Havasupai Falls is one of the most sought after backpacking permits, and for good reason. It’s legit one of the most stunning backpacking hikes I’ve ever done.
From the initial descent into Grand Canyon, to your first glimpse of the falls, this hike will have you oohing and aahing throughout your entire journey.
Unfortunately due to it’s popularity it can be quite the challenge to secure permits but no worries with a little persistence you should be able to snag one.
In this post we will cover everything you need to know to have a successful Havasupai Falls experience.
This is a Havasupai Falls Backpacking Guide: Everything You Need to Know.
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Havasupai Indian Reservation
First off I am going to start this off by saying that ALL visitors require a reservation PRIOR to arrival. No exceptions.
The very beautiful Havasupai Falls Trail resides within the Havasupai Indian Reservation.
This self-goverend tribe has been residing in the Grand Canyon for over a 1,000 years. To this day, Supai Village is still home to the Havasupai people, meaning ” people of the blue-green water”.
Supai Village is located 8 miles from Hualapai Hilltop. It is said to be the most remote community in the continental United States. It’s the only place where the U.S mail is delivered and carried out by mule.
There is only three ways to get to Supai Village and that is either by foot, horse or helicopter.
You will have an oppoturnity to pass through Supai Village at mile 8. Just remember to be respectful of their land. Signs posted throughout the village ask all visitors to restrain from taking any photos or videos of Havasupai people and their village.
Havasupai Falls Trailhead
This is a 20 mile out and back hike, starting at Hualapai Hilltop Parking Lot and ending at Havasupai Campground. During your time at Havasupai you will explore 5 waterfalls. Fifty-Foot, Little Navajo, Havasu, Mooney and Beaver Falls. You also have the option to hike to the Colorado Confluence.
Parking is available near the trail start at Hualapai Hilltop, just make sure to indicate the license plate number of each vehicle at check-in.
About The Trail:
Trailhead Start: Hualapai Hilltop Parking Lot
Trail Length: 20 miles out and back + 6 miles out and back for Mooney & Beaver Falls. Optional Hike to Colorado Confluence, this is a 14 mile out and back hike.
Elevation Gain: 2400 feet
Hike in will take appoximentaly 4-6 hours
Once you arrive at Supai Village you have about 2 miles remaining before arriving at camp. Havasupai Campground is located 10 miles from Hualapai Hilltop.
Waterfalls begin to appear just before your arrival to camp. Starting off with Fifty Foot Falls and Little Navajo Falls. Followed by Havasu Falls and at the end of the campground you will find Mooney Falls. Beaver Falls is located 3 miles beyond Mooney Falls.
Water temperature is said to be roughly 70 degrees all year long but to be honest felt a tad bit colder.
There is a small cafe and store located in Supai Village that is accessible to visitors. Cash Only.
Hike out will take approximately 5-7 hours.
For daily updates check the Havasupai Tribe Tourism Facebook Page.
Havasupai Falls Permit
All reservations are for a 3 Night/4 Day Permit.
Reservations can only be made through the official Havasupai Website.
2024 Permit Cost: $455 total per person, prices include all necessary permits, reservation fees and taxes.
All reservations must be paid in full at the time of reservation. Permits are non-refundable, non-changeable, non-transferable (except via the official Transfer System on HavasupaiReservations.com).
Permits are only valid if the Trip Leader named on the reservation is present at the Tourist Check-in Office with a picture ID.
Tip: Don’t see any available dates make sure to check the Cancel & Transfer List. This list is updated daily at 8am (Arizona Time).
The Trip Leader must check in and pick up permits beginning the day before your scheduled hike and no later than noon on the first day of your reservation. Permits cab be picked up at Grand Canyon Caverns Inn, located at Mile Marker 115, Route 66 near Seligman, Arizona 86434. The check-in office is open every day from 6 am – 6 pm.
2025 permit release date has yet to be announced, but usually is done every February 1st.
Havasupai Falls Hiking Summary
All reservations are for a 3 night/ 4 day permit.
This is how we spent our time in Havasupai.
Day 0:
We stayed the night at Hualapai Lodge, but you can also stay at Grand Canyon Caverns Inn. This will put you about 1 hour away from the trail start.
Day 1:
It’s Hike in day!
According to the Ranger who is at the start of the trailhead, you are allowed to start hiking between 4-5am, this varies because there is a road check before arriving to Hualapai Hilltop. She stated sometimes the ranger is there at 4am sometimes he’s there at 5am.
During Summer months especially, it is a good idea to be on trail by 4am. We visited during April and started the trail at 7am, we had great weather but caught a lot of sun by the time we were approaching camp. I would have preferred to start at 6am.
After hiking 10 miles to camp its time to relax, set up camp and explore around the campground.
Day 2:
Today is the perfect day to explore Mooney and Beaver Falls. You’ll pass Mooney Falls on your way to Beaver Falls. Note, to get to Mooney and Beaver Falls you will go through an old mining route, down a steep and challenging cliff side via chains and ladders.
It’s recommend to bring gloves for the chains.
This trip will take you roughy 5-6 hours and is a 6 mile roundtrip hike.
Day 3:
Explore Havasu Falls, Fifty Foot Falls and Little Navajo Falls. Take the rest of the day to chill and relax.
Make sure to try a Fry Bread Taco at one of the two small stands located close to the start of camp. CASH ONLY.
Day 4.
10 miles back to the top!
That went quick, today is hike out day. Again I recommend starting early. We were on trail by 4:10 am and we were so grateful when we were chilling in our car by 9:00 am. Best decision ever! For Summer months I honestly would be on trail no later than 2:00 am, I know rough but you will thank me later.
If you’re far from home think about spending the night again in Peach Springs or Seligman, Arizona.
Havasupai Campground
Camping is allowed within the one mile stretch of camp on either side of the Havasupai Creek between the Welcome Sign and Mooney Falls.
Campsites are first come, first served.
It’s pretty easy to see where existing campers have set up camp, you will have no problem finding your little slice of paradise.
Several campsites have picnic tables with creek side views and access. There are 250 shaded campsites available.
Open fires are strictly prohibited.
There are three compost restroom located throughout the campground. One right at the entrance of camp, one right around the middle of camp and the last being closet to the end of camp. We stayed close to Mooney Falls and found the restroom to be very clean and well stocked with toilet paper. But this is not always the case, so make sure to bring toilet paper just in case.
Drinking water is available towards the front of camp, follow this Freshwater Spring signs. Water from the creek or along the trail to Beaver Falls should be filtered. Spring Water can be enjoyed straight from the spigot. But it’s recommended to filter all water.
Forgot something? Check the ranger station at the front of camp, you will see a table full of supplies campers leave behind like fuel cans, water shoes and gloves.
Remember you have to bring all your camping supplies, it is camping after all.
Trash has to be packed out, DO NOT PUT YOUR TRASH IN THE BATHROOM TRASH CANS. You pack it in, you pack it out!
Weather at Havasupai
Havasupai is a year round destination, but certain times of the year bring certain benefits.
Spring and Fall bring comfortable hiking temperatures.
Summer brings high temps, ideal time for taking a dip in the falls and creek but be careful it’s common for the canyon to reach 100+ degrees Fahrenheit, plan to hike in the coolest part of the day during these months.
Monsoon season is from July through September. So be careful with flash floods.
Winter brings cold temps, snow and ice making it a little bit of a challenge to hike and enjoy dipping in the falls or creek, but brings less crowds.
During Summer months or high temperature days make sure to hydrate, dehydration can happen quickly and it’s important to know the signs. Make sure to pack some Electrolyte Packets.
Signs of Dehydration:
- headache
- dizziness
- moodiness
- fatigue
- fast heart rate
- fast shallow breathing
- confusion
- disorientation
How to get to Hualapai Hilltop Trailhead
I recommend staying at either Grand Canyon Caverns Inn or Hualapai Lodge.
From either one of these hotels, it will take apporxitmently 1-1.5 hours to get to the start of the trailhead. The trailhead, where you park your vehicle and begin your hike, is called Hualapai Hilltop.
Hualapai Hilltop is located at the end of Indian Road 18, 60 miles from the turnoff from Route 66. This road is paved but is open range with many animals crossing the road, so please drive extra carefully.
Packing List for Havasupai Falls
Read the following blog for a full list of backpacking essentials.
I really recommend packing the following as well.
Water Shoes/Sandals
You will need hiking shoes or boots for the hike in and out but when you are visiting the falls or taking a dip in the creek you will definitely need some form of water shoe. There is lots of jagged rocks so having footwear while in the water is highly recommend.
Nomadix Original Towel
We recently purchased these towels from Nomadix and really love them. First of they are made from 90% plus recycled material, they are super absorbent, quick drying, sand-resistant and funk resistant.
Hammock
We forgot to bring our hammock but thankfully our friends had one and I was so thankful they did. Sitting near the creek and taking a nap is my kind of camping.
Ratsack and Opsak
Protect your food from critters! Don’t leave any food out, a squirrel or mice is bound to get it if left unattended. Make sure to keep any food or scented products out of your tent as well. We used the Ratsack to protect our food and Opsak to keep all our trash in.
Lightweight Camp Chair
Although there’s a ton of campsites with picnic tables these lightweight chairs are perfect to sit near or in the the creek while soaking your feet after a long day of hiking. Or if you want to chill by the waterfalls too.
REI Co-op Sahara Shade Hoodie
We wore this every single day. I like to wear long sleeves when I can so I don’t have to wear sunscreen, just another way to feel cleaner longer. Sunscreen tends to make me feel sticky. Plus they wick moisture, are antimicrobial and with a UPF of 50+, shields against harmful UV rays.
Havasupai Falls FAQ:
why is the water so blue?
We were super curious ourselves and learned that the beautiful turquoise water is due to high mineral content of calcium carbonate and magnesium.
how long does the hike take?
Prepare to hike 4-6 hours to hike in and 5-7 hours to hike out. This does not include hikes to Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls or the Colorado Confluence.
are drones allowed?
Sorry, no, your drones will have to stay at home.
I don’t have a permit can I just do this in a day?
Absolutely not, first off, all visitors need a permit no exceptions, second of all this is a 20+ mile hike. A day hike is just not feasible plus it’s not allowed.
Can I camp anywhere?
No, camping is only allowed within the 1 mile long campground. Camping outside this area is not allowed unless granted permission by the Havasupai Council.
when is the best time to Visit havasupai?
I would say Spring, March through May and Fall, September through October would be ideal times to visit Havasupai. These months will provide cooler and comfortable hiking temperatures while still being able to enjoy swimming in the creek and falls. But again permits are hard to come by so get what you can. It will be worth it no matter when you go.
is this hike kid friendly?
According to the official Havasupai Website, bringing YOUNG children to Havasupai Falls is not recommend due to many challenges and hazards. Including distance, elevation, remoteness, extreme weather, lack of medical facilities, challenging terrain and water hazards.
I really want a permit is there anything I can do to help my chances?
Here area some tips to increase your chance at obtaining a permit.
- Be flexible with your dates and have a list of preferred dates ahead of time. Do not go into the reservation website with only one set of dates, have multiple back up dates.
- Create your account, fill out any needed information including your credit card details ahead of time.
- Book mid-week dates (Sun-Thurs) and avoid major holidays and when schools are on vacation.
- Be ready to go, logged in with your dates handy before 8:00am. At 8 AM ON THE DOT, as soon as that clocks hits 8, refresh ONE TIME and make your reservation as quickly as possible.
- The larger the group the harder it will be to get a permit. Keep that in mind. Up to 12 people per reservation are allowed but everyone needs a permit.
- If all else fails keep checking the Cancel & Transfer List daily. This list is updated everyday at 8am (Arizona Time).
Friends Don’t Forget:
- ALL visitors (even if they are not a Trip Leader or a PATL) must make an account on HavasupaiReservations.com PRIOR to arrival. A printout or screenshot along with ID and reservation must be carried at all times while on Havasupai land.
- there is no gas or food services at Hualapai Hilltop.
- last gas station is in Peach Springs, AZ.
- There is no water source between Hualapai Hilltop and Supai Village, it’s recommend to carry 3 Liters of water per person.
- camp in designated campsites only.
- do not bring or use alcohol, illegal drugs or weapons.
- the trails beyond Mooney Falls are for day-use only.
- do not enter narrow parts of the canyon when it’s raining or flooding.
- PACK OUT ALL YOUR TRASH.
And as always follow Leave No Trace Principles.
Leave No Trace Principles
Whether it’s hiking, backpacking, kayaking, camping our anything outdoors, please follow these guidelines. Leave No Trace Principles helps minimize our impact and aids in preserving our earth as much as possible. If you would like additional information please read this article The 7 Principles.
The 7 Principles:
- Plan Ahead & Prepare
- Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Others
Take Nothing but Pictures; Leave Nothing but Footprints. That wraps up this post, Havasupai Falls Backpacking Guide: Everything You Need to Know.
BUT WAIT THERE’S MORE:
- A Complete Backpacking Guide For Beginners
- Backpacking Meals You’ll Actually Want to Eat
- Canoe Camping in the Boundary Waters (BWCA)
Travel Resources
Here you can find all the travel site links that we personally use and recommend.
CAMPSITES/CAMPGROUNDS We like to use a couple apps for last minute campsite bookings. Our favorites are HipCamp, The Dyrt and Campendium.
ACCOMMODATION: We find the best deals with BOOKING.COM. The more you book the better the perks like free breakfast with your stay, room upgrades and even higher discounted room rates.
CAR RENTALS: We have always used RentalCars.com and find them to have the best deals, customer service and selection of locations.
FLIGHTS: Our go to for looking up flights is SKYSCANNER, but we try to always book directly with the airline.
TOURS/EXCURSIONS: GET YOUR GUIDE and VIATOR are two very reputable sites with easy and hassle free bookings.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: It’s so important to travel with insurance and for this we use SafetyWing. We are currently using them for our 1 year trip.
TRANSPORTATION: For all our bus, ferry and train transfer needs in Asia we use 12go.asia.
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