Havasu Falls: A Waterfall Wonder Hidden Deep Within The Grand Canyon State

The Grand Canyon is a must-see destination and at the top of countless bucket lists. The breathtaking views, incredible scenery, and amazing wildlife are just a few reasons why this canyon is one of the most iconic American landscapes. However, there is so much more to see and do than just what you may notice from the popular overlooks, and to experience its true beauty, you've got to embark on a bit of an adventure just beyond the bounds of Grand Canyon National Park.

Not far from the Grand Canyon is the fascinating blue-green Havasupai Falls.

Havasupai Falls, also known as Havasu Falls, means “people of the blue-green water.”

This waterfall is 98 feet tall and tumbles from a split in the canyon's iconic red rock. It receives its stunning blue-green color from a high calcium carbonate concentration in the water, and it almost looks too beautiful to be real.

The falls are located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation.

The village of Supai is home to the Havasupai people, and they control access to this remarkable waterfall and the surrounding land. You cannot access this area by vehicle. Rather, you must hike or ride an animal to reach this small village.

Due to the location of the falls on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, you must make a reservation and receive a permit to camp and hike to the gorgeous, picture-worthy falls.

While it can be a challenge to obtain a reservation, it is well worth the effort to see these stunning falls, and to help ensure the cascade is protected and respected by visitors.

The journey to the falls is anything but easy, so be sure you're up for quite a trek before you head out.

To reach Havasu Falls, you must hike eight miles to the village of Supai. Take a break in the village and then continue your journey two more miles to the mesmerizing falls.

The 10-mile journey can be difficult, exhausting, and long, but the end of the trail is worth every step. The falls will certainly take your breath away.

Make sure you bring plenty of water and sun protection, as you’ll be hiking in the hot and brutal desert sun. You can expect that the hike will take several hours to complete.

Take your time and enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery as you explore this area deep in the desert of Arizona.

Permits are limited and restricted during certain times of year, so be sure to make your plans well in advance if you want to catch a glimpse of this tucked-away natural wonder.

The summer is a busy time to hike this trail, and the crowds and sun make it more difficult to access Supai.

During this time of year, permits may be more difficult to secure. Additionally, if temperatures reach up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit, the National Parks Service will close all of the trails into Supai. You cannot receive a day hike permit to Havasu Falls, so it is recommended you plan for a two to three-day trip.

Spend some time under the stars at the campground along Havasu Creek.

You may also choose to spend the night at the Havasupai Lodge in Supai. The Havasupai Tribe manages and runs the lodge.

While it might be tempted to sit down and watch the waterfall for the full day, you don't have to spend all of your time at the gorgeous Havasu Falls.

There are many additional hikes nearby that take you to even more blue-green water and other fairytale waterfalls.

From the Havasupai Campground, you can also hike to the stunning Beaver Falls.

Other popular waterfalls nearby include Mooney Falls, Little Navajo Falls, and Fifty Foot Falls.

No matter how long you stay and how quickly you hike, you’ll want your camera ready at all times to capture the remarkable views.

Visiting Havasu Falls is an adventure that you will never forget.

General Information: 

Accessibility: Havasu Falls offers little when it comes to wheelchair accessibility. The trails are unpaved, rocky, and steep, making them difficult to climb. You cannot access the falls, campground, or the village of Supai unless by foot or by an animal. Be aware that there is little emergency assistance in the area as well. You not only want to be prepared with food, water, good shoes, etc., for the challenging hike, but you will want to physically prepare your body as well.

Pet Friendly: Pets are generally not allowed on the trails and on the reservation. You may see some dogs while in Supai, but these are typically reservation dogs.

The area has strict rules on all pets. Animals are not allowed on any inner canyon trail and when above the canyon’s rim, all animals must be kept on a six-foot leash at all times.

Parking: There is a trailhead parking lot at Hualapai Hilltop. It is an 8-mile hike from this parking area to the village of Supai. There are no services such as gas, food, or water in the area.

Seasonal Access: The trail into Supai is accessible throughout the year. However, all campers and hikers must receive a permit before they can enter the Havasupai Indian Reservation. All reservations and permits must be acquired prior to arrival. You can learn more about the reservation process here.

The campground is available from March to November of each year. The peak season for the campground is March to October.

Cost: The cost of a permit will vary from year to year. Permits become available on February 1 of the given year. You must purchase permits online.

Campground reservations are $100 per person per weekday and $125 per person for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. These prices include all permits, fees, and taxes.

You can visit the National Park Service website to plan your upcoming trip.

Feeling inspired to fill your Bucket List? Check out our previous features of the Red River Gorge, Maroon Bells in Colorado, and the beautiful Florida Keys, then subscribe to our weekly Bucket List newsletter to discover new destinations across the country that definitely deserve a visit.