Mooney Falls, Kaibab National Forest Travel Guide

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Experience the thrill of descending to Mooney Falls, the tallest and most adventurous waterfall in Havasupai, Arizona. A challenging hike with rewarding views.

Mooney Falls, towering at approximately 200 feet, is the tallest of the Havasupai waterfalls, located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation near the Grand Canyon. Reaching its base requires a challenging and adventurous descent involving chains, ladders, and tunnels, making it a must-see for experienced hikers seeking breathtaking beauty.

A brief summary to Mooney Falls

Supai, Arizona, 86435, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mooney Falls.

Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction for the slippery descent.
Bring gloves to protect your hands while holding onto the chains.
Avoid hiking down during peak hours to minimize wait times on the ladders.
Check the weather forecast and avoid visiting during monsoon season due to the risk of flash floods.
Pack a headlamp if there's a chance you'll be hiking back up after dark.

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Explore Mooney Falls on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Mooney Falls, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Havasupai Campground, follow the well-marked trail towards the north end. The trail is approximately 1 mile from Havasu Falls to the top of Mooney Falls. Look for the sign that reads 'Descend at Your Own Risk'. The descent involves navigating through two tunnels, followed by a steep climb down using chains and ladders. Gloves are recommended for the descent. Allow 1-2 hours for the round trip from the campground to the base of the falls, not including time spent at the bottom.
Helicopter

From Hualapai Hilltop, a helicopter service is available to Supai Village. From the village, it is approximately 2 miles to the Havasupai Campground and another mile to the top of Mooney Falls. The helicopter costs $150 per person each way, with an additional $50 for luggage. Flights operate on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, but are subject to change. Priority is given to tribal members and contractors. From the campground, follow the walking directions to Mooney Falls.

Discover more about Mooney Falls

Mooney Falls is the most adventurous of the Havasupai waterfalls, a stunning cascade plunging approximately 200 feet into a turquoise pool below. Located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, just west of Grand Canyon National Park, reaching the base of Mooney Falls is an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty with a thrilling physical challenge.The falls were named in 1882 after D.W. “James” Mooney, a miner who tragically died attempting to descend the falls before a proper trail was established. Today, the descent involves navigating a steep cliff face using a series of chains, ladders, and narrow tunnels carved into the rock. The mist from the falls constantly sprays the rocks, making the path slippery, and requiring sturdy footwear and a sure grip.The adventure begins at the end of the Havasupai Campground, about a mile from Havasu Falls. The trail leads to the top of Mooney Falls, where you'll find a sign warning “descend at own risk”. From there, hikers enter a small, dark tunnel, which opens to a breathtaking view of the falls. The path continues through a second tunnel before reaching the most challenging section: a near-vertical descent using chains and wooden ladders. Gloves are often recommended to protect hands from the wet, cold chains.Despite the difficulty, the reward is well worth the effort. At the bottom, you're greeted by the full force of Mooney Falls, a powerful and awe-inspiring sight. The turquoise pool invites you to linger and soak in the beauty, though swimming directly under the falls is not recommended due to strong currents and undertows. From the base of Mooney Falls, adventurous hikers can continue to Beaver Falls and, further on, to the confluence of Havasu Creek and the Colorado River.Visiting Mooney Falls requires a permit to access the Havasupai Reservation, which must be obtained in advance. Reservations for camping or lodging at the Havasupai Lodge are essential, as day trips are not allowed.