Hiking Havasupai and Havasu Falls: A Journey Into the Heart of the Grand Canyon

Deep within a remote corner of the Grand Canyon lies one of the most breathtakingly beautiful hikes in the American Southwest—Havasupai.

With turquoise waterfalls cascading into red rock canyons, this sacred land is home to the Havasupai Tribe, and its crown jewel is the stunning Havasu Falls.

Watch the video below to learn more about hiking Havasupai and Havasu Falls

• Mileage: 10-mile hike one way
• Time: 3.5 hours to 5 hours, depending on your ability
• Type of Hike: Out and Back
• Things To Consider: Start early in the morning to avoid the heat during the hotter months of the year
• Notes: You need to get a permit to do this hike. Bring a camera; the views are spectacular.

This isn’t your average weekend hike. It’s a full-on adventure that combines challenging desert trekking, serene canyon campsites, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters with nature. The moment you catch a glimpse of the falls—vivid blue-green waters tumbling down 100 feet into a travertine pool—you realize this is more than just a hike. It’s a pilgrimage.

1. Permits Are Mandatory (and Tough to Get)

Access to Havasupai is strictly regulated. You’ll need to reserve a permit through the official Havasupai website, which typically opens for reservations in February for the year ahead. Permits sell out within minutes, so be prepared to act fast.

2. The Journey In

The trailhead begins at Hualapai Hilltop, located about 4-5 hours from Flagstaff or Las Vegas. From there, it’s a 10-mile hike one way to the campground, descending 2,000 feet through sandstone switchbacks and narrow canyon corridors.

• First 8 miles: To the village of Supai, where you’ll check in with the tribal office.

• Last 2 miles: Continue past Supai to reach Havasu Falls and the campground.

Pack light but smart—temperatures can swing drastically between day and night, and hydration is critical in this arid climate.

🌊 Havasu Falls

The most iconic of the waterfalls. It’s powerful yet serene, with a wide cascade and a large plunge pool that’s perfect for swimming. Sunrise and sunset bring especially magical lighting to the falls.

🌿 Mooney Falls

Just a short walk downstream, but the descent is no joke—chains, ladders, and tunnels carved into the rock lead you down a near-vertical cliff. The effort is rewarded with another massive waterfall and fewer crowds.

💧 Beaver Falls

About 3 miles past Mooney, this trail involves creek crossings, lush greenery, and multiple tiers of smaller waterfalls—great for a relaxing soak and exploration.

Havasupai means “people of the blue-green waters,” and the tribe has lived in this canyon for centuries. This land is sacred, and visitors are asked to:

• Pack out all trash.

• Stay on marked trails.

• Never climb or jump from waterfalls.

• Respect privacy in Supai Village—no photos without permission.

• Go in spring or fall for the best weather (March-May or September-November).

• Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots or running trail shoes.

• Bring a water filter or purification tablets—natural spring water is available, but if you want to drink out of the river a water filter will come in handy.

• Don’t underestimate the hike back up—starting early is key, especially in the summer heat.

• Consider staying 3 nights to fully experience all the waterfalls and rest.

Hiking to Havasupai is more than an outdoor excursion—it’s a rare chance to witness a hidden paradise and support the preservation of Native American lands. The journey requires planning, patience, and respect—but the reward is unforgettable. If you’re lucky enough to snag a permit, take the opportunity seriously and tread lightly.

Because places like this? They’re sacred. And they don’t come twice.

If you liked this adventure to Havasupai, check out the link below to some other hikes you may also like.

SIMPLY CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW

Heading out for an ultra run or a hike takes planning and the proper clothes, equipment, and nutrition.

There is nothing worse than finding out you forget something.

Having a checklist of your essential items is very helpful in setting yourself up for success when hitting the trail.

Below is a link to our essential hiking and ultra-running gear checklist. For each hiking and ultra-running adventure, we print out and check off the items before heading out the door.