Havasupai Trail Complete Guide: Permits, Tips & Highlights

Havasupai Trail: Hike to the World’s Bluest Water

Ten miles, eight waterfalls, and some of the bluest, clearest water on Earth—welcome to the Havasupai Trail! 

Nothing quite prepares you for the surreal beauty of turquoise-blue falls cascading through the heart of a red rock canyon. This is the Grand Canyon like you’ve never seen it before!

The first time I told the family I wanted to do the 10-mile hike into this oasis, they thought I was crazy! We hadn’t even started hiking as a family yet- and no one other than me had ever done a hike that long before. Have I mentioned that my favourite thing about this crew is that they roll with all my crazy ideas.

The first time I told the family I wanted to do the 10 mile hike into the oasis, they thought I was crazy! What started out as a wild dream became one of most unforgettable family adventures.

This hike landed on our bucket list six years ago. We were all set to make it happen last summer- but when we arrived at the check-in point, we found out a flash flood had hit the area (more about flash floods later). The entire canyon had been evacuated, and our long-awaited trip had to be postponed.

Fast forward to this spring- and we finally made it happen! In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to plan you own unforgettable trip to Havasupai. From securing permits and what to pack, to crafting the perfect 4-day itinerary, it’s all here. Let’s dive in.

If you’re wondering exactly how hard Havasupai is, check out our guide, How Hard Is Havasupai, specifically designed to help beginner backpackers decide if they are ready for it.

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases at no extra charge to you if you purchase them from my link. Thank you for supporting my blog.

 What Is the Havasupai Trail?

The Havasupai Trail is officially 8 miles one way, beginning at Hualapai Hilltop parking lot and ending at Supai Village. However most people hike an additional 2 miles one way to the campground, making it 20 miles roundtrip from the trailhead to the campground.

At the end of the trail is crystal clear turquoise water flowing through the Havasu Creek and a myriad of waterfalls. The three main attractions are Havasu Falls, Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls.

Permits and Reservations

To hike to Havasu Falls and explore the surrounding waterfalls, you must have a permit secured through the official Havasupai reservation system. Day hikes are strictly prohibited, and visitors without a valid permit will be turned away at the trailhead.

Types of Permits:

• Lodge
  • Located in Supai Village (8 miles from the trailhead)
  • Cost- $2277 USD/room (4 person occupancy)
  • Duration- 3 nights/4 days
  • Included- all taxes, fees, and permits for 4 people (no meals included)
  • Where to Book- Havasupai Lodge Reservations

• Campground
  • Located 2 miles beyond Supai Village between Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls (10 miles from the trailhead)
  • Cost- $455 USD/person
  • Duration- 3 nights/4 days
  • Included- All permits, taxes and fees for one person to camp in the campground
  • Where to Book- Havasupai Campground Reservations
• New 2026 Early Access
  • Campground reservations are available starting Jan 21, 2026 with a $40/person additional fee

How and When to Book Your Permits

• Permits typically go on sale February 1st at 8:00 am MST for the entire year.
• Popular dates sell out within minutes to hours, so plan ahead!
• Set up your account before February 1 to improve your chances.
• Lodge and campground permits require separate reservation accounts.

New for 2026

• Early access to reservations beginning January 21, 2026 for a premium fee of an additional $40/person for campground reservation and $160/lodge room for lodge reservations.
• Early access fees are non refundable
• The official transfer list has been discontinued. All reservations remain non-changeable and non-transferable
• The presale lottery has been discontinued.
• New Refund Policy: Cancellations received 90 days in advance will receive a 50% refund-minus any early access fees.
• Trip insurance is still strongly recommended as the trip is not refundable for any reason within 90 days of trip start date.

Check In

 The trip leader or a designated (PATL) MUST check-in for all members of their group. Failure to do so will result in your reservation being cancelled. No refunds or rescheduling of dates will be issued.

Trip Leader Responsibilities

The person who books the reservation is the Trip Leader.

• There is only ONE name on a reservation (the trip leader)
• ⚠️ A reservation is only valid if the trip leader or PATL (Potential Alternate Trip Leader) is present at the Tourist Check-in Office with valid photo ID otherwise the reservation will NOT be honoured.
• The trip leader will receive all permits, wristbands, bag tags, and an entrance form, which will need to be completed and shown to the Havasupai Reservation boundary checkpoint staff.
• A trip leader may book for a maximum of 12 people
• Only one reservation per trip leader per year (campground or lodge).
• Reservations are non changeable and non refundable

PATL (Potential Alternate Trip Leader)

• Up to two PATL’s can be assigned during the booking process (they cannot be added later.
• If the original Trip Leader is unavailable, the PATL can take over the Trip Leader responsibilities.

When to Go

The permit season runs from February 1-November 30, and each month brings different conditions to consider. Here’s what to expect throughout the year:

❄️ February, March  &  November

• Mild‑to‑warm daytime temps (50s–70s °F / 10–21 °C)
• Cold nights (20s–40s °F / ‑6–4 °C) – pack a warm bag & layers
• Very quiet trails, easier to score permits
• Swimming is chilly or unlikely

🌸 April & May

• Mild‑to‑warm daytime temps (50s–70s °F / 10–21 °C)
• Cold nights (20s–40s °F / ‑6–4 °C) – pack a warm bag & layers
• Very quiet trails, easier to score permits
• Swimming is chilly or unlikely

🔥 June, July  &  August (Monsoon Season)

• Very hot (90–110 +°F / 32–43 +°C )
• Flash‑flood risk from afternoon storms
• Start hikes pre‑dawn, carry extra water, watch forecasts
• The summer season comes with significant risks between extremely high temperatures and potential flash floods.

🍂 September  &  October

• Cooling temps (70s–90s °F / 21–32 °C)
• Water still comfortable for swimming
• Smaller crowds after Labor Day, gorgeous light for photos
• Comfortable camping weather

Month	Average High	Average Low	Precipitation	Notes
January	13°C (56°F)	-1°C (31°F)	0.90 in	No permits issued
February	16°C (61°F)	1°C (34°F)	0.81 in	Cold nights; layers essential; warm sleeping bag
March	22°C (71°F)	6°C (42°F)	0.86 in	Ideal hiking weather; still cool nights
April	26°C (79°F)	8°C (47°F)	0.48 in	Good hiking weather; cool nights
May	32°C (89°F)	13°C (55°F)	0.47 in	Hot days; great for swimming; good for lighter gear
June	37°C (99°F)	17°C (63°F)	0.29 in	Hot; be sun aware; hydrate often
July	40°C(104°F)	22°C (71°F)	1.35 in	Very hot and humid; Flash flood risk; caution advised
August	38°C (101°F)	21°C (69°F)	1.63 in	Monsoon season; flash flood risk; expect afternoon storms
September	34°C (94°F)	17°C (62°F)	0.92 in	Still hot; late season storms possible
October	28°C (82°F)	10°C(50°F)	0.92 in	Mild and pleasant; ideal hiking conditions
November	19°C (66°F)	3°C (38°F)	0.69 in	Cool and crisp; cold evenings
December	14°C (57°F)	0°C (32°F)	0.83 in	No permits issued

---

Getting to the Trailhead (Hualapai Hilltop)

• If you’re flying in, the best airport is Las Vegas (LAS)- Harry Reid International Airport. It will likely have the cheapest flights and car rentals.
• From here it is about a 5 hour drive to the trailhead via historic Route 66.

• The closest accommodations to the trailhead is the Grand Canyon Caverns & Inn (Not an affiliate link, just the closest place to stay). They are an hour from the trailhead, and they sell out during peak season, so book in advance. We stayed here our first time.
• The second time we stayed in Seligman at the Supai Motel as the Caverns was fully booked.
• Can’t get into the Caverns or what something different? Enter your dates and number of people into the map to find something that will meet your needs.

• The nearest towns are Peach Springs and Seligman, Arizona.

Seligman- Real Life Radiator Springs

If you’ve got time after checking in at Grand Canyon Caverns & Inn, swing by Seligman—a quirky Route 66 town with major Cars movie vibes! It’s a quick stop or even a great place to spend the night.

• Route 66 photo ops with vintage cars
• Tributes to Cars characters
• Local live music at the tavern
• Souvenir shops and a retro ice cream stand

🍽 Where to Eat:

Don’t miss Westside Lilo’s Café—a beloved roadside diner known for:

• Big portions
• Great prices
• Homemade desserts (get the carrot cake!)

📌 Fun Fact: Seligman inspired the town of Radiator Springs in Disney-Pixar’s Cars. You’ll feel like you drove right into the movie.

Peach Springs

🍕 Peach Springs is just 12 miles from Grand Canyon Caverns & Inn—
and trust me, the best gas station pizza around is waiting for you at the Walapai Market!

• $4.50 for a huge individual slice
• $25 for a massive extra-large pizza

The Hike In: What to Expect

The trail into Havasupai is 8 miles (12.8 km) to Supai Village and 10 miles (16 km) one way to the campground, with a total descent of 2,000 feet (610 meters). The first two miles feature a steep drop via switchbacks, but after the two-mile marker—engraved on a boulder to the left—the trail levels out into a steady, gentle descent all the way to the village.

This non-technical route is rocky and sandy but relatively easy after the initial descent, offering sweeping views of the surrounding canyon. Most hikers complete the trek in 4 to 6 hours, depending on pace and pack weight.

Washrooms on the Trail

There are three sets of composting toilets on the trail:

• Hualapai Hilltop (the trailhead)
• Approximately halfway to the village
• Approximately halfway between the village and campground.

Generally speaking the toilets are well maintained and fully stocked with toilet paper and soap.

Water Access on the Trail

There is no access to water between Hilltop and Supai Village. Make sure to pack enough water for the entire hike.

• Minimum 3-4 L per person during hot summer months (May-Sept)
• Minimum 2-3 L per person during cooler months (Oct-April)

Optional Pack Mule Service 

If carrying a fully loaded backpack 10 miles feels a little daunting, there are other options. The most common is reserving a mule to carry your bag in and out.

💰Costs

• Round-trip (Hilltop Trailhead ↔ Campground or Lodge): $400 per mule
• Late Run Fee (if you miss the drop-off time): Additional $300
• Emergency One-Way Mule (if available): $400

📦 Bag Requirements

• Capacity: One mule can carry up to 4 bags
• Weight Limit: 32 lbs (14.5 kg) per bag
• Size Limit: 36″ L x 19″ W x 19″ H
• Bag Type: Soft-sided only; no coolers or items hanging off the outside

⏰ Drop-Off Times

• Hilltop to Campground/Lodge: Drop bags by 10:00 AM; they typically arrive around 5:00 PM
• Campground to Hilltop: Drop bags by 6:00 AM; they typically arrive around noon
• Visitors must obtain their pack mule tags no later than 9am on the morning of your reservation arrival date in order for your reservation to be honoured.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Reservations: Are made online when you book your campsite or lodge room
• Reservation Policy: Non-refundable, non-transferable, and non-changeable.
• Reservation Validity: Each reservation is valid for a specific date; if part of your group leaves early, a new reservation is required.
• If your permit reservation is transferred to a PATL, your mule reservation does not transfer with it. The PATL will need to book and pay for a new reservation.

Optional Helicopter Service

Helicopter services to and from Havasupai are provided by Airwest Helicopters, offering an alternative to the 10-mile hike between Hualapai Hilltop and Supai Village. Here’s what you need to know:

🚁 Helicopter Ride Options

• Cost: $300 per person, one-way, includes 1 personal bag.
• Schedule: Flights typically operate on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
• Booking: No advance reservations; flights are first-come, first-served.
• Check-In: Sign up at the helipad either at Hualapai Hilltop or in Supai Village.
• Payment: Cash is preferred; credit cards may be accepted with a $20 fee, but connectivity issues can occur.
• Priority: Tribal members and vendors have priority boarding.
• Wait Times: Arriving early (before 6:00 AM) is recommended to minimize wait times, which can extend to several hours.
• No Guarantees: Even on scheduled days, there are no guarantees that flights will be available to tourists

🎒 Luggage Transport

• Policy: As of recent reports, helicopters no longer transport luggage without a passenger.
• Weight Limit: Each passenger may carry one bag up to 40 lbs (18 kg).
• Additional Luggage: Extra bags may incur additional fees, subject to availability and discretion.

⚠️ Important Considerations

• Weather Dependency: Flights are subject to cancellation due to weather conditions.
• No Guarantees: Availability is not guaranteed; always be prepared to hike if necessary.
• Contact: For the latest information, contact Airwest Helicopters at (623) 516-2790.

For more detailed information and updates, you can visit the Havasupai Reservations Help

The Campground

The Havasupai Campground is located between Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls, approximately 2 miles beyond Supai Village. The campground stretches for about one mile along both sides of Havasu Creek.

• There are no designated campsites, so just pick a spot that works for your group.
• The campground is well shaded and generally hammock friendly.
• We had a great site right by the creek that accommodated four tents and a hammock along with a couple picnic tables.

🚻 Toilets and Hygiene

There are four sets of well- maintained composting toilets spaced throughout the campground. Each one is stocked with:

• Toilet paper
• Hand soap or sanitizer

💧 Drinking Water

A filtered spring (Fern Spring) is located on the left side of the campground, about one-third of the way through, near the first two sets of toilets.

• Never drink untreated water from Havasu Creek or the waterfalls—parasites and bacteria can be present!
• The spring water is generally safe to drink, but the Havasupai Tribe recommends treating it by filtering, boiling, or purifying with tablets to be safe.

🔥 Fire Rules

Absolutely no fires allowed at any time.
This includes:

• Campfires
• Charcoal grills
• Fireworks

Camp stoves are allowed for cooking, but always practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.

What to Pack for Havasupai

Packing for Havasupai depends on the season, whether you’re staying at the campground or the lodge, and how much weight you’re comfortable carrying. The hike involves long, exposed desert miles, limited services, and time spent around water near the falls.

Rather than repeating a full gear breakdown here, I’ve created a complete Havasupai packing list with item-by-item recommendations, seasonal considerations, and optional gear based on how you’re hiking. For a broader overview of backpacking gear systems and how to choose them, see Backpacking Essentials.

Exploring the Waterfalls

The iconic turquoise blue waterfalls are the reason everyone goes to visit Havasupai

Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls is by far the most iconic and accessible waterfall in Havasupai. You can see it from the main trail, making it an awe inspiring first glimpse of the turquoise falls as you enter the campground area.

• A short, descending trail leads to the base of the falls, where you can swim, relax, and explore.
• The water is a refreshing 70°F (21°C) year-round, perfect for cooling off after a long hike.
• Ample shade from cottonwoods and canyon walls makes this a comfortable place to linger, even on hot days.

Mooney Falls

Located at the far end of the campground, Mooney Falls is the tallest waterfall in Havasupai, plunging nearly 200 feet in a stunning display of turquoise power.

• There’s a beautiful, easily accessible overlook at the top, perfect for photos or a quiet moment of awe.
• To reach the base, you’ll descend a steep, adventurous route involving narrow tunnels, chains, and ladders carved into the canyon wall—not for the faint of heart, but absolutely worth it!
• Mooney Falls marks the gateway to Beaver Falls and the Confluence.

⚠️ If you’re scared of heights: Face the ladder and get someone to go before you that can guide your steps down the chains. Having someone tell you where the footholds are so you don’t have to look down is clutch!

This descent can look and feel scary, but it is completely doable! Our group had a couple people that are scared of heights and were worried about the descent, but they all made it down and loved their time at the bottom.

If someone ahead or behind you in the line is struggling with the descent, please be kind and patient! Encouragement and teamwork will bring everyone up and down the chains safely.

Beaver Falls

Beaver Falls is the crown jewel of Havasupai—a series of stunning turquoise cascading waterfalls nestled deep within the canyon. This oasis retreat beckons photographers, hikers, and adventurers alike with Instagram-worthy pools, lush vegetation, and towering red rock walls. Beaver Falls never fails to deliver!

The hike in is technical and adventurous featuring:

• 2.5 -3 miles (4-4.8km) one way
• 500-960 feet (150-290 meters) elevation gain
• Rock scrambling
• Ladder climbing
• Multiple river crossings (up to waist deep)
• Steep descent into Mooney with narrow tunnels, chains, and laddders

The journey to Beaver Falls is beautiful, challenging, technical, a whole lot of fun—and absolutely worth every step!

There are multiple beautiful cascades on the way to Beaver Falls that look like they could be the Promised Land, but when you finally arrive there will be a sign.

The Confluence

The Havasupai Confluence is the junction between the Havasu Creek and the mighty Colorado River. The trail continues another 6 miles (10 kms) one way past Beaver Falls. From the top of Mooney Falls to the Confluence and back we clocked 18.75 miles (30 kms), according to AllTrails.

After Beaver Falls the trail leaves Havasupai Tribal Land and enters the Grand Canyon National Park. This route is reserved for hardcore adventurers—those who want to experience it all and have the endurance for a long, technical, and demanding trek.

All of the adventurous features of the Beaver Falls hike continue on to the Confluence peaking with a chest deep water crossing and tunnel scramble about 1/2 mile (800 meters) from the finish.

Here, the towering walls of Zion’s Narrows, the tropical greenery of Hawaii, and the turquoise clarity of Lake Louise converge on one unforgettable trail—offering awe-inspiring, epic views from start to finish.

Hidden Falls-

**Update- The recent 2025 flash flood diverted the creek and changed the landscape of the smaller falls. Navajo Falls and possibly Hidden Falls and Fifty Foot Falls are now dried up.

Just a ten-minute walk from the top of Havasu Falls, a short scramble leads you down to the creek where you’ll spot a small sign reading Hidden Falls. From there, a shallow river crossing and about 1/4 mile (400 m) of mild scrambling will bring you to this secluded oasis.

Hidden Falls features a peaceful swimming area, gentle cascading pools, and large rocks perfect for lounging in the sun. It’s a true hidden gem—offering a refreshing and scenic escape with minimal effort, making it one of the easiest yet still rewarding detours in Havasupai.

Navajo Falls

After visiting Hidden Falls, return to the main trail and continue hiking for about 10 minutes toward Supai Village. Keep an eye out for another trail leading down to the creek. At the bottom, you’ll see a sign for Navajo Falls.

A short scramble around a few boulders brings you to this scenic spot. Navajo Falls offers a shallow swimming area, a peaceful atmosphere, and large rocks perfect for relaxing in the sun. It’s a great stop for cooling off and soaking in the canyon’s serenity without venturing far off the beaten path.

Fifty Foot Falls

Fifty Foot Falls was one of our absolute favorites. From Navajo Falls, scramble back across the same boulders, but instead of returning to the main trail, follow the Navajo trail. You’ll spot a few “Trail” signs with arrows guiding you toward Fifty Foot Falls.

These falls are known for having the warmest water in the canyon and offer plenty of space to explore nearby cascades and quiet corners. With fewer crowds and expansive surroundings, it’s an ideal place to unwind, take a dip, and soak in the natural beauty of Havasupai.

---

Key Things to Know Before You Pack

1. There is no water between the trailhead and Supai Village

All water for the hike in and out must be carried from the trailhead. This is one of the most important packing considerations for Havasupai, especially in warmer months.

2. Heat management matters more than technical terrain

The main trail in and out of the canyon is not technical, but it is long, exposed, and often hot. Sun protection, hydration capacity, and breathable gear matter more here than rugged mountain durability.

3. Camping requires a full overnight setup

If you’re staying at the campground, you’ll need to carry your full sleep system and cooking gear. There are no shared kitchens or communal equipment available.

4. Side hikes involve water and uneven terrain

While the main trail is dry, hikes to Beaver Falls and the Confluence involve creek crossings, slick rock, and time spent in and around water. Plan footwear and water treatment accordingly.

5. Food options are limited

There are only limited places to buy food in Supai, and availability can change. Plan to carry the majority of your food for the trip.

---

---

For a full, item-by-item breakdown with seasonal guidance and specific gear recommendations, see the Havasupai Packing List.

---

Safety and Tips

Hydration and Heat Awareness

Hiking in Havasupai — especially during spring, summer, and fall — often means contending with high temperatures and intense sun exposure. Proper hydration and heat management are absolutely essential for your safety and comfort.

☀️ Essentials for Staying Safe in the Heat:

• Bring plenty of water
  • Minimum: 3–4 liters per person for the hike in/out
  • Double that for full-day hikes like Beaver Falls or the Confluence
• Add electrolytes to your water or snacks
  • Helps prevent dehydration and muscle cramps
  • Consider electrolyte powders, tablets, or sports drinks
• Pack salty and high-protein snacks
  • Protein bars, trail mix, nuts, jerky, granola, and electrolyte chews help maintain energy and sodium levels
• Use sun protection
  • Sunscreen (SPF 30+), reapplied every 2 hours
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Wide-brim hat and sun-protective clothing
• Know the signs of heat illness:
  • Early signs: headache, dizziness, excessive sweating
  • Severe signs: nausea, confusion, no longer sweating — seek shade and rehydrate immediately

Flash Flood Risks – What to Watch For

The narrow Havasu Canyon acts like a funnel, making flash floods fast, forceful, and hard to escape. Even if it’s sunny in Supai or at the campground, storms upstream (like on the Hualapai Plateau) can trigger floods hours later. Major floods in 2008, 2010, 2018, 2021, 2024, and 2025 caused evacuations, damage to the trail, and temporary closures. For a full breakdown of flashflood warning signs and how to stay safe, check out our guide on flash flood safety.

When Flash Floods Are Most Likely

• Monsoon season: Late June to September is the highest risk.
• Afternoons: Most desert thunderstorms form in the late afternoon.

High-Risk Areas on the Trail

• Havasu Creek crossings: Especially between Mooney Falls and Beaver Falls.
• Canyon narrows: Anywhere water would rise quickly with no natural exit.
• Ladders and chains near Mooney Falls: Dangerous and slippery in wet conditions—extremely risky during rising water.

Emergency Actions

• ⚠️ If water starts rising: Immediately climb to higher ground. Don’t try to outrun a flood through the canyon.
• 📍 If possible, mark your GPS location and attempt to communicate via satellite messenger (Garmin InReach, Zoleo, etc.).
• 🚨 Follow instructions from Supai guides or rangers—your safety depends on fast compliance.

Respecting Supai Village and the Havasupai Tribe

When visiting Havasupai, it’s essential to remember that we are guests on land that has been home to the Havasupai people for centuries. The canyon is more than a hiking destination—it’s a sacred place, rich in cultural, spiritual, and historical significance.

Please respect both the land and the community:

• 📸 Do not take photos of the Supai people or the village. Photography of residents and private spaces is strictly prohibited to protect their privacy and culture.
• 🧹 Pack out everything you bring in. Havasupai has no public trash service, and waste removal is costly and labor-intensive for the community.
• 🚯 Leave no trace. This means no garbage, no gear left behind, and no damage to natural features or campsites.
• 🦶🏻 Stay on marked trails and follow all posted signs and guidance from local authorities.
• 🚫 No drones allowed
• 🏕️ Camp only in the designated campground

Unfortunately, there are areas along the trail where hikers have abandoned gear or trash, assuming someone else will deal with it. This behavior is harmful and disrespectful. Please be different. Leave the canyon better than you found it.

Cell Service

There is limited cell service in the canyon. We were able to consistently get cell service at the cafe in the village and at the top of Mooney Falls. Otherwise service was spotty at best and often times nonexistent.

• Make sure to bring a printed or downloaded map
• Consider bringing a satellite communication device like:
  • Zoleo Buy at: REI | Amazon ✅ Affordable, reliable, easy-to-use, SOS and check ins; ❌ needs a phone for messaging
  • Garmin in Reach Mini Buy at: REI | Amazon ✅ Lightweight and feature-rich with SOS and tracking doesn’t need a phone ❌ more expensive

---

The Hike Out

The hike out of Havasupai is long and challenging—especially the final two miles, which climb steeply up a series of switchbacks to Hualapai Hilltop. This section is very strenuous, and tackling it in the heat can be dangerous.

• 🕓 Experienced hikers typically take 4–6 hours to hike out.
• 🕖 Average hikers, especially those carrying heavy packs or fatigued from earlier hikes, may take 6–8+ hours.
• ☀️ The last two miles are fully exposed, making heat a serious factor.

🌄 An early start is crucial. Many hikers begin the hike out between 2–4 a.m. to reach the top before the sun rises over the canyon rim and bakes the switchbacks.

Headlamps are essential, and this early start can be the difference between a tough hike and a miserable (or dangerous) one.

Know Your Limits

One of the most important—and often overlooked—aspects of staying safe while hiking in Havasupai is knowing your limits. The desert environment is demanding, and overestimating your ability can lead to dangerous situations.

Plan conservatively and hike smart:

• 🕓 Know how long it will take you to hike out. Factor in your pace, pack weight, rest stops, and the heat.
• 💧 Bring enough water—at least 3–4 liters for the hike out. There are no water sources once you leave the village.
• ⚡ Pack electrolytes and high-energy snacks to stay fueled and avoid dehydration or heat exhaustion.
• 🧥 Dress in layers. Early morning temps can be chilly, but the canyon heats up quickly—especially on the exposed switchbacks.
• 🧳 Consider using mules or the helicopter service if you’re unsure about your ability to complete the hike.

There’s no shame in using the support services available. They not only help keep you safe—they also support the local Havasupai community.

---

Havasupai Trail Wrap Up

Havasupai was a long-awaited, bucket list trip for our family — and it absolutely delivered. From breathtaking scenery at every turn to the incredible sense of community formed on the trail, every moment was unforgettable. It’s the kind of adventure that doesn’t just give you beautiful views — it leaves you with core memories and a lasting sense of awe, humility, and gratitude to the One that gives us these amazing natural wonders and the privilege to experience them. We are blessed beyond measure to witness this testament to God’s creative handiwork -together.

Planning and preparation are essential for a successful Havasupai trip. Bring the right gear, clothing, and safety essentials — and if you’re unsure about your abilities, begin training well in advance. Building strength and endurance months ahead can make all the difference. The more you prepare, the more you’ll be able to enjoy every moment once you’re there.

This is one of the most breathtaking and highly anticipated trips we’ve ever taken. The landscape is awe-inspiring, and the sense of community built along the way is truly unmatched. As visitors, we have a responsibility to care for this sacred land. Respect the Havasupai people, and help preserve its beauty for future generations: stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles.

The magic of Havasupai will stay with you long after you’ve left the turquoise waters and towering canyon walls behind. For us, that magic carried into our next adventure—a Black Canyon self guided kayaking trip—where we traded waterfalls for hot springs, and hiking boots for paddles on the emerald Colorado River