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Havasu Falls Backpack: Day 1
A must do trip to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world!
Moderate Hiking
- Distance
- 15 km
- Ascent
- 110 m
- Descent
- 845 m
A must visit to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world!
Hiking Moderate
Havasu Falls is one of the most well-known waterfalls in the world for a reason. The turquoise blue water just blows you away! Even though you can easily Google hundreds of pictures of the turquoise water, witnessing Havasu in person is a completely different experience. This is a must-do for any adventurer.
Remarkably, in addition to Havasu Falls, this area is also home to the gorgeous Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls, and Navajo Falls. Each one has its own character and beauty. Given that the falls are so well known, you will likely not have Havasu or Navajo Falls to yourself, but Mooney and Beaver are a bit off the beaten path, making them slightly more private.
Part of what makes this adventure so fun is the remoteness. You must drive on a dirt road for a long ways to arrive at the Hualapai Hilltop trailhead, also known as the Havasupai Trailhead. You're sure to marvel at the sheer openness along the road as you drive in, and how the canyon appears before you.
This area is not far from the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, yet it is a several hour drive to get from one to the other. Because no roads really connect the two, you will encounter far fewer people than if you were at the Grand Canyon, which is a plus.
The overall hike from the Hilltop to Havasu Falls isn't too strenuous since you mostly go downhill on the outbound route. Note that the return route will be much harder since all the elevation is gained on the climb back out. This route should be done as either a two- or three-day backpack. Doing it all in one day would be quite a trek.
The hike is a pretty one as you traverse through different ecosystems. You get good vistas as you start above the canyon on the hilltop. You then descend into a narrow canyon—a completely different experience that is also neat to explore.
After traversing through the canyon for most of the hike, you reach the tiny town of Supai. Note, this isn't really a town and can be considered more of a little village. Navajo and Havasu Falls are not much further beyond Supai. The campground is located right next to Havasu Falls.
Once you reach the falls, the fun has just begun. Take your time to experience these spectacular falls, whether it's relaxing on the sand or swimming in the water. Most people spend at least one night at the campground, as there are a few day trips to be had from here.
You shouldn't rush your experience of the falls. Even just spending an entire day relaxing at Havasu Falls would be marvelous. You will never get tired of just marveling at the flowing turquoise water in front of you.
There are a few mini side trips that could be added either to the outbound or return trip. One is located right above Havasu Falls. The trail does not go far, but it presents unique views of the falls that you wouldn't get elsewhere. It is a surreal feeling to be standing right above the falls with the big drop-off below. Everyone at the falls will be wondering how you got there! Around Navajo Falls, there a few interesting areas to explore, too. Part of the allure of this entire area is the intricacies around all of the falls and within the canyon. There are just so many areas to explore! Those filled with curiosity will absolutely love this backpack.
On the return trip, a sense of relief will fill you once you have ascended the final switchback, although you will likely be sad that you have now finished the backpack to Havasu Falls. This is a trip you will never forget and is one every adventurer should do. This area is so famous for a reason. Whether it is Havasu or Mooney Falls, or a trip to the Colorado River, this three-day backpack has something to offer everyone!
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
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A must do trip to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world!
Moderate Hiking
14 routes · Hiking
4 routes · Hiking