The Canyonlands Field Institute, an outdoor-education nonprofit association located in Moab, is a fantastic resource for exploring the outdoors and learning a thing or two while you're at it. ---

The Institute has two upcoming trips that could make for a great weekend out of the city. A two-day trip offered April 26-28 is ideal for archaeology buffs. The trip comprises a tour of Cedar Mesa and Comb Ridge, with guides trained in natural history and archaeology who will bring you up to speed on developments in these fields in the area. The trip includes a two-night stay and meals for the duration of the program at the Recapture Lodge in Bluff.

Another trip in late April will give guests an opportunity to explore the Navajo Mountain area and learn about present-day and historical Diné (Navajo) culture. With two Diné guides, guests will take daily hikes from base camp, explore the local landscapes, view canyon rock art and visit Diné families. Additionally, the trip will provide background on the area's geological and ecological history.

Kathleen Curry and Geoff Griffin write regularly about their treks near and far in City Weekly and host the weekly Travel Brigade Radio Show. Follow them on Twitter @TravelBrigade.