Deep throughout the Havasupai Reservation close to Grand Canyon Nationwide Park, Havasu Falls is a pure surprise recognized for its electric-blue waters cascading over vivid pink canyon partitions. The hike to succeed in it’s no straightforward feat—however the reward is an unforgettable desert oasis. As a result of overwhelming demand, getting a allow is notoriously aggressive, with 1000’s of hopefuls making use of annually and only a few securing a spot.
Why It’s So Arduous 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 annually, sometimes between late December and early January, with actual dates introduced nearer to the applying 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 embody:
- Campground: $455 per particular person 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. If you happen to safe a spot, you’ll have about one week to pay or threat shedding 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 upfront in case you don’t wish to carry your personal gear.
Professional Suggestions for Scoring a Allow
- Apply as quickly because the reservation window opens—permits promote out in minutes.
- Assemble your group upfront (as much as 12 folks per software).
- Arrange an account on the official Havasupai Reservations web site forward of time.
- Examine again for cancellations—very uncommon, however attainable.
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 mountaineering by 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 properly well worth the effort.