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Havasu Canyon: A Desert Oasis

Discover Havasu Canyon: Hike through stunning blue-green waterfalls in the heart of the Grand Canyon, a remote paradise on Havasupai tribal lands.

Havasu Canyon, home to the Havasupai Tribe and the stunning Havasu Falls, is a remote paradise within the Grand Canyon. Famous for its vibrant blue-green waterfalls and challenging access, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.

A brief summary to Havasu Canyon

  • Havasupai,, Supai, AZ, 86435, US

Local tips

  • Reservations are essential and highly competitive. Book well in advance through the Havasupai Tribe's official website.
  • Prepare for a strenuous 10-mile hike each way. Pack light, bring plenty of water (at least a gallon per person), and wear sturdy hiking shoes.
  • Summer temperatures can be extreme. Hike early in the morning or during the cooler months (February-May & September-November).
  • Respect the Havasupai culture and environment. FollowLeave No Trace principles and be mindful of tribal regulations.
  • Consider using pack mules to transport your gear, especially if you're not an experienced backpacker.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The journey to Havasu Canyon begins with a drive to Hualapai Hilltop, the trailhead. From Las Vegas, take US-93 South to I-40 East, then exit onto AZ-66 East towards Peach Springs. Turn left onto Indian Road 18 and drive approximately 60 miles to the Hilltop. From Phoenix, take I-17 North to AZ-69 N, then merge onto AZ-89 to I-40 West. Take the I-40 Business Exit toward AZ-66/Peach Springs, then turn right onto Indian Road 18. Parking at Hualapai Hilltop is free, but can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arrive early to secure a spot. There are no services available at the Hilltop, so ensure you have adequate supplies. Note: Indian Road 18 is open range, watch out for cattle and wildlife on the road.

  • Hiking

    From Hualapai Hilltop, the only way to reach Havasu Canyon is by hiking 8 miles to Supai Village and another 2 miles to the Havasu Falls Campground. The trail descends steeply via switchbacks for the first mile, losing over 1,000 feet in elevation. The remaining 7 miles to Supai are relatively flat. The hike from Supai Village to the campground passes by the Navajo and Havasu Falls. The trail can be hot and exposed, especially during the summer months. Carry at least a gallon of water per person and wear appropriate hiking gear. Mule services are available to transport gear from Hualapai Hilltop to Supai Village. Reservations for mules must be made in advance. Cost: * Permit: $455 per person for a 3-night stay. * Mule service: $400 round trip per mule.

  • Helicopter

    Helicopter service is available from Hualapai Hilltop to Supai Village. However, there are no reservations for the helicopter; it operates on a first-come, first-served basis and has an inconsistent schedule. The helicopter lands in Supai Village, from which it is still a 2-mile hike to the campground. Cost: * Helicopter: $85 per person, one way. * Baggage via helicopter: $50 for up to 40 lbs.

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Discover more about Havasu Canyon

Havasu Canyon, carved over centuries by Havasu Creek, is a breathtaking side canyon of the Grand Canyon, located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. The Havasupai, whose name means "people of the blue-green waters," have inhabited this area for over 800 years, relying on the creek for sustenance and agriculture. The canyon is renowned for its series of spectacular waterfalls, including the iconic Havasu Falls, Navajo Falls, Fifty Foot Falls, Mooney Falls, and Beaver Falls. The unique turquoise color of the water is due to the high concentration of calcium carbonate and magnesium, which creates stunning travertine formations. The Havasupai's traditional way of life was challenged in the late 19th century with the arrival of settlers and the creation of Grand Canyon National Park. Despite losing much of their ancestral land, the tribe persevered and, in 1975, regained a portion of it. Today, tourism is a vital part of the Havasupai economy, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of their land. Visiting Havasu Canyon requires advance planning and a permit from the Havasupai Tribe. The challenging hike and limited access contribute to the preservation of this fragile environment, making it a truly special destination.

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