The Grand Canyon is one of the most beautiful natural landmarks in the United States, showcasing incredible rock formations, towering cliffs, the rushing Colorado River, and colorful rock layers. As you hike the canyon’s rocky trails and raft down the river, it’s impossible not to think about the millions of years of history that have taken place within these canyon walls. Keep reading to discover five things you didn’t know about the history of the Grand Canyon.

1. The Grand Canyon is home to some of the oldest exposed rock on the planet.

The history of the Grand Canyon began billions of years ago. You can find the oldest section of the Grand Canyon near the bottom of the Inner Gorge; these are called the Vishnu Basement Rocks. These rocks formed over 1.7 billion years ago as magma hardened and added to this region, formerly a volcanic ocean chain.

While the rock layers of the Grand Canyon contain about 2 billion years of history, the canyon itself was formed between 5 and 6 million years ago. As the Colorado River snaked through the rock layers, it created this incredible natural landmark over time.

2. Humans settled in the Grand Canyon at least 12,000 years ago

During the last ice age, prehistoric humans, along with sloths, mammoths, and other large mammals, settled in and around the canyon. Archaeologists have discovered human artifacts dating back 12,000 years, including large stone spear points.

Throughout the Grand Canyon’s history, the area has been home to several Native American tribes, like the Ancestral Puebloans, Paiute, Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi tribes. More recently, the Havasupai people have claimed this area as their ancestral home and have lived here for about 800 years.

3. The first Europeans didn’t find the Grand Canyon until the 1540s

Spanish explorers were led to the region with the help of the Hopi people in the 1540s, a pivotal moment in Grand Canyon history.
It wasn’t until 300 years later that Joseph Christmas Ives, an American botanist, and explorer, mapped the region in 1858. On the same expedition, John Newberry became the first geologist to study the area. Ten years later, John Wesley Powell, an American explorer, created a more detailed map, specifically of the Colorado River.

4. Pioneers settled in the Grand Canyon in the 1880s

The first pioneers were attracted to the Grand Canyon due to the copper mining opportunities available in the region. However, they quickly realized that tourism was much more profitable. Tourism to the Grand Canyon increased after 1901 when a spur of the Sante Fe Railroad was completed, taking tourists from Flagstaff, Arizona, to Grand Canyon Village.

Oliver Lippincott was a Los Angeles photographer who made the daring decision to drive 70 miles from flagstaff to the
South Rim of the Grand Canyon. At the time, this journey was considered impossible by car and tourists went by train. He left in January of 1902 with a local guide and two reporters from the Los Angeles Herald. He drove a 1901 Toledo steam car, a car that used a boiler to heat water into steam which powered the pistons of the car. The journey was expected to only take 7 hours, instead, it took them two days.

5.The Grand Canyon became a national park in 1919

Three years after President Woodrow Wilson established the National Park Service, the Grand Canyon was declared a national park. During its first year as a national park, it attracted over 44,000 visitors. Today, this incredible park receives over 5 million guests every year.

Visit the Grand Canyon and Explore the Southwest

Immerse yourself in the history of the Grand Canyon and begin your own expedition of the Southwest with EXP Journeys. Charter a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon, river raft on the Colorado River, and explore the National Parks. Walk in the footsteps of the great explorers who risked their lives to discover territory once unknown. Contact us today to book your private, luxury, Southwest experience!

At more than 550,000 acres and 2,000+ miles of road, Vermejo is a private reserve unlike any other in the United States. Situated in Northern New Mexico, the stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and luxury accommodations make Vermejo one of our favorite “playgrounds” to push the bounds of what is possible.

In early June, EXP Journeys’ Partner and Lead Guide, Andrew Roberts, took three guests on a once-in-a-lifetime never-before-done journey that truly encompassed what EXP is all about.

With guests showing a passion for motorbikes, nature, and the open road, EXPerience Manager, Annik Boulva, was tasked with crafting a unique journey. “Vermejo seemed like the perfect destination for these guests”, says Boulva. “With a desire to ‘get away from it all’ while keeping the level of hospitality and luxury that our guests are accustomed to; we were able to combine the vast natural wonder of Vermejo Reserve with our luxury mobile tented camp and some of the incredible accommodations offered by Vermejo.”

Riding more than 60 miles per day through sometimes rugged and technical terrain, the group kicked the trip off with a one-night stay at the Main Lodge for skills tests and to familiarize themselves with the bikes. The next morning, they set off for a 70-mile ride that included visiting old and now abandoned mining and logging towns, as well as wildlife sightings that included black bear, wild horses, elk, and herds of bison.

The day’s ride wrapped up with some welcomed smiles from the team at EXP Journeys’ luxury mobile tented camp, which had set up camp deep in the Vermejo wilderness. Tonight, our guests were treated to a luxury life under the stars in the remote wilderness.
After a delicious breakfast at camp, the guests got back on their bikes following the Crow River to the southern border of the reserve.

After exploring an old gold mine and challenging themselves to some technical riding, they returned to camp early to enjoy frisbee golf, cornhole, and blow darts with the camp team. Even with the surroundings and excitement of each day, the guests hailed their time playing games with the camp team as one of their favorite memories.

The following morning, our guests bid farewell to the camp team and rode off along the Canadian River towards the Vermejo River. The focus for today was animal and ecology conservation, and the incredible work being done by the Turner Endangered Species Fund (TESF) and Turner Biodiversity Divisions (TBD). Our guests were given a firsthand look into the conservation efforts to save the cutthroat trout by meeting with conservationists, learning how these efforts were being executed, and seeing the process in action. Gaining a greater understanding of these conservation efforts and the positive outcomes to the region proved to be yet another highlight for our guests.

This evening, we traded a luxury camp for a luxury lodge – Costilla Lodge. Built from timber and stone directly sourced from the reserve, Costilla Lodge sits at an elevation of 10,000 feet with stunning views of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain Range. For their two nights at the lodge, our clients were the only guests, having the rustic luxury and history all to themselves.

For the last full day in the high country, we rode with our guests to the ‘Top of the World’ where you can see nearly the whole reserve. Our guests enjoyed cooling off in the alpine lakes, hiking the rocky landscape, and fly fishing in the rivers, while looking far off into the distance at the curve of the Earth.

The following morning, we rode with our guests down the mountain trails to the southwest corner of the reserve where, once again, our luxury mobile tented camp was waiting, this time situated outside an old cowboy homestead. Our guests enjoying glimpsing into a way of life long forgotten, but not gone. For a final night, we slept under the stars, bathed in the sounds of the wild, the smells brought by the wind, and the crisp air of the southwest.

As experienced luxury travel hosts, your EXP Journeys guides know a thing or two about creating a memorable and fun travel experience for you and your guests. From scouting awe-inspiring hikes to securing permits and even coordinating logistics on your itinerary, there are many pieces of the puzzle that go into planning and providing lasting memories on your luxury travel vacation – not the least of which is where and what you should have to eat on your adventure! Lunch is oftentimes one of the most cherished and enjoyable aspects of your trip as it provides a space for reflection and community while ensuring that you are properly fueled for the next step on your excursion.

Most Remote Lunch Locations

From spruce-fir forests on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to secluded beaches on the shores of Lake Powell, EXP Journeys is well versed in choosing and creating luxury picnic lunches in some of the most beautiful natural spaces in the country. Imagine the thrill of rounding a bend after exploring an isolated slot canyon to discover a carefully curated, private picnic lunch awaiting you! Or how about having your own private helicopter deliver you to a tantalizing spread of local, fresh offerings awaiting you on a pristine glacier?! Perhaps these examples will help you understand the magic that remote dining can bring to your luxury vacation.

How Luxury Dining is brought into Nature

Anyone familiar with high end gastronomical presentation knows that appearance and small touches go a long way to elevating your traditional dining experience to one of luxury and class. Sourcing fresh ingredients, finding the perfect dining spot and combining these aspects into one that not only complements but elevates the natural surroundings is a key aspect of the luxury picnic lunch. When your EXP guides work their magic with a little help from Mother Nature, you will be amazed at how a private picnic lunch can feel like so much more.

How to setup the Perfect Picnic Lunch

A luxury picnic lunch requires careful consideration and planning to ensure that the chosen space is one that accommodates all guests involved while blending seamlessly into the surrounding environment. When choosing a spot for your private picnic lunch, consider factors such as shade and sun exposure, a convenient escape should rain or other inclement weather impose on your meal and a location that offers serenity and an aesthetically pleasing natural backdrop. As for the food itself, consider locally sourced options with a tie to the surrounding landscape and go heavy on options such as fruit and vegetables as the vibrant colors and freshness of these items will please those looking for a nutritious meal while not leaving them filling heavy or sleepy on their post-lunch hike!

Let Us Help!

We hope that these short tips have helped you to have a better understanding of what goes into creating the perfect remote dining experience. However, should you prefer to leave the planning and logistics to the experts so that you can just relax and enjoy your time together with family and friends, EXP Journeys will be happy to handle all the details. Reach out now to find out more about how EXP Journeys can deliver a concise and curated itinerary that will feed not only your appetite for delicious cuisine but your craving for beauty and luxury as well!

As experienced luxury travel hosts, your EXP Journeys guides know a thing or two about creating a memorable and fun travel experience for you and your guests. From scouting awe-inspiring hikes to securing permits and even coordinating logistics on your itinerary, there are many pieces of the puzzle that go into planning and providing lasting memories on your luxury travel vacation – not the least of which is where and what you should have to eat on your adventure! Lunch is oftentimes one of the most cherished and enjoyable aspects of your trip as it provides a space for reflection and community while ensuring that you are properly fueled for the next step on your excursion.

Most Remote Lunch Locations

From spruce-fir forests on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to secluded beaches on the shores of Lake Powell, EXP Journeys is well versed in choosing and creating luxury picnic lunches in some of the most beautiful natural spaces in the country. Imagine the thrill of rounding a bend after exploring an isolated slot canyon to discover a carefully curated, private picnic lunch awaiting you! Or how about having your own private helicopter deliver you to a tantalizing spread of local, fresh offerings awaiting you on a pristine glacier?! Perhaps these examples will help you understand the magic that remote dining can bring to your luxury vacation.

How Luxury Dining is brought into Nature

Anyone familiar with high end gastronomical presentation knows that appearance and small touches go a long way to elevating your traditional dining experience to one of luxury and class. Sourcing fresh ingredients, finding the perfect dining spot and combining these aspects into one that not only complements but elevates the natural surroundings is a key aspect of the luxury picnic lunch. When your EXP guides work their magic with a little help from Mother Nature, you will be amazed at how a private picnic lunch can feel like so much more.

How to setup the Perfect Picnic Lunch

A luxury picnic lunch requires careful consideration and planning to ensure that the chosen space is one that accommodates all guests involved while blending seamlessly into the surrounding environment. When choosing a spot for your private picnic lunch, consider factors such as shade and sun exposure, a convenient escape should rain or other inclement weather impose on your meal and a location that offers serenity and an aesthetically pleasing natural backdrop. As for the food itself, consider locally sourced options with a tie to the surrounding landscape and go heavy on options such as fruit and vegetables as the vibrant colors and freshness of these items will please those looking for a nutritious meal while not leaving them filling heavy or sleepy on their post-lunch hike!

Let Us Help!

We hope that these short tips have helped you to have a better understanding of what goes into creating the perfect remote dining experience. However, should you prefer to leave the planning and logistics to the experts so that you can just relax and enjoy your time together with family and friends, EXP Journeys will be happy to handle all the details. Reach out now to find out more about how EXP Journeys can deliver a concise and curated itinerary that will feed not only your appetite for delicious cuisine but your craving for beauty and luxury as well!

As experienced luxury travel hosts, your EXP Journeys guides know a thing or two about creating a memorable and fun travel experience for you and your guests. From scouting awe-inspiring hikes to securing permits and even coordinating logistics on your itinerary, there are many pieces of the puzzle that go into planning and providing lasting memories on your luxury travel vacation – not the least of which is where and what you should have to eat on your adventure! Lunch is oftentimes one of the most cherished and enjoyable aspects of your trip as it provides a space for reflection and community while ensuring that you are properly fueled for the next step on your excursion.

Most Remote Lunch Locations

From spruce-fir forests on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon to secluded beaches on the shores of Lake Powell, EXP Journeys is well versed in choosing and creating luxury picnic lunches in some of the most beautiful natural spaces in the country. Imagine the thrill of rounding a bend after exploring an isolated slot canyon to discover a carefully curated, private picnic lunch awaiting you! Or how about having your own private helicopter deliver you to a tantalizing spread of local, fresh offerings awaiting you on a pristine glacier?! Perhaps these examples will help you understand the magic that remote dining can bring to your luxury vacation.

How Luxury Dining is brought into Nature

Anyone familiar with high end gastronomical presentation knows that appearance and small touches go a long way to elevating your traditional dining experience to one of luxury and class. Sourcing fresh ingredients, finding the perfect dining spot and combining these aspects into one that not only complements but elevates the natural surroundings is a key aspect of the luxury picnic lunch. When your EXP guides work their magic with a little help from Mother Nature, you will be amazed at how a private picnic lunch can feel like so much more.

How to setup the Perfect Picnic Lunch

A luxury picnic lunch requires careful consideration and planning to ensure that the chosen space is one that accommodates all guests involved while blending seamlessly into the surrounding environment. When choosing a spot for your private picnic lunch, consider factors such as shade and sun exposure, a convenient escape should rain or other inclement weather impose on your meal and a location that offers serenity and an aesthetically pleasing natural backdrop. As for the food itself, consider locally sourced options with a tie to the surrounding landscape and go heavy on options such as fruit and vegetables as the vibrant colors and freshness of these items will please those looking for a nutritious meal while not leaving them filling heavy or sleepy on their post-lunch hike!

Let Us Help!

We hope that these short tips have helped you to have a better understanding of what goes into creating the perfect remote dining experience. However, should you prefer to leave the planning and logistics to the experts so that you can just relax and enjoy your time together with family and friends, EXP Journeys will be happy to handle all the details. Reach out now to find out more about how EXP Journeys can deliver a concise and curated itinerary that will feed not only your appetite for delicious cuisine but your craving for beauty and luxury as well!

EXP Journeys prides itself on elevating the standard for luxury travel. That is why we work closely with award-winning Chef Shon Foster and his team to ensure that every detail of a guest’s culinary experience reflects the decades of technique and execution the EXP team brings to bear. In this edition of the EXP Blog, Chef Shon shares some of the techniques and insights he has learned over the years to help you create the perfect backcountry dessert – the s’more. Whether you are enjoying one of these delicious treats in an EXP Journeys’ luxury camp or in your own backyard; Chef Shon’s advice will give you a better understanding of, and excitement for, these classic backcountry staples!

First Steps First

Let us get down to the heart of the matter here – chocolate and marshmallow. One of the most popular dessert combinations known to man, these two ingredients can be found in classic desserts such as brownies, cakes, hot chocolate and even the iconic Moon Pie. There is just something about the rich flavor of the chocolate mixing with the melted goodness of the marshmallow that makes the tastebuds come alive. Some prefer double chocolate while others swear by well done marshmallows. Chef Shon recommends trying a few varieties of chocolate and marshmallow to find your favorite combination.

The Middle

Let us get down to the heart of the matter here – chocolate and marshmallow. One of the most popular dessert combinations known to man, these two ingredients can be found in classic desserts such as brownies, cakes, hot chocolate and even the iconic Moon Pie. There is just something about the rich flavor of the chocolate mixing with the melted goodness of the marshmallow that makes the tastebuds come alive. Some prefer double chocolate while others swear by well done marshmallows. Chef Shon recommends trying a few varieties of chocolate and marshmallow to find your favorite combination.

Coming together

Now that we have our basic ingredients, it is time to turn up the heat! No cause for concern if you do not have a campfire at your disposal because you are stuck inside; s’mores can be enjoyed almost anywhere as long as you have some form of a heat source. Innovative, indoor s’more artists use a wide variety of techniques to toast their marshmallows with some of the more popular options including roasting over a gas stove, inside a microwave or even using a miniature hibachi. And don’t be fooled into thinking that the marshmallow is the only ingredient that can benefit from a little heat exposure! While relaxing around the campfire at your EXP backcountry camp, you may see Chef Shon prepping his s’more station by warming up the graham cracker and chocolate before adding in the marshmallow. This technique causes the chocolate to begin melting which not only helps prevent the cracker from breaking but increases the gooey-ness factor!!

Tips and Tricks

The EXPerts at EXP Journeys have roasted literally hundreds of marshmallows over the years so we know a thing or two about working our way around a s’more stick! While modern stainless steel versions exist, there is something special and authentic about searching through the forest to find the perfect stick for your own personal creation. Try to source a stick that is free of bark and leaves while being long enough for you to comfortably stand away from your fire source. Some people even enjoy finding a limb that forks at the end so you can roast more than one marshmallow at a time! Regardless of whether your s’more stick has one or multiple roasting ends, taking the time to whittle down the end to a smooth point will make things go a bit smoother when it is time to take your marshmallow off of the stick.

One of the most important factors to consider when making your s’more is how you like your marshmallow cooked. No judgment here whether you like a marshmallow to just casually walk by the fire or if you would rather roast your confection until it resembles a chunk of charcoal. To each their own and hopefully there will be extras to share; just be sure to slowly rotate your marshmallow as you roast it so that it cooks gradually and evenly. If your marshmallow happens to go up in a blaze, bring the marshmallow slowly towards your mouth and gently blow out the flame. Resist the temptation to wave that s’more stick around in the air in an attempt to stifle the fire as that hot, gooey, sugary, gelatin concoction is much better to remain on the end of your stick rather than taking flight and landing somewhere other than in between your graham crackers! You definitely don’t want your marshmallow to go airborne and land in the dirt or on your friend…

Now that your marshmallow is roasted to perfection, it is time to assemble your creation. Years of trial and error have taught Chef Shon and his team that this is a task best performed by two people. One person should hold a graham cracker with the chocolate face side up while the roaster gently places the marshmallow on top. Then, place the other graham cracker on top and squeeze down while pulling out the roasting stick. Take care at this point to twist your s’more stick slightly as you pull to ensure that all that gooey goodness stays in between your crackers instead of clinging to the stick. Finally, snap the two cracker grahams in half as you squeeze down on the marshmallow. This will help seal the sides closest to your hand and prevent leakage while lifting and aerating the toasty marshmallow interior.

Your traditional s’more consists of graham crackers, marshmallow and chocolate. But there are more than a few ways to take your campfire treat to the next level. Some of our favorite upgrades include using Ghirardelli dark chocolate instead of Hershey’s, Oreos instead of graham crackers and for our vegan friends – banana slices in place of marshmallows. Past guest favorites include Nutella, peanut butter, honey and even Starburst! Whatever your preference, let your creative juices fly.

If all of this sounds great but just a little too complicated and you would rather enjoy the campfire and stargaze while the professionals assemble and deliver your backcountry baked goods, reach out to us now! The EXPerts at EXP Journeys are trained and thrilled to handle the details and desserts for your next luxury vacation.

Now that your marshmallow is roasted to perfection, it is time to assemble your creation. Years of trial and error have taught the EXPerts at EXP Journeys that this is a task best performed by two people. One person should hold a graham cracker with the chocolate face side up while the marshmallow roaster gently places the marshmallow on top. Then, place the other graham cracker on top and squeeze down while the roaster pulls out the roasting stick being careful to twist slightly to ensure that all that gooey goodness stays in between your crackers instead of clinging to the stick. Finally, snap the two cracker grahams in half as you squeeze down on the marshmallow. This will help seal the sides closest to your hand and prevent leakage while lifting and aerating the toasty marshmallow interior.

Your traditional s’more consists of graham crackers, marshmallow and chocolate. But there are more than a few ways to take your campfire treat to the next level. Some of our favorite upgrades include using Ghirardelli dark chocolate instead of Hershey’s, Oreos instead of graham crackers and for our vegan friends, banana slices in place of marshmallows. Past guest favorites include Nutella, peanut butter and even honey. Whatever your preference, let your creative juices fly.

If all of this sounds great but just a little too complicated and you would rather enjoy the campfire and stargaze while the professionals assemble and deliver your backcountry baked goods, reach out to us now! The EXPerts at EXP Journeys are trained and thrilled to handle the details and desserts for your next luxury vacation.

Are you ready for an adventure like no other? Look no further than Ultima Thule Lodge; nestled deep in the heart of the largest protected landmass on earth – the Wrangell St. Elias wilderness. Surrounded by a protected area larger than Switzerland and 100 miles from anywhere, guests to this remote and exclusive destination arrive by bush plane and experience a truly unique and quintessential Alaskan experience.

Ultima Thule takes its name from the ancient Greeks who used the term to refer to the unknown areas that existed beyond the boundaries and capabilities of their maps and navigational instruments. A more fitting name perhaps does not exist as Wrangell St. Elias is pure wilderness with no formal road or trail systems. Once you set foot on this wild and untamed terra firma, you as well will feel as if you have found yourself in uncharted territory.

The Claus Family and the History of Ultima Thule Lodge in Alaska

When you think of Alaska, you might imagine rugged wilderness, glaciers, and wild animals. For the Claus family, these imaginations are reality and Alaska is home. The Claus family has been operating Ultima Thule Lodge for over three decades, offering visitors an unparalleled luxury wilderness experience in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness. But how did this all come about? Let’s take a quick peek into the history of the Claus family and Ultima Thule Lodge.

Ultima Thule traces its roots back to the 1960’s when John and Eleanor Claus took advantage of the Homestead Act to purchase a 5 acre tract of land tucked cozily between the towering cliffs of McColl Ridge and the banks of the Chitina River. Since that time, cabins have been built with native timber, the river has flooded, and children and grandchildren have been introduced to this land of promise and plenty.

In the 1980’s, John and Eleanor’s son, Paul, took his new bride to his parent’s land and it was there that they saw the potential to create a unique and exclusive destination that would showcase the best of what wild Alaska had to offer. Paul and his wife Donna decided to put down roots and began building the lodge that today serves as the heart and soul of Ultima Thule. The construction and upkeep of Ultima Thule Lodge was and is no easy feat. The remote location of the lodge means that everything has to be flown in by bush plane, including building materials, equipment, supplies, and even you!

The Claus family worked tirelessly to clear the land, lay the foundations, and build the lodge which was designed to blend ancient and modern design, using sustainable materials and renewable energy sources. Their efforts resulted in a lodge that is in harmony with the environment, not just another development in the wilderness. After years of hard work, the lodge opened its doors to visitors and it quickly became a popular destination for those looking for a luxury wilderness experience in Alaska. Even now, some four decades later, guests to this remarkable property are still met and hosted by the multi-generational family that calls this land home.

The Ultima Thule Experience

Imagine waking up and walking out to your cabin’s front porch to take in stunning views of the mighty Chitina River surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, while bison roam nearby and eagles soar overhead. As you look around your gracefully adorned cabin, you cannot help but imagine the time and effort that went into creating such a peaceful abode in the middle of nowhere. Miles away from the remotest hint of civilization, you have a true appreciation for the wilder side of Alaska and everything that an “off the grid” experience can mean to someone looking to truly escape from it all.

Only a handful of people at any one given time are lucky enough to get to experience the special touches that make Ultima Thule such a sought after destination. Whether you are enjoying a yoga session in the gathering yurt or letting your cares slip away in the wood fired sauna, you get the distinct impression that the experience is all yours to enjoy and relish.

While the cozy luxuriousness of Ultima Thule may whisper for you to stay, the expansive wilderness all around you beckons to be discovered. Consider going for a hike with your personal guide or even try your hand at mining for gold on the property! After, climb aboard one of Ultima Thule’s private bush planes and let Paul Claus, deemed the “King of Bush Pilots”, take you to some of Alaska’s most breathtaking destinations, including glaciers, mountains, and ice valleys. Fly over rolling tundra teeming with wildflowers and wildlife, soar over braided streams and land in one of the many jaw-dropping valleys carved by ancient rivers. The perspective from above affords unique and breathtaking views of a land that remains as primitive and undeveloped as almost anywhere in the world.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience an unparalleled luxury travel destination in Alaska. Contact EXP Journeys today to arrange your next vacation at Ultima Thule Lodge and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Did you know that the United States has a national mammal? Don’t beat yourself up if you did not know that obscure slice of American trivia; you have plenty of company. But it is true! In 2016, the lofty and prestigious bald eagle lost its claim as the only nationally designated animal to represent the land of the free. And joining its ranks? A colossal land animal who can trace its existence in the U.S. to prehistoric times. Read on to learn more about this compelling creature and how EXP Journeys can help you both get better acquainted.

No luxury vacation to Grand Teton or Yellowstone National Park is complete without spotting one of the Park’s most famous residents – the majestic American bison. Or is it a buffalo? Or maybe you heard a rancher talking about their herd of beefalo!? These questions come up frequently and you should not worry if you are a little confused. As always, your EXP guides are here to help educate, elucidate and entertain. So, let us get on with it, shall we?

Having lived on the North American continent for hundreds of thousands of years, bison share a rich and varied history and connection with the sacred land on which they call home. But, before we dive too deep into an exploration of the history and science behind these amazing animals, let’s get one thing straight – what do we call this creature?! Although you will hear both bison and buffalo used by a wide range of National Park visitors; technically the animals that we see scattered on the American plains are bison, not buffalo. Their scientific name after all is bison bison. You can blame the song ‘Home on the Range’ for much of the confusion regarding the nomenclature but some fault must also be assigned to the nearly 400 years of human history that has seen early explorers and modern day traveler alike mislabel this creature. At any rate, we can assure you that the bison (or buffalo) you see on your next luxury vacation do not care what you call them. However, an exploration of the science and background concerning these animals lends itself to a greater appreciation and protection of them of which we guarantee they will be most appreciative.

As both are long term residents, bison have a extensive history with the indigenous peoples of North America. Many tribes, such as the Sioux and the Cheyenne, considered the bison to be a sacred animal and had a deep spiritual and physical connection to it. The bison provided food, clothing, and shelter for these communities, and it played a crucial role in their culture and way of life.

Bison also played a crucial role in the ecology of the Great Plains. Giant herds of bison would migrate across the grasslands, and their grazing patterns helped to maintain the health of the grasses. By consuming woody plants and the insects who live on and around them, the bison helped to create a diverse ecosystem. So important were the bison in this process that they were considered to be a keystone species, meaning that many other animals in the ecosystem relied on them for survival.

Unfortunately, the arrival of European settlers in the 19th century brought about a change for the bison and their habitat. Hunting, both for commercial and subsistence purposes, drastically reduced their numbers. By the late 1800s, bison had been hunted to the brink of extinction. It is estimated that the population fell from an estimated 30-60 million in the early 1800s to less than 1000 by the late 1890s! Compounding this problem, the expansion of agriculture, fencing and railroads destroyed much of the bison’s habitat, leaving the animal without proper grazing land and food.

However, thanks to conservation efforts, the bison population has made a comeback. Today, there are an estimated 500,000 bison in North America, with about 20,000 of them living in national parks and nature preserves. These conservation efforts have also helped to restore the grasslands ecosystem that the bison depends on.

If this has piqued your interest and you are ready to learn more about the American bison while exploring their protected homes, reach out to us today! Whether you choose to call them bison or buffalo, visit them in the Grand Canyon or the Grand Tetons, the EXPerts at EXP Journeys will help craft the ultimate destination vacation for you.

EXP Journeys loves the national parks of the American West and for good reason. Bearing witness to Old Faithful erupting in the early morning hours as a bison grazes nearby or saying goodbye to the last rays of sunlight as they cast their spell over the beautiful sandstone spires of the Grand Canyon is enough to stir even the most stoic of souls. Observing these gifts of nature through the eyes of a young traveler experiencing them for the first time or perhaps during a special birthday or anniversary celebration is another kind of experience completely and one that EXP Guides will tell you is the best part of their jobs. It was the unique nature of these once-in-a-lifetime moments that first captivated EXP’s own Andrew Roberts at a young age and chartered a course that has steered his life direction ever since.

Andrew received his first glimpse at his ultimate life calling as a teenager in the deserts and mountains of New Mexico and since that time has been fortunate enough to guide adventure and luxury excursions in some of the most iconic locales on the planet. But, the west was where he first heard the siren song and it keeps hearkening him back. From the towering granite peaks of the Tetons to the yawning chasms carved by the mighty Colorado River, Andrew has seen and tasted enough of the guide life to fill volumes but he prefers to keep much of this to himself and instead let nature speak for herself. And speak she does – to the hundreds of clients who have witnessed her beauty and awe as Andrew stands back in the shadows, arms folded with a sly grin spreading cheek to cheek.

In a special edition of our handcrafted blog, Andrew takes us on an insider’s tour of a select few of his favorite locations. As a seasoned guide and co-founder of EXP Journeys, he understands that discerning guests want to see and experience the best that our national parks have to offer but that they also yearn for places of quiet reflection; synagogues of solace where they can commune with friends, family and the wild landscapes that surround them. Let’s tag along with Andrew and go exploring!

Yellowstone

“Lost Lake Trail is one of those hidden gems that people overlook when they are searching out the must-see sights in Yellowstone,” Andrew tells me as we stroll by a herd of bison grazing, napping and otherwise staring contentedly off into space in this section of United State’s first national park. Sure, the boardwalks in front of the Old Faithful Lodge showcase amazing geyser formations and the Lamar Valley is known as the ‘Serengeti of North America’ for good reason. Both deserve the accolades that millions of annual visitors who descend upon this corner of Northwest Montana heap upon them every year. But, there is something special about the feeling of having a little slice of this wonderland all to yourself, which is exactly what you will find on a hike on the Lost Lake Trail. Visitors who experience this pleasant path for the first time are amazed at the natural wonders that await them around every turn. Summer fields filled with wildflowers, ancient petrified trees and enormous views of Pleasant Valley await visitors while bears and moose occasionally turn their heads to listen to the sound of beavers slapping their tails or the distant hum of Lost Lake Falls. As I stand there and breathe in the air heavily perfumed with the scent of Douglas Fir, I cannot help but think that maybe Andrew is right – this is a hidden gem and maybe it is a good thing that the bigger attractions here in Yellowstone draw as many visitors as they do. That way, smaller places like this can hold on to a little bit of the wild nature that makes this park so remarkable in the first place.

Bryce Canyon

Venturing south, our journey takes us to a canyon that is not really a canyon and a night sky that is one of the darkest in North America. Bryce Canyon National Park sits in a relatively remote area of southern Utah and lays claim to the largest concentration of ‘hoodoos’ in the known world. For those unfamiliar, hoodoos are otherworldly rock formations created by a unique combination of weathering, wind, ice, rain and erosion that fill canyon-esque arenas that are known to science as amphitheaters. Our day finds us hiking around, under and sometimes literally through rock formations as Andrew leads us past otherworldly formations that bear names such as ‘Queen Victoria,’ ‘Tower Bridge’ and the especially popular ‘Thor’s Hammer.’ Later that evening, we mingle with guests and stroll past lavishly adorned canvas tents to the soothing glow of a small fire pit where we find people are roasting s’mores. As we eat, drink and laugh, Andrew remarks how lucky he is to be a living embodiment of EXP Journey’s mission – “to open up this amazing world and make every journey a once-in-a-lifetime experience.” Later that evening, I overhear the camp astronomer talking to a group of children while pointing out different constellations and he explains to the rapt listeners how each occupies constellation occupies its own unique space in the dark sky sanctuary above us. I smile, nod in understanding and feel that immense sense of gratitude and contentment that comes over people when they realize they are occupying exactly the space where they should be. It is in that moment that I silently understand that one of Andrew’s favorite places is not really a place at all – rather it is that experience, that once-in-a-lifetime experience that can only truly be felt when you are connected to nature and those around you while communing in these wild and special places.

Grand Canyon

The final stop on our list takes us into the largest contiguous Ponderosa pine forest in the world. Andrew loves this spot so much that he personally helps create custom luxury camps here with unobstructed views of what Theodore Roosevelt called “the one great sight which every American should see.” I would expand Teddy’s admonition beyond Americans alone to include anyone capable and so inclined. Millions and millions of people agree with me it seems as Grand Canyon National Park routinely bring masses from across the globe who come to experience and behold this breathtaking natural wonder of the world. Let the masses enjoy the view as they should. Andrew is taking us to a special place just 20 miles away from the throngs of people who crowd the trail along the South Rim to a place that seems much further and distant. The North Rim, as it is known, is effectively cut off from its southern counterpart and enjoys cooler temperatures in addition to only a fraction (about 1/10th) as many visitors as the rest of the park system. What this means for Andrew and his guests is that their hikes here are of a different variety. They share the trails with fewer people and more animals. Curious and beautiful creatures such as mule deer or the celebrated Kaibab squirrel. On a crisp, early fall morning, a small family enjoys a stunning sunrise all to themselves from the comfort of their private campsite before they all slowly venture into the warmth of their opulent dining tent, nestled in a secluded grove of fragrant pines. While Andrew gears up for another day of exploration, he can hear his guests chatting excitedly as they enjoy a leisurely breakfast, expertly prepared by their own on-site chef. Plates of pancakes, sizzling bacon, fresh fruit and pitchers of mimosas are passed around the table while their attentive camp staff looks after every last detail. We all savor a moment of silence acknowledging the fact that while we are in one of the most popular and heavily visited national parks in the country, this moment and this view of the canyon is ours and ours alone. For that moment, we think Mr. Roosevelt was right – everyone should see this majesty that spreads out before us. Just maybe not all at once and not all in the same spot.