Field Trips

Arches

Field trips are one of the perks of taking geology classes at Gustavus! Almost every class has a day-long, weekend or week-long trip so you can get out and see the world. If you haven't spent much time in the outdoors, we will help you learn how to set up tents, cook meals and do outdoor geology in a safe and supportive environment. We have all the gear and equipment students need to be comfortable and safe exploring new places.

Geology field trips may also take place during spring break, and some geology majors participate in summer-long field experiences in Minnesota or elsewhere around the country. Some semester study abroad programs offer opportunities for geology majors, and the department allows appropriate coursework from approved international programs to apply toward the major. On special occasions, a Geology prof leads a January "interm" trip to Hawaii, the Caribbean or elsewhere.

Recent and upcoming geology field trips

  • Spring Break 2022: Geology of Utah and New Mexico (Prof. Triplett)
  • Spring Break 2020 and 2021: (Cancelled due to COVID)
  • Spring Break 2019: Geology of the southern Appalachians (Prof. Bartley)
  • Spring Break 2018: Geology of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks (Prof. McFadden)
  • Spring Break 2017: Geology of Big Bend National Park and Carlsbad Caverns (Prof. Welsh)
  • Spring Break 2016: Geology of West Texas and New Mexico (Prof. Bartley)
  • Spring Break 2015: Geology of Utah and New Mexico (Prof. Triplett)
  • Spring Break 2014: Geology of Big Bend National Park and Carlsbad Caverns (Prof. Welsh)
Arches arches Rock arch in Arches National Park  Red rock canyon, Canyonlands National Park Student in limestone quarry, southeastern Minnesota Students in cave with naturalist, southeastern Minnesota Student by tall waterfall in Hawaii Student by coastal cliff with beach, Hawaii Rio Grande Lava streams at night, Hawaii Basalt cliffs, Hawaii Reservoir, southeastern US Students in mountains, Texas Rock butte, Texas Lake in Denver