Canyon, Emerald Cave and many other treats. Some creatures you may see are Big Horn Sheep, Bald Eagles, Coyotes, Red Tail Hawks, wild Burros and more. One other very popular attraction along the river is the many natural hot springs and hot waterfalls that hide in the canyons. You will have ample time to enjoy a relaxing soak while on your scenic journey!

Departs on Saturday, April 3 at 6:00 AM; Returns at 7 PM. Fee includes transportation to/from river, box lunch, beverages, river transportation, and interpretive tour. $100.00. (Minimun 10, Maximum 15 - Closed (maximum reached))