A Complete Guide to Havasu Falls Hike

Are you fond of hiking? Are you still stuck between the quintessential question, “to hike or not to hike…”? Havasu falls hike is certainly the answer to all your questions. It’s a 10 miles long hike. It is worth an attempt.

Havasu falls hike overview

The baby blue water of the Havasu falls, is extremely eye-soothing. A refreshing retreat as it is unison between your heart and mind. Though the 10-mile-long hike isn’t a tough nut to crack. If you are a beginner you might find it a bit tiring. But once you are there and you get to soak in the soothing calmness of the Havasu Falls, all your weariness goes out of the window.

Havasu Falls location

The Havasu Falls is located on the Havasupai reservation. Pai means people and Havasupai means people’s water. It’s a popular belief and to an extent, or a saying to be precise, that the water over here flows over the land and through people inhabiting the same. This particular hiking trail is named after one of the waterfalls in the area called Havasu Falls.

Famous for its blue-green water, the people residing in the Havasupai reservation were formerly called the Havasu Baaja. Now that we know a bit about the history of the falls and its enchanting blue-green water, let’s jump to the details of the Havasu Falls hike.

Best time to visit Havasu Falls Hike

April, May, and October are the months when one should think of giving the Havasu Falls hike a shot. Though it’s said that February to April is the best period, considering the frequency of the permits given, the temperature, and the weather condition, these three months are perfect for Havasu Falls hike.

From February to April, the temperature is cooler and the hiking trail isn’t difficult to cover. In May, the temperature tends to get a bit higher and you might feel being bugged by the sun, but then that’s fine. The refreshing blue-green water of the falls makes up for the bugging sun. October gives one a balmy feel, as the temperature isn’t too high then.

Permit to hike

One will need a 3-day long permit for the hike. The permit is available on the Havasupai Indian Reservation website. Being a hot potato among the hikers, Havasupai permits sell real fast. So, if you are planning to hike this year around, get your hands on the permit by Feb 1st, 2020.

The reservation costs around $100 during weekdays and $125 during weekends. You can book the hiking spree for 3 nights which amounts to $300-350 per person roughly. Also, you can book the permits for 12 people at a stretch and not more than that.

Havasu Falls hike difficulty level

The hike-trail is not hard for the ones who have been hiking for a long time now. If you hike in the aforementioned seasons, you will easily complete the trail without much hassle. However, you should keep in mind that you need to start the hike as early as possible. It takes around 4-7 hours to complete the hike-trail.

The terrain is mostly flat, so it’s not difficult. You hike the first 8 miles to reach a town named Supai, followed by that 2 more miles from the town leads you to the Havasu Falls. The hike down becomes a little difficult towards the few miles as it is a little steep.

To make the entire process easier, train yourself, especially cardio exercises, and a 20-mins long regular jog will help you sail through the hike trail. Also, shoulder strength is a must for the Havasu Falls hike, so one must work on that too.

No drugs and alcohol were allowed during the hike. There’s a tendency among hikers, especially the rookies, to gulp down alcohol or get high on drugs to make the trail easier. But do not, as it makes the entire process all the more difficult. Moreover, if you are planning to carry drugs or alcohol during the Havasu Falls Hike, drop it now. You are not allowed to carry alcohol or drugs during the hike.

What to carry during the hike

Sunscreen is a must. You are majorly subjected to the sun during the hike so do carry sunscreen. The time you’re hiking in a way that you are able the garner the shadows of the Grand Canyon walls. Hiking poles are a must. To make your trail easier, carry a hiking pole. It comes to rescue especially during the unruly terrains.

Carry your water bottles during the trail as there’s no availability of water during the same. Every person should carry at least 2-3 liters of water. Also, do not overload yourself with stuffs during the hike. The lighter your backpack is, the easier will be the hike. Though there are mules and horses available to carry your luggage, it’s not a good option as the animals are not nourished properly.

If you plan to swim and make the most of the Havasu Falls hike, carry your water shoes. Besides, do not miss out on swimming if you are planning to opt for Havasu Falls hiking. It’s a heaven for swimmers. You will certainly regret it if you don’t.

Among the clothes to pack, definitely carry a swimsuit. Hiking shorts and tees are compulsory. DO not carry a lot of clothes because you will have to ultimately carry them all by yourself. Carry warm clothes. You will not need them while you are hiking. But the rest of the time you will feel the need of warm clothes.

If you are planning to pack your drones so that you get to capture every moment from a bird’s eye view, you are calling for trouble. drones are not allowed here. However, do carry your cameras. Havasu Falls hike is certainly going to be a zone of picturesque moments. It’s the best place to practice photography.

However, there are places you can coup your camera in, so handling the camera isn’t much of a struggle during the hike trail. The hammock is another thing that you can carry. There is a lot of green all around. So in case you are all tired, you can take a quick afternoon nap in your hammock.

Reach Havasu Falls without hiking

You might wonder as to how to get to Havasu falls without hiking. Well, helicopter is the answer. The helicopters are available at a rate of $85 per person. Passengers can avail of the helicopter on a first come first serve basis. Also, locals have an upper hand in this scenario. You might need to wait for hours as locals get a preference in this case.

Where to stay during Havasu Falls Hike

Generally, you must stay at least for at least 3 days. A three-day stay not only helps you cover the 10-mile-long trailhead easily but also allows you to make the most the Grand Canyon overlooking the waterfalls. There is a lot to see in the Canyon, so a one-day visit wouldn’t make much sense.

If you are not camping, there’s a lodge or hotel in the Supai village, which is 2-miles away from the waterfall. The lodge provides you with basic facilities, it is not a fancy one. It offers no food and also doesn’t have many rooms. So, by now you know, you need to carry your food items such that you don’t squeal out of hunger.

Havasu falls sight-seeing

Apart from the amazing hike, there are many other things that you can visit. We all know about Havasu falls, but other beauties are enhancing the beauty of the place. If you have time to explore them too. Here are a few places that you must check out while hiking Havasu Falls.

Navajo Falls

One of the smallest set of falls of the region, Navajo is synonymous to serenity. Enjoy the beauty of the Navajo Falls while you are around this region. It is very close from Supai. The teal water and the colorful background makes it hard to give a miss. If you are lucky as I was, you will get to enjoy the beauty of Navajo all alone.

Mooney Falls

Mooney Falls is located in the Grand Canyon and towers higher than Niagara Falls. The climb is a bit hard and can be scary at times. But if you are willing to give it a try, go for it, you will not be disappointed. You might have to climb down ladders and walk along the Canyon Walls.

Supai Indian Village

If you visit the village, we can guarantee you that you will fall in love with the people there. The hospitality of the villagers are worth experiencing. One of the sightseeing of Havasupai that you must not miss.

Thunder River Trail

Oh the beauty! How can you leave the Havasupai region without visiting the beautiful Thunder River trail? The hike to the river is not that easy. But the jacuzzi pools along the hike will make it easy to cover. You will need a national park permit to explore the region.

Frequently asked questions

Is the hike good for the children?

So. Havasu Falls Hike is one of the easy hikes that you can get. Most of the part of the hike is flat terrain. You may get a bit of steep terrain. But that will not bother you much. Children will love the hike. It does not drain out the energy. Moreover, the amazing swimming experience will make them happy.

How long does it take to hike Havasu Falls?

You can cover the hike in a day. But of course, you will be doing a bit of sightseeing, won’t you? A three days tour is the minimum time that you must have in your hand. However, you can extend the days to cover the entire area.

How hard is the Havasupai hike?

It is an easy hike. Havasu Falls Hike is one of the easiest hikes that you can do. If this is you first hike, go for it. Havasu hike is simple yet so breathtaking that you will want to come back again and again.

Do you need any special hiking gear for this hike?

Not really, just the basics will do. Carry hiking shorts if you are traveling to Havasupai during summer. For winter, you can go for full pants. Hiking shoes are important no matter how easy the hike is. Get a wind shielding jacket. Carry a scarf if you find it necessary.

Will you find drinking water along the hike?

It is best to carry a lot of water along with you. You must have water for at least 10-mile. Many travelers who come for hiking around this region drink the creek water. However, it is best not to take the risk.

How much does it cost to hike Havasu Falls?

Not much really. Havasu Falls hike is a dream hiking trail for beginners and budget travelers. From Monday to Thursday, it will cost you about $100 per person per night. However, on weekend, the price goes up to $125 per person per night.

COVID precautions

In the post COVID era, traveling has become a great deal of concern. The industry which can easily be called the most affected one is still struggling. However, the wanderlusts are out again. Havasu Falls Hike is one of the safest places to visit in the post-COVID time.

Avoid large groups, sanitize hands, and take the basic precautions. You will not be able to wear a mask while hiking, but keep it handy so that you can put it on while interacting with others.

End Note

Havasu Falls hike is one of the easy yet breathtakingly beautiful hike. It is perfectly fine for beginners to come and do the hike. No words can describe the beauty of nature. Furthermore, the hospitality of the locals is beyond any descriptions. They are friendly and welcoming. If you are planning to go on a short hike go for it. You will not regret or forget a moment of the Havasu Falls Hike. It is a great trip for a bunch of friends. So, what are you waiting for?