Havasu Falls Guide

Havasu Falls is a breathtaking waterfall located in the Grand Canyon in Arizona. The stunning blue-green water, set against the red rocks of the canyon, makes it a truly magical sight to see. Visiting Havasu Falls requires some planning ahead as the area is located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation.

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan a trip to Havasu Falls, including how to get there, the best time to visit, where to stay, what to pack, and more.

Getting There

Havasu Falls is located in the Havasupai Indian Reservation, which is about 64 miles northwest of Seligman, Arizona. The closest major airport is in Las Vegas, which is about a four-hour drive from the trailhead. From the trailhead, the only way to reach Havasu Falls is by foot.

If you plan to hike, you will need to start at Hualapai Hilltop, which is about a two-hour drive from Seligman. The hike is approximately 10 miles each way, and you will need to obtain a permit to access the reservation. Helicopter tours are available from Las Vegas and other nearby cities, but they can be quite expensive.

Planning Your Trip To have the best experience at Havasu Falls, it’s important to plan ahead. Here are some things to consider when planning your trip:

  • Best time of year to visit: For me, the best time to visit is between March and May, or September and November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
  • Length of stay: Its worth spending at least 2-3 days in the area to fully explore and enjoy the falls.
  • Accommodations: There are two options for accommodations in the area: camping or staying at the Havasupai Lodge. Camping is a popular option, but it requires some planning ahead and permits are limited. The Havasupai Lodge is a good alternative, but it can be more expensive.
  • Packing list: Be sure to pack appropriate clothing, footwear, and gear for the hike and the weather conditions. Also, don’t forget to bring plenty of water and food, as there are no stores or restaurants in the area. Plus a swim suit!

The Hike to Havasu Falls

The hike to Havasu Falls is approximately 10 miles each way, with a total elevation change of 2,400 feet. The trailhead is located at Hualapai Hilltop and the trail takes you through the desert and down into the canyon.

The hike is considered to be moderately difficult, with some steep switchbacks and rocky terrain. You should give yourself 4-6 hours of hiking each way, depending on your pace and level of fitness. Make sure to bring plenty of water, as there are no water sources along the trail. Other essentials, are a good pair of hiking shoes, plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and lots of food and snacks.

Exploring Havasu Falls

Once you arrive at Havasu Falls, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. After a long hike, taking a dip in the crystal clear water is a must! But bare in mind that the water can be deceptively deep and the current from the falls can be strong. it’s important to be aware of the temperature of the water, which can be quite cold even in the summer months.

There are also several other hiking trails in the area that offer stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. These include:

  • Mooney Falls: This is the largest and most spectacular of the waterfalls in the area. It’s located about a mile downstream from Havasu Falls and requires a steep descent down a ladder and through a narrow cliffside tunnel to reach the base of the falls.
  • Beaver Falls: This waterfall is located about three miles downstream from Mooney Falls and requires a longer hike through the canyon. The trail passes through several smaller waterfalls and swimming holes before reaching the stunning Beaver Falls.
  • Navajo Falls: This waterfall used to be one of the main attractions in the area, but it was destroyed in a flash flood in 2008. However, there are still remnants of the falls that are worth visiting, including a small swimming hole and a natural rock slide.

These hikes offer unique and stunning views of the surrounding landscape and are worth exploring for those who have the time and energy. But bear in mind that some of these hikes may be more challenging than the hike to Havasu Falls, make sure you come prepared with appropriate gear and a level of physical fitness that can handle the difficulty of the trails.

It’s important to respect the local customs and etiquette, which includes not taking photos of the Havasupai people without their permission, and not jumping off the cliffs or into the water at the falls.

Helicopter Ride to Havasu Falls

If you’re not up for the 10-mile hike to Havasu Falls, or if you just want to take in the stunning views from the air, a helicopter ride is a great option. Helicopter tours are available from Las Vegas, and they offer a unique and breathtaking perspective on the Grand Canyon and the surrounding landscape.

Flights start at $85 per person each way. Contact Air West Helicopters for more info.

Wapping Up

A trip to Havasu Falls is a truly unforgettable experience. From the stunning blue-green water to the red rocks of the canyon, the beauty of the falls is simply breathtaking. By planning ahead and taking the necessary precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you choose to hike or take a helicopter tour, be sure to take in all the beauty that the area has to offer. With nearby waterfalls to explore and plenty of activities to enjoy, Havasu Falls is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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