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Havasu Falls in the Havasupai Reservation

Supai, Arizona

4.7/5
based on 23 reviews

Details

Distance

10.4 miles

Elevation Gain

1647 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jason Hatfield

Havasu Falls will take you on a trek to an oasis of cool blue water and thundering falls deep in the Havasupai Reservation.

The Havasupai Reservation is a remote area just outside Grand Canyon National Park, full of blue-green water and dramatic waterfalls.  Despite being an extremely isolated location, camping in the canyon is overwhelmingly popular and reservations are required. On popular weekends you will be sharing the campgrounds with hundreds of others but shoulder seasons can bring some respite. 

The trail to Supai Village starts at Hualapai Hilltop and is downhill the entire way. There is little cover, so lots of water and an early start is recommended; the way back will be even tougher. Once you reach the village you will pick up your permits and maps, any items needed from the small market, and continue another 2 miles to the campgrounds.

After setting up camp, Havasu Falls is a short trip back up the trail and your best bet after a long day of hiking. The following day you can spend time exploring Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls, and the surrounding canyon down to the Colorado River; the full hike is 16 miles round-trip. After Mooney Falls the trail is much more rugged and includes multiple water crossings and some rock scrambling. If you have your camera with you I recommend waterproof protection while hiking in the deeper parts. 

Please be mindful on this trip and make sure you pack out whatever you pack in. Also please be cognizant of animal safety if you choose to use assistance on your hike in. 

Here is a great guide for everything you need to know for your trip to Havasupai.

Here are some of the key attractions along the trek:

Beaver Falls

Mooney Falls

Hidden Falls

Navajo Falls

Confluence of the Colorado River and Havasu Creek

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    Features

    Camping
    Photography
    Backpacking
    Hiking
    River
    Scenic
    Waterfall
    Swimming Hole

    Reviews

    As others have said, it's really hard to articulate how mind blowing this place is. The hike in and out may be long, but it wasn't too bad. In the summer months, leave super early to avoid the head (think 3AM or so). Also, remember some cash, the tacos on town hit the spot when you get there after the hike in!

    Overall the hike in and out isn't too rough, just boring until you get closer to Supai. I hiked it in the fall and the temps were reasonable in the 70s and low 80s, not so sure I would enjoy it in the summer. The campground can get pretty packed depending when you go so be prepared to share the amazing views with a few hundred other people.

    Did this hike a couple years back with my family, and completely loved it. Sleeping right next to the river, and spending the hot days in the clear water made the very hot hike out at the end worth it.

    Leave No Trace

    Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

    Nearby

    Confluence of the Colorado River and Havasu Creek

    Mooney Falls

    Beaver Falls

    Navajo Falls

    Hidden Falls in the Havasupai Reservation

    Thunder River Loop