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Havasupai Trailhead: Gateway to Paradise

Embark on an unforgettable backpacking adventure to the turquoise waterfalls of Havasu Canyon from the remote Havasupai Trailhead.

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The Havasupai Trailhead, also known as Hualapai Hilltop, marks the beginning of an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Grand Canyon and the Havasupai Tribal Lands. This remote trailhead is the starting point for a challenging but rewarding hike to the village of Supai and the world-renowned turquoise waterfalls of Havasu Creek.

A brief summary to Havasupai Trailhead

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Reservations are essential and highly competitive. Book well in advance through the official Havasupai Tribe website.
  • Arrive early at the Hualapai Hilltop to secure a parking spot, especially during peak season.
  • Pack light but smart. Carry enough water, snacks, and sun protection for the 10-mile hike to the campground.
  • Check in at the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn before heading to the trailhead.
  • Be aware of the weather forecast and potential for flash floods, especially during monsoon season (July-September).
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Peach Springs, Arizona, drive approximately 60 miles north on Indian Road 18 to reach Hualapai Hilltop. Indian Road 18 is paved but can be subject to open range, so drive carefully and allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the drive. Ensure you have enough fuel, as the nearest gas stations are in Peach Springs or at Grand Canyon Caverns. Check in for all permit reservations will take place at Grand Canyon Caverns Inn, located at Mile Marker 115, Route 66 near Peach Springs, Arizona 86434. There are no services available at Hualapai Hilltop.

  • Parking

    Parking is available at Hualapai Hilltop, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. Additional parking is available along the road leading to the trailhead. Register your vehicle at check-in. Parking is tight for RVs, and turning around may be difficult. There is no public transportation to/from the trailhead.

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Discover more about Havasupai Trailhead

The Havasupai Trailhead, or Hualapai Hilltop, is the access point for the stunning Havasu Falls and the Havasupai Indian Reservation. Located at the end of Indian Road 18, 60 miles north of Route 66 near Peach Springs, Arizona, the trailhead sits on the rim of Havasu Canyon, offering the first glimpse into the breathtaking landscape below. The trail descends approximately 2,500 feet over 8 miles to the village of Supai, the only place in the United States where mail is still delivered by mule. From Supai, it's another 2 miles to the Havasu Falls Campground, passing the stunning Navajo and Havasu Falls along the way. The entire hike from the Hilltop to the Campground is 10 miles. The Havasupai Trail is not just a hike; it's an immersion into a world of natural beauty and cultural significance. The vibrant blue-green waters of Havasu Creek, the towering waterfalls, and the rich history of the Havasupai people create an experience unlike any other. However, accessing this paradise requires advance planning and a reservation, as day hiking is not permitted, and permits are required to visit Havasu Falls. Be prepared for a challenging trek with limited shade and potentially extreme temperatures, especially during the summer months. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy hiking shoes. The rewards, however, are well worth the effort, as you'll witness some of the most spectacular scenery in the American Southwest.

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