Havasu Falls is a bucket list destination for good reason. With its iconic turquoise water, red rock cliffs, and dramatic waterfalls, it’s one of the most breathtaking spots in the American Southwest. But getting there isn’t as simple as showing up—you’ll need permits, gear, and a game plan. This guide walks you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect Havasu Falls adventure.
Why Visit Havasu Falls
The surreal beauty of Havasu Falls and its neighboring cascades—Mooney, Beaver, Fifty Foot, and Navajo Falls—makes it one of the most sought-after backpacking trips in the U.S. Crystal-clear water tinted an unreal blue-green by natural minerals flows through the canyon, contrasting dramatically with the deep red sandstone walls. For nature lovers, hikers, and photographers, it’s paradise.
The Best Time to Visit Havasu Falls
The best times to visit Havasu Falls are March through early June and September through early November. These months offer the most comfortable weather for hiking, camping, and swimming.
Here’s a breakdown by season:
Spring (March–early June)
- Temps: 70s–90s°F during the day, 40s–60s°F at night
- Why it’s great: Wildflowers bloom, water levels are ideal, and crowds are still manageable in March and April. May starts to get hotter but is still doable if you start your hike early.
Summer (mid-June–August)
- Temps: Can reach 100–115°F
- Why to be cautious: This is monsoon season. Expect afternoon thunderstorms and a higher risk of flash flooding. The heat is intense, and hiking during midday is dangerous. If you go, hit the trail before sunrise.
Fall (September–early November)
- Temps: 70s–80s°F during the day, 40s–50s°F at night
- Why it’s great: Perfect hiking temps, fewer bugs, and clear water. It cools off significantly at night, so pack layers.
Winter (late November–February)
- Temps: 50s–60s°F during the day, 30s–40s°F at night
- Why you might skip it: It’s cold and not ideal for swimming. But if solitude is your thing, this is the quietest season. Be prepared for freezing overnight temps.
Getting Permits to visit Havasu falls: Step-by-Step
Permits are required for all visitors to Havasu Falls, and they’re one of the hardest parts of planning your trip—so it pays to be prepared before booking opens.
Here’s how to secure your spot:
Step 1: Know When and Where to Book
Permits go on sale every year on February 1st at 8:00 AM (Arizona time) at the official site:
👉 www.havasupaireservations.com
They typically sell out within minutes, so make sure you create an account in advance so you can be online, logged in, and ready to go the moment bookings open.
Step 2: Understand What You’re Booking
- Cost: $455 per person (as of 2025)
- Includes: Entrance fee, environmental fee, and a mandatory 3-night stay at the campground
- Lodging alternative: Instead of camping, you can book the Havasupai Lodge in Supai Village for $2,277 total (up to 4 people for 3 nights)
- Mule service: You can request pack mule transport when booking permits—this must be done during checkout
→ Each mule carries up to 4 bags (max 32 lbs each) for about $400 roundtrip
Step 3: Designate a Trip Leader
Only one person needs to book for the entire group (up to 12 people). This person becomes the trip leader and is responsible for managing the reservation.
However, each group member must still create their own account on the reservation site. When checking in at the trailhead, each person will need to show ID and proof of their own account—but they don’t need to book separately.
Step 4: Check for Transfers and Cancellations
Didn’t get a permit? You’re not out of luck. The system now includes a cancellation/transfer list, where trip leaders can release their permits. Keep checking the site regularly—spots open throughout the season, and they go fast.
How to Get There
The hike to Havasu Falls starts at the Hualapai Hilltop Trailhead, a remote parking lot at the end of Indian Road 18, 66 miles from the the nearest town, Peach Springs, Az. There’s no public transportation or shuttle service—you’ll need to drive yourself. The trailhead has no services and very limited cell reception, so be sure to download directions and offline maps in advance.
Closest Major Airports:
- Las Vegas (LAS) – approximately 4.5 hours to Hilltop
- Phoenix (PHX) – approximately 5 hours
- Flagstaff (FLG) – approximately 3.5 hours
Permit Check-In: Grand Canyon Caverns Inn
The day before your reservation (or morning of if you’re hiking in winter), you’ll need to stop at the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn to check in and pick up your permits, wristbands, and tent tags. This is mandatory before heading to the trailhead.
Grand Canyon Caverns Inn is located near Peach Springs on Route 66, about 66 miles from from the trailhead.
The check-in office is open from 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Only the designated trip leader must be present to pick up permits and wrist bands.
Where to Stay the Night Before
Camping overnight at the trailhead is not allowed, so you’ll need to arrange lodging nearby. These are the most convenient and commonly used options:
- Grand Canyon Caverns Inn (66 miles from the trailhead)
- Motel rooms: ~$150–$200/night
- Campground with bathrooms and showers: ~$22–$45/night
- Hualapai Lodge (70 miles from the trailhead)
- Located about 15 minutes from Grand Canyon Caverns
- Rooms start around $160/night
Staying nearby the night before is highly recommended—you’ll want to hit the trail early the next morning, especially in the warmer months. Book early—these locations fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
The Hike In to Havasu Falls
The hike from Hilltop to the campground is about 10 miles and descends 2,000 feet into the canyon. It starts with steep switchbacks for the first mile, then continues through wide, sandy canyon floors for 7 miles until you reach Supai Village. From there, it’s another 2 miles to the campground.
There is no water available on the trail, and very little shade. Start hiking early—ideally before sunrise in summer and by 6–7 AM in spring or fall. Bring at least 3 liters of water and snacks with plenty of calories and salt.
I recommend having a trail map downloaded on your Garmin device or on AllTrails so you can track your progress, and stay on the trail.
Don’t want to carry a full backpack?
You can hire mules in advance when booking your permit, or inquire at check-in. They’ll carry your gear both in and out.
Other options:
- Helicopter rides are sometimes available between Hilltop and Supai Village (note: availability is inconsistent and based on weather, tribal needs, and demand). It’s first-come, first-served and costs around $140 per person. You’ll still need to hike the two miles to the campground with your pack.
- You can hire a horse to ride out of the canyon from the Supai tourist office. This must be arranged at least 24 hours in advance, and costs around $200 per person. Horses meet at the top of the campground around 7am.
The Campground
The Havasupai Campground stretches for nearly a mile between Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls, nestled along Havasu Creek. Campsites are first-come, first-served and there are no designated spots, so you can choose anywhere within the campground boundaries to set up.
The best campsites tend to be toward the far end, closer to Mooney Falls, especially those across the wooden footbridges on the other side of the creek. These sites are more private, scenic, and quieter. You’ll also find the cleanest and most reliable composting toilets there.
The campground has access to Fern Spring, a natural spring where you can fill your water bottles with cold, clean water (though some still prefer to filter it). There are picnic tables scattered throughout, though not at every site, and many campers bring their own chairs or hammocks.
If you’re not into camping, there’s also the option to stay at the Havasupai Lodge in Supai Village (see details above under “Getting Permits”).
Sample Itinerary (3 Nights, 4 Days)
Day 1: Hike In & Settle at Camp
Begin your hike early, arriving in the canyon by early afternoon. After checking in at Supai Village and hiking the final 2 miles, set up camp and take a dip at Havasu Falls just minutes from the campground. You can also walk up to the top of Havasu Falls and grab a frybread from the frybread stand (bring cash for this!).
Day 2: Mooney Falls & Beaver Falls Adventure
The descent to Mooney Falls is not for the faint of heart. It’s a dramatic 200-foot climb down a cliffside, assisted by chains and ladders bolted into the rock. Because the mist from the waterfall makes everything slick, I highly recommend bringing gloves with good grip. After taking in the power and beauty of Mooney Falls, continue hiking downstream to Beaver Falls—about 8 miles round trip. You’ll cross the creek multiple times, so plan to get wet and wear sturdy water shoes.
The hike is absolutely stunning, but also a bit challenging. You’ll scramble over rocks and climb through narrow sections, some aided by ladders. Still, it’s 100% worth the effort. Once you arrive, take time to relax and swim at the turquoise pools of Beaver Falls.
If you’re up for an even bigger adventure, some hikers continue on to The Confluence, where Havasu Creek meets the Colorado River. It’s a strenuous 16-mile round trip, but an unforgettable experience for those who make it.
Day 3: Explore & Relax
Swim in Havasu Falls again or check out Navajo, Fifty Foot and Hidden Falls. This is also a great day to walk the two uphill miles to Supai Village, and explore there for a while. Treat yourself to some frybread, a meal in the cafe, or a cold drink from the store.
Day 4: Hike Out
Pack up before dawn and begin the hike out early to beat the sun. Allow 5–7 hours to reach the Hilltop, and take frequent breaks. It’s a great idea to have some extra water and food waiting for you in your car.
If you used the mules to carry your pack, they’ll arrive before noon, so you may have to wait a while depending on what time you arrive.
What to Pack
Here are the must-haves for your trip. You can also grab my Printable Packing List (link placeholder) for a complete checklist. You can also check out my Ultimate Camping Gear Guide for more inspiration for this and other camping trips.
Essentials
- 3–4 liters of water per person (plus electrolytes)
- Trail snacks and all food for 3 full days and the hike out
- Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and pillow (though the pillow is optional)
- Hiking boots and water shoes (I love Chacos for my water shoes)
- Swimsuit, quick-dry towel
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
- Headlamp or flashlight (with extra batteries)
- Trash bags (pack everything out)
- Permit printout or screenshot
- First aid kit and blister care
Here: a list of some of my favorite gear that I used for this trip:
Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated Sleeping Pad
Kelty Cosmic 20 Down Mummy Sleeping Bag
Danner Mountain 600 Hiking Boots
Final Tips
- Train in advance: This hike is long and demanding, especially with a full pack.
- Test your gear: Go on a small backpacking/camping trip in advance and test out your gear.
- Respect the Havasupai people: This is their home, not just a tourist destination.
- Leave no trace: Whatever you bring in, you must bring out—including trash.
- No drones, alcohol, or fires allowed.
- Expect spotty or no cell service once you leave Peach Springs.
Havasu Falls is an incredible place that I highly recommend visiting. I hope you have the most amazing trip!
