We are visiting the Grand Canyon as part of a fly-drive holiday to Phoenix. We would like to spend a few days at the canyon, and perhaps join a group for an organised trek or tour, where we can learn about the geology and nature and so on. Do you have any ideas? Tom Anderson, London

Sunday Times travel expert, Richard Green, responds: You're definitely on the right track there. Many of the canyon's five million visitors a year miss out by passing through in a matter of hours, just driving from one busy viewpoint to the next. Better by far to join one of the many guided hikes that take you away from the hubbub of the lookouts, either to deserted areas of the rim, or descending into the canyon proper.

The Grand Canyon Field Institute (001 866 471 4435) offers a broad range of "classes" that are guided by experts, and focus on teaching visitors about canyon's rich natural and cultural heritage. You could do a "meet the canyon" day walk for £48pp, a day's yoga overlooking the void or a course on how best to capture the canyon, or if you are feeling very adventurous, there's a four-night trek along the Bright Angel and Kaibab trails right across the floor of the canyon from the south to the north rim, from £285pp. Too lazy or scared of heights? Don't worry, as there are plenty of mule-assisted treks to help with the difficult climbs and curves.

There are other local outfits offering guided days out or treks too, including the Museum of Northern Arizona (001 928-774-5213), Canyon Country Outback Tours (001 435 644 3807), and Canyon Rim Adventures (435-644-8512).

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