Deep inside the Havasupai Reservation close to Grand Canyon Nationwide Park, Havasu Falls is a pure surprise recognized for its electric-blue waters cascading over vivid crimson canyon partitions. The hike to succeed in it’s no straightforward feat—however the reward is an unforgettable desert oasis. Attributable to overwhelming demand, getting a allow is notoriously aggressive, with hundreds of hopefuls making use of annually and only a few securing a spot.
Why It’s So Exhausting to Go to Havasu Falls
This isn’t your typical trailhead-to-waterfall day hike. Entry is strictly managed by the Havasupai Tribe, and solely guests with confirmed campground or lodge reservations are allowed in—no day hikers, no exceptions. The reservation system opens every year, usually between late December and early January, with precise dates introduced nearer to the appliance window.
Because the pandemic, the tribe has made main adjustments to how reservations work. Now, vacationers can apply for as much as three completely different three-night keep home windows. Choices embrace:
- Campground: $455 per individual for a 3-night keep
- Lodge: $2,277 complete for as much as 4 visitors (3 nights)
There’s additionally a compulsory $20 per-person entry charge. In the event you safe a spot, you’ll have about one week to pay or danger dropping your reservation.
Hike Particulars
- Spherical-trip Distance: 16 miles from the trailhead
- Elevation Change: Roughly 2,400 toes complete achieve/loss
- From Supai Lodge to Falls: About 4 miles spherical journey
You’ll start your trek on the Havasupai Trailhead (Hualapai Hilltop), descend to the village of Supai after about 6 miles, and proceed 2 extra miles to succeed in the falls and campground. Mules can be found for rent prematurely if you happen to don’t need to carry your individual gear.
Professional Suggestions for Scoring a Allow
- Apply as quickly because the reservation window opens—permits promote out in minutes.
- Assemble your group prematurely (as much as 12 individuals per utility).
- Arrange an account on the official Havasupai Reservations web site forward of time.
- Verify again for cancellations—very uncommon, however potential.
What to Count on
The setting is otherworldly: vivid turquoise water, travertine swimming pools, and rust-colored cliffs that rise like partitions across the canyon. Whether or not you’re soaking within the falls, tenting beneath the celebrities, or just mountain climbing by way of the distant desert, each a part of the journey looks like an journey.
Simply be able to work for it—and plan forward. For a lot of, visiting Havasu Falls is a once-in-a-lifetime expertise that’s nicely definitely worth the effort.
