- Havasu Falls is such a popular spot to visit in Grand Canyon that visitors must make reservations ahead of time.
- The area of Havasupai is home to a Native American tribe, so keep to the trails and don’t litter.
- Havasu Falls is a 10-mile hike from the parking lot in each direction, so dress appropriately and be prepared.
- The falls are actually a series of five waterfalls in close proximity, one of which is accessible by a branching trail that leads ultimately to the Colorado River.
- Certain conservation guidelines and safety precautions will help ensure that your visit to Havasupai is a positive experience for both you and the land.
Hidden deep in the arid, orange desert rock of the Grand Canyon of Arizona is a lush, verdant oasis with a group of blue-green waterfalls called Havasupai Falls. So popular is this area with visitors from near and far that reservations are required in order to visit.
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Those who do get the chance to come are in for a 10-mile hike each way through the home territory of the Havasupai tribe, who still live in the Supai village close by. Havasupai Falls is actually a group of Grand Canyon waterfalls: Beaver Falls, Fifty Foot Falls, Havasu Falls, Mooney Falls, and Navaho Falls.
Trails to Havasu Falls
While reaching Havasupai Falls is a workout for sure, it’s at least easy to find your way. The trails are well-worn and well-marked. The trail along Havasu Creek from Hualapai Hilltop parking lot to Supai Lodge is 8 miles, and the trails from there to the Havasu Falls Campground is 2 miles. That makes the total distance between the parking lot and Havasu Falls 10 miles.
There’s a second Grand Canyon waterfall, Mooney Falls, you can explore while you’re out here as well. To get there, you take the first trail to Supai Lodge. Then, you hike a different trail only half a mile long to Mooney Falls. From here, the Colorado River is only another 8-mile hike away. Add this to your itinerary if you fly to the Grand Canyon.
Planning to Visit Havasupai Falls?
In order to visit Havasupai and hike to the falls, you must make a reservation. This is done to protect the fragile landscape by limiting the number of visitors who can be on the land at any one time.
Day hiking is not permitted on the reservation. In addition, a fee is collected in order to maintain the land. Currently, the fee is $50 per person plus a 10% tax and a $10 environment care fee.
Once you pay your fee, keep your ticket handy as checkpoints exist throughout the trail where you may be asked to present it.
Things to Know When Hiking Havasupai
When hiking Havasupai, there are a few guidelines and safety precautions to keep in mind. Be aware that Havasu Creek and Falls are situated on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Therefore, be respectful of the land you’re hiking, and keep from straying from the trails or tossing litter.
Another reason to keep to the path is that it protects you from the flash flooding to which this area of Grand Canyon waterfalls is susceptible. If you stray from the trail, you put yourself and others at risk should such an event occur.
Remember that you’re in for a long, strenuous hike when visiting Havasupai, so be well-hydrated and make sure you’re in the proper physical condition for such an excursion. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you along with the necessary hiking accessories and safety gear like boots, rain protection, and a first-aid kit.
