Deep inside the Havasupai Reservation close to Grand Canyon Nationwide Park, Havasu Falls is a pure marvel recognized for its electric-blue waters cascading over vivid purple canyon partitions. The hike to achieve 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 every year 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 yearly, usually between late December and early January, with actual dates introduced nearer to the applying window.
For the reason that pandemic, the tribe has made main modifications 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 company (3 nights)
There’s additionally a compulsory $20 per-person entry price. If you happen to 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 achieve the falls and campground. Mules can be found for rent prematurely should you don’t wish 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 software).
- Arrange an account on the official Havasupai Reservations web site forward of time.
- Test 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 celebs, or just 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 well worth the effort.
