The Intrepid Foundation Returns to the Grand Canyon for Third Annual Fundraising Trek, Welcomes REI Co-Op, Athletic Brewing, and Adventurer Alex Haraus as New Partners

The Intrepid Foundation — the non-profit arm of Intrepid Travel, a global leader in responsible travel — announced the return of its annual fundraising trek through the Grand Canyon, taking place October 13-17, 2026. Now in its third year, the trek is organized through The Intrepid Foundation in partnership with the Grand Canyon Conservancy, the official non-profit partner of Grand Canyon National Park, with logistical support from Wildland Trekking.

This year’s trek welcomes new partners, REI Co-op and Athletic Brewing Company, as well as adventurer and environmentalist Alex Haraus, joining The Intrepid Foundation in the effort to raise $75,000 for the Conservancy’s work protecting and preserving one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

A small group of nine hikers will trek from the north to south rim alongside two professional Grand Canyon Conservancy guides, learning about the park’s history and geology while camping under the stars. Because The Intrepid Foundation covers all administrative and operational costs, 100% of funds raised go directly to the conservancy, supporting Indigenous communities connected to the park, wildlife and ecosystem preservation, and visitor experience programs.

“The Grand Canyon Conservancy partnership is one I’m especially proud of,” said Matt Berna, Senior Vice President, North America at Intrepid. “Now, more than ever, national parks need our support. The devastating North Rim wildfire last year underscores the importance of funding conservation efforts, visiting responsibly, and standing behind the people who protect these parks. Getting to hike alongside Conservancy guides and see their work up close is a powerful reminder of what’s at stake. And I’m very proud that every dollar we raise goes straight back into protecting this place for the people who come after us.”

“Grand Canyon is a place where people come to heal, reconnect, and experience the profound well-being that nature can inspire,” said Liz Silkes, CEO of Grand Canyon Conservancy. “We’re incredibly grateful to partner with organizations like Intrepid Travel, REI Co-op, and Athletic Brewing that recognize the transformative power of this extraordinary landscape. Their support helps ensure that future generations can continue to find inspiration, renewal, and connection at Grand Canyon while protecting the park’s natural and cultural treasures.”

“Grand Canyon National Park is one of the country’s most iconic and inspiring landscapes, and a crown jewel of our public lands,” said Alex Boian, Director of Government and Community Affairs for REI Co-op. “As a longtime advocate for the stewardship of this remarkable place, REI is proud to support efforts that help protect and preserve it for future generations. We’re honored to continue that commitment alongside The Intrepid Foundation, Athletic Brewing, and Alex Haraus.”

“The passion for maintaining trails and protecting outdoor space has been a part of our company’s DNA since day one,” said Cara Wilson, Impact Manager at Athletic Brewing Company. “Through our Two For The Trails grant program, we’ve invested over $8 million since 2018, and we are thrilled to support this important fundraising effort to help revitalize the trail systems in the Grand Canyon.”

The Grand Canyon is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage site, but climate change and aridification are affecting the park’s water sources, threatening fish species and fragile habitats. Through The Intrepid Foundation, donations to Grand Canyon Conservancy support the elevation of Indigenous voices, the restoration of wildlife habitat along the Colorado River, the preservation of dark skies and historic structures, and the maintenance of backcountry trails.

The partnership between The Intrepid Foundation and Grand Canyon Conservancy comes at a critical moment for the National Park System. America’s national parks attracted more than 330 million visitors last year and generated over $56 billion in economic output, yet the National Park Service lost more than 24% of its permanent workforce — over 4,000 staff — since January 2025. Parks are being asked to do more with dramatically less. Against that backdrop, The Intrepid Foundation’s work with Grand Canyon Conservancy is one direct way to channel support into protecting these landscapes for future generations.

Those interested in joining The Intrepid Foundation, REI, and Athletic Brewing Company’s efforts can contribute directly at grand-canyon-conservancy-fundraising-trek-2026.raiselysite.com.