Havasu Falls Travel Tips 2024 – Havasupai Reservation, Arizona

Havasu Falls Travel Tips - Havasupai Reservation, Arizona

Find out how to get to Havasu Falls, the closest airport, where to stay before hiking, the best time to visit, and other must-know travel tips!

If you are considering a trip to Havasu Canyon, you will want to come prepared. We’ve shared our best Havasu Falls travel tips (for Havasupai Reservation in Arizona) to make planning your trip much easier!

Havasu Falls Travel Tips - Havasupai Canyon

We gathered our things, with eyes still sleepy, and prepared ourselves for the upcoming ten-mile hike into the Havasupai canyon. I was thankful Scott agreed with me about paying for a mule to carry our large packs. Ten miles is a long hike and it would have felt dreadfully longer with the weight of our camping gear and food.

We were headed to Havasu Falls, a gorgeous oasis in a remote part of the Grand Canyon. Havasupai means people of the blue-green waters and we soon found out how breathtakingly blue-green these waters really are.

Havasupai Reservation - Hike to Havasu Falls Arizona

 

How to Plan Your Havasu Falls Trip

Distance to Havasupai Lodge: 8 miles one way

Distance to Havasu Falls Campground: 10 miles one way

Closest Airport to Havasu Falls, Havasupai: Las Vegas airport is about 4 hours away

Reserve pack mules at least one week in advance.

We didn’t reserve a mule because we planned on carrying our packs. Right before we set out on our hike, we asked a tribe member if we could rent a mule even though it was last minute. He took our bags and we thought we were all set. Once we got down to the lodge (8 miles down the trail) the woman told us our bags were not guaranteed to make it to the campground (another 2 miles into the canyon) because we had not booked in advance.

We spent the next 5 hours at the campground wondering what we would do with no clothes, food or camping gear because neither of us were in any condition to hike 10 miles back up the canyon.

Since we’ve visited Havasu Falls, it has come to my attention that the pack mules are not well taken care of. I no longer advise using a pack mule. I recommend carrying your gear just like you would on any backpacking trip.

Reserve a camping spot or make a lodge reservation on Feb 1st.

You can now book camping reservations online here!! 2018 was the first year they started accepting reservations online and the ENTIRE year sold out within 6 minutes of it going live at 8AM on February 1st. They do not allow day hikes, so you must get a reservation if you want to visit Havasu Falls.

Read more: Havasu Falls Camping Guide: Permits, Hiking Trails, Packing Tips & More

Plan to spend the night in your car (or pitch a tent) at the Hualapai Hilltop the first night so you can get an early start the next morning.

If you are hiking during the summer or fall, plan to begin your hike at first light. This will give you plenty of time for breaks and will make sure you are shaded from the scorching sun for most of the hike.

If you plan to take the helicopter, instead of hiking the last 8 miles out of the canyon, get there by 7 am to secure your place in line.

If you don’t get there early, you could be waiting until late afternoon for a ride out.

Havasu Falls, Arizona - Navajo Falls

 

How to Get to Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls, Navajo Falls and Mooney Falls are located in the south rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona on the Havasupai Indian Reservation. The trail down to these falls begins at Hualapai Hilltop parking lot (which is where you will be sleeping the night before if you want to get an early start on the hike).

Hualapai Hilltop is at the end of Indian Road 18 which is 65 miles north of Route 66. Beware of cattle and wildlife on Indian 18 – especially after dark! This is no joke. We had to stop several times for cattle in the road and had to dodge a few bunnies.

GPS coordinates: 36° 9′ 44″ N, 112° 42′ 34″ W
36.162222, -112.709444

Read more: 14 Beautiful Weekend Getaways & Staycation Ideas In Arizona

 

What to Bring to Havasu Falls

Good Shoes and Socks – Make sure your foot does not move around in your shoe. The downhill will give you blisters if you don’t have the right socks and shoes! Hiking shoes are recommended.

Water Shoes: Necessary for swimming and walking in the river. These shoes are perfect because they protect your toes, have grip on the bottom, and they dry quickly. I would use these to hike from waterfall to waterfall once you are in the canyon.

First Aid Kit: If you are camping, the nearest store is 2 miles away and they sell mostly food items. J&J sells an inexpensive mini first aid kit.

Mosquito Repellent: We got bites even though we were good about putting this on. We brought this one because it was small enough to add to our pack.

Water: Bring enough water to get you through the hike down. You can buy water at the store near the lodge or if you are camping there is a natural spring to fill your water bottles.

Travelan: According to the National Park’s Service, any untreated water from a spring does have the potential to cause illness if it is not properly and carefully disinfected. We recommend bringing a pack of Travelan caplets, a product that is high in antibodies which helps maintain digestive health and protect against E. coli and other common traveler’s diarrhea culprits. Getting sick is one of the last things you want to have to deal with while you’re camping in Havasu Falls!

Water Filtration System: As an extra precaution, this water filtration system is extremely compact and easy to use.

Camping Stove: We have done extensive research on the best and lightest backpacking gear for these types of trips. This backpacking stove is tiny, weighs next to nothing and it heats stuff up fast.

Cookware: We just bought this tiny cookware set for backpacking trips and it’s extremely compact.

Sleeping Bags: This sleeping bag is great for backpacking and it gets excellent reviews.

Tent: We love this lightweight Marmot 2-person tent.

Sleeping Pads: These ones are amazing!

Backpacks: If you are looking for a durable, light, and inexpensive backpack, we recommend the Teton Scout.

Portable Charger: We carry this portable charger to charge our phones while camping and backpacking.

Waterproof Camera: We use the GoPro Hero7 Black with LCD.

Rope: For hanging clothes and trash (so the squirrels can’t get to it).

Biodegradable Soap: This biodegradable soap is a must have (!!) for washing dishes and bathing in the river. Please do not use soap that is toxic for the environment!

Food: If you plan on camping, bring as much dehydrated food as possible to lighten your load. They sell dehydrated food packets at most camping stores. Other ideas for food include beef jerky, instant mashed potatoes, oatmeal, trail mix and nature bars.

*** For more packing tips, read our Ultimate Packing Checklist for Camping and our Road Trip Packing Guide.

Havasu Falls Campground Arizona

 

Best Time to Visit Havasu Falls

This will depend on personal preference, but our opinion of the best times to visit Havasu Falls is March through June.

We visited in early September and got hit with a few gnarly thunderstorms. We thought this would be the perfect time because the water is warmer than in the spring, but thunderstorms and constant rain can definitely ruin a trip where you plan to hike and swim all day.

Also, be aware if you visit during monsoon season (July to early September) that this area has a likelihood of flash floods.

 

Prices for Havasu Falls Camping, Pack Mules, Helicopter and Lodge

All prices are in US Dollars and rates are adjusted on an annual basis:

1 Person / 1 Night on Monday – Thursday: $100

1 Person / 1 Night on Friday – Sunday : $125

Pack Mules: $400 and can carry up to 4 bags.

Lodge: $175 per night, plus $90 Entrance Fee.

Please visit the official website of the Havasupai Tribe for more information.

 

Closest Hotels to Havasu Falls

If you are visiting during the winter or you just don’t want to sleep at the hilltop the night before you hike in, here are a few of the closest hotels to Havasupai Canyon.

Hualapai Lodge: 900 AZ-66, Peach Springs, AZ 86434

Distance: Approximately 75 minutes

Grand Canyon Caverns Inn: 115 Mile Marker AZ-66, Peach Springs, AZ 86434

Distance: Approximately 75 minutes

Read more: Sedona Travel Guide & The Best Hiking Trails

 

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For more ideas on gorgeous places to camp, visit this post with some of the best places to camp in California.

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87 Comments

  1. Pamela, the over 60 hiker says:

    Great blog and only one being updated so thank you! WARNING TO ALL! My husband and I were booked to do the hike Oct 2021 for 3 nights with pack mules, which was postponed by the tribe due to Covid until Oct 2022. I understand that I can post the camping reservation for a transfer, but have been told by the tribe that the pack mule reservation is non-transferable and non-refundable. This is a $400 expense that is non-refundable and non-transferable! I was told that I should have purchased travel insurance. I fully expected the mules to be transferable along with the reservation. They also said that they have no plans at this time to enable the transfer of the mule reservations. We are still debating whether to go or eat the cost.

    1. Christy Woodrow says:

      This is really good information to know! Thank you so much for sharing. I’m sorry this happened and I hope you’re able to still go. That is so frustrating!

    2. Hi, if you can’t go I would love to Trade for your reservation. It has been a life long dream to spend my 1st night together with my Husband listening to the waterfall under the crisp Arizona Air.

  2. MyChahoud8883 says:

    I will be traveling from Connecticut. Should I fly in to Las Vegas, rent a car and drive to the canyon?

  3. Hi, luckily I got my campsite reservation today for upcoming week May 17, 2019 and we will be 3 people travelling from Los Angeles.
    Unfortunately, it will be my first hike ever so I am super excited and nervous too.
    We are planning for 8+2 mile hike.
    How should I plan my trip? If I start from Los Angeles on Friday afternoon where should I plan to stay? I am confused and need help.

  4. Thank you for all this helpful information. I’m trying to prepare for this hike in May and I need to buy some water shoes. I was curious if you wore the water shoes you suggested above on the hike to Beaver falls? Did they work ok on the climb down to Mooney falls on all the ladders and in the caves? Or did you wear hiking shoes and just change into these once you got to the main water part. Thank you for your help.

  5. Hi! You mentioned Helicopter in your heading but didn’t really address it. How can you helicopter in your packs? I flew out via helicopter last year due to a friend with a sprained ankle, but we saw peoples packs being sent in the whole time. Thanks in advance!

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Hi Shannon. I couldn’t find any updated information regarding the helicopter option on their website. They changed a bunch of stuff this year, so I would recommend calling them to ask. Maybe they stopped offering it to visitors.

  6. Mayme Kratz says:

    Very informative page and I commend you for updating information regarding the pack animal abuse. It is ongoing and a very disturbing part of their tourist industry. Google “Havasupai horse abuse” and you will get all the information you need to never use another pack horse when traveling there. Christy, is there a chance you might consider removing all price information for booking the horses/mules? I have seen some of the rescued horses and contributed to their recovery. It is bad news and some even die. Thank you.

  7. Mary Phillips says:

    Great info! I’m doing this in April. The link you have for the water shoes doesn’t seem to be working. I’m hoping you can tell me which shoes they were if you can remember or any other recommendations you might have for water shoes since this was written. Thanks!

  8. Cassandra Knebel says:

    We went this year in April 4 ladies 55-65 2 hiked in, 2 took the horses, DO NOT TAKE THE HORSES, my hands were so blistered from holding on, going down the canyon is very steep and you feel like it’s head first, when I finally got to the lodge it was all I could do to get off and crawl into bed. My friend got off a mile before because she was so traumatized she walked the rest of the way. It was a great trip and we will have many stories to tell about it…JUST TAKE THE HELICOPTER ha ha

  9. Thank you for the wonderful tips! I’m curious since i’m not an expert camper. Do you think we need a tour guide to help us get to Havasu Falls or is there an easy to follow directions and trail?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      It’s definitely easy to follow and there will be plenty of other people on the trail. Have fun!

  10. Heather Morgan says:

    I have been wanting to go here for years! This has been such amazing and helpful information. I literally wrote down damn near everything that you have on here and my best friend…boyfriend, and I are going next year. hah, no if and’s but’s about it. We both thrive to travel and one day do it not only as a lifestyle but for a living. Thank you so much for this. Your time and information isn’t only helpful but extremely inspiring and motivating!

  11. I’m trying to plan a trip for next summer, and I’ve read a ton of great information so far. My only question is, what is the parking at the trail head like? I plan on camping for four days, is it safe to leave my car unattended and pretty far away for that length of time?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      I think it’s just as safe as anywhere else. I wouldn’t leave anything valuable in your car just in case.

  12. Did you leave your tent and gear at the campsite when you did daily hikes? Would you recommend brininging a day pack for the trips to beaver and mooney falls or brining my bigger pack with stove and essentioals?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Definitely leave your things at camp. I would just bring your money and camera equipment for the day hikes.

  13. sri reddy says:

    Hi Christy,
    Thank you so much for the detailed info on HavasuFalls trip.
    I called them and they said the campsite is booked until end of the year 2016.

    I am wondering if we are allowed to visit the Havasu/Navajo Falls without the Prior Reservation.

    My Idea is I’ll fly-down in first helicaptor, spend couple of hours at falls and walk back the same day.
    or hike down, spend couple of hours at falls and then flyback up in the last helicaptor.
    Or I’ll do the same day trip(like grand-canyon rim-river-rim same day hike)

    Thank you
    Sri Reddy

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      I don’t think that will be a problem. Keep in mind that the wait for the helicopter can be a pain. We waited for almost 3 hours, I think. Good luck!!

      1. sri reddy says:

        Thank you very much Christy and it is very kind of you!!(promptly replying to so many questions from everyone.)

  14. Hello, and thanks for all the great info. It’s good to get some insider scoop on the Havasupai trip. I’m a fellow photo enthusiast & enjoyed your pix. Regarding your shots that are taken from very high up above the falls, are these along the normal hiking trail, or did you take a side hike to get to that elevation? Thanks.

    1. I’m back! We went last week. Stunning, stunning, stunning! Came back with 800+ pix & now down to 700. The most photogenic place I’ve ever been to. Not sure if it was your info where I read about the grotto just past Mooney, but that was my favorite spot. Thanks for all the great info you post about Havasu as well as the other locations. It’s invaluable.

      1. Ordinary Traveler says:

        That’s so great to hear! Did it feel crowded? I’m a little nervous about how much it’s changed in 5 years. I’m so glad the post was helpful!

  15. Since you drove to Havasu falls and I am doing the same, Google Maps isn’t showing me how to get there. It’s only showing me the closest city which is North Rim. How do I find the parking lot where I can park?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      GPS coordinates: 36° 9′ 44″ N, 112° 42′ 34″ W

      36.162222, -112.709444

  16. Tracy Gee from CA says:

    Thank you for this article. My dream was to go my birthday weekend (August 11) but Ive come to find out thats monsoon season and that scares me. We just came back from a 5 day roadtrip from Colorado to CA. We hit up Arches, Zion, Grand Canyon South Rim and Hoover Dam. After visiting South Rim, I’m determined to visit Havasupai. As of today 4/30/16, they are already booked for camping and at the lodge for the entire season. No chance of getting in this year 🙁 However Im already planning for 2017. Im super excited after reading your article. Thank you so much for all your tips. I cant wait to go and share all about it. We hope to visit in May 2017.

  17. Christina says:

    Hi, great article! I know you did this with your husband but I was wondering if this trip would be too much for someone to do on their own. I’m in my early 20s and in good physical shape, I’ve done a lot of hikes before (never ones this long though), and I’ve camped (but never gone by myself). Thanks!

  18. HazzyLizzy says:

    Does anyone know if u are allowed to hike to any waterfall without having to stay a night? I would like to do a day hike without staying.

  19. Rachele Maskrey Cooper says:

    What is the best airport to fly into? And aprox. how long is the drive from the air port to the trailhead?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Las Vegas airport is about 4 hours away. I recently rented a car in Vegas and my biggest advice is to give yourself PLENTY of time when returning the car. It seems there is always construction going on around the airport and it can be difficult getting to the rental car return garage if you get stuck in the construction traffic.

  20. Ordinary Traveler says:

    I blame Instagram. 😉 Lots of Instagrammers post about it and I’ve seen it on big sites like the NY Times in the past 6 months.

  21. Lizbeth Vargas says:

    Hi I found your post to be extremely helpful.. Is a guided tour needed or can you hike to the havasu falls from the campground on your own?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      The falls are less than a mile from the campground and everything is self guided in the canyon. Enjoy your trip!

  22. Lacy Caldwell says:

    Hi there, great information! My friend and I have an opportunity within the next three weeks… not sure if it’s enough time but we going to see. Would love to pick your brain on a couple of things if you are available!

  23. I’ve heard that there is a 10% Tribal Tax on the Entry Fee and the Campground fee. Did you find this to be true? Thank you! My husband and I are planning our trip for September this year and we are so excited!

  24. Hi Christy, thanks for this article. Our trip is towards the end of July and there are a few people in our group who are super concerned about not having the blue waters due to all of the rain. It looks like you guys were able to still experience that despite the rain? Any words to calm them down? Thanks!

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      I honestly don’t think the water turns brown unless it’s a pretty intense rain — like close to a flash flood. If that is the case, you won’t want to be anywhere near the water anyway. 😉 Hope that helps!

  25. Hello! My husband and I are planning on doing this hike next year! We are so excited! We were wondering what kind of food the lodge offered? Is it junk food, dehydrated food, or snack type foods?
    Thanks!
    Kristin

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Hmm… There were some sandwiches at the restaurant, but I can’t remember what else. I’ll update the article when we go later this year because I’m sure we will be eating there. 🙂

  26. Do you know if anyone has enter the camp without a reservation? Anyone? I keep calling and calling but I cant make a reservation. Anyone please!!!

  27. Jourdan Fluke says:

    I still can’t get through!!! To any of the phone lines or the lodge! And it doesn’t seem like they’re legit phone lines because they all end up just going dead or making a weird noise or not ringing at all!!

  28. Jaclyn Vasquez says:

    I have been trying to get in contact with the campground for DAYS and every single time I call it’s BUSY… Can anyone help with other ideas pleaseee?!!?!?!

    1. I have also been trying for several days. I have been twice now but it’s never taken so long to get through. I wish they had a better way of contacting or reserving. I guess keep trying, and cross your fingers.

      1. Jaclyn Vasquez says:

        Were you able to get through? I also came across two email address to email them but so far no response :(. I’ve continued calling and still no luck. I wonder if they have anything into May still available. Thank you for replying! 🙂

        1. Ordinary Traveler says:

          See my reply to Rebecca from yesterday for more information about how their reservations work. Also, there has been a lot of recent press on Havasu Falls so it’s likely going to be a lot tougher to get a reservation from here on out. 🙁

          1. Jaclyn Vasquez says:

            Thanks for the reply! Yes I have been calling everyday since Feb 1st and can’t get through :(. I wish they had a better answering system they really need it.

      2. Jourdan Fluke says:

        I’m in the same dang boat! I’ve been calling all four phone lines every day since Monday and it either rings and rings or just cuts out and the call doesn’t go through after 3 rings or so. Sent an email on the 1st and still no response. I’ve been in touch with them since last fall to keep confirming that Feb 1 is when i have to wait until to make the reservations and had no problems getting them on the line then. Selfishly, it’s been so frustrating to see all the media surrounding Havasu falls – i cringe every time i see all the outdoors/wilderness instagram accounts posting photos now because i know its just making it harder to get down there! Haha but i’m sure it’s great for them and the town of Supai. If anyone has any luck i’d love to hear about how you succeeded! I’ve given up on thinking i’m going for memorial day weekend and now am shooting for September hoping there’s still spots open then. I read somewhere on someone’s blog that while showing up without a reservation is not recommended – and they will charge you double – they’ve never heard of them turning anyone away if you have money in your hands. So wondering if it’s worth it to pay extra to make it happen and risk just showing up down there during a time when you’d think it’d be a little less busy…i mean it’s still probably cheaper than a luxurious vacation to another sweet place!

        1. Ordinary Traveler says:

          I hear you about the recent publicity. When we first went over four years ago, nobody knew anything about Havasu Falls. Part of me wanted to keep it a secret back then, but with Instagram, it’s nearly impossible now. We’re going again in September (we booked the lodge a few months ago) and I’m wondering how annoying it will be to have everyone trying to get the same shot that all the Instagrammers always take. Lol. I personally wouldn’t show up without a reservation just because I know what lies ahead if they turn me away. I would probably be hiking back up the trail well into the dark and whining the entire way after already hiking 10 miles that day. I wonder where they would put people that just show up if there are no campsites available? Don’t get me wrong, it’s a gorgeous place and totally worth the effort of getting a reservation, but it’s not the ONLY gorgeous place. There are so many spots in the USA that are just as gorgeous, in my opinion.

          1. Jourdan Fluke says:

            awesome – thanks for the insight. I think i read you have to call the lodge, too? No online booking there either, correct? Are they easier to get a hold of?

          2. Ordinary Traveler says:

            Yes, phone calls only. I doubt they are any easier to get in touch with right now since everybody is trying to get a reso. It’s just a really bad time to try to get through.

          3. What is all the recent press?

  29. Alicia Baker says:

    Great overview! I’m so excited to go. I was on the phone for 17 HOURS total this week trying to get my reservation. May and June were booked so I’ll be going July 7-11th. Hoping it doesn’t rain! -Alicia @www.girlonahike.com

  30. Rebecca Oh says:

    ANy tips on getting a reservation? I’ve called all four numbers like 100 times all day. I get only busy signals or rings then prolonged silence. Thanks!

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      I wish I did! It might be a bad time to call since it’s February 2nd. I believe they start taking reservations on February 1st for all of 2016 camping, so everyone is trying to get through right now.

  31. I called their office and was informed that mules and horses are no longer provided by the reservation, unfortunately.

  32. I’m trying to figure out as I’m researching before I book my reservation at camp group … How do people get coolers down into the canyon. I can’t imagine a mule would be able to carry an ice cooler..

  33. Crystal Stanley says:

    I was wondering if anyone can tell me more about the campsites? Are there restrooms, do they have a lot of trees for say putting a hammock up? Do all the campsites have picnic tables? I saw in some pics it looks like people used sand bags to secure there tents instead of stakes? Does that work better? Suggestion on the amount of water one should hike down with? I was thinking 4 liters/person, does that sound about right? Tell me one thing you wish you would have brought but did not?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Hi Cera. The campsites do have picnic tables, although, I’m not sure about the ones across the river, but I think those do as well. Lots of trees, but I guess it really depends on your campsite whether or not there is a good spot for a hammock. Tent stakes are fine. Four liters per person is the recommended amount of water for the hike down. If it’s really hot going up, I would take more if you can.

      1. Thanks for the info! ???????? what type of pack did you hike with?

        1. Ordinary Traveler says:

          We use this one http://amzn.to/1IuM8VJ on all of our backpacking trips. I also updated the post with a few more links to backpacking gear we use!

  34. Just to make people aware that you need to be a skilled rider to take the horses up the trail since they run up the canyon as they are competing for trail space with the pack horses. I suffered severe injuries when I fell off. Also, if you take the helicopter and plan to camp, consider using a packhorse for your pack. It is a rough two mile walk to the campground.

  35. Thanks you Christy for your knowledge of hiking and sharing. My family and I are planning to hike to Havasu Falls in May and I have a question about what is the proper shoe to wear. Are sneakers OK on the trail or do you recommend a hiking boot? My hiking boots are rather heavy and tend to weigh me down so I am concerned they will tire me out before reaching the bottom. Thanks for your input!

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      I think a sneaker would be fine. Have a great trip!

  36. Planning a road trip for last week in May. Grand Canyon is our first stop and I’d love to see Havasu falls. Can you also rent a stand up paddle board or kayak once you get there? Any and all advice would be appreciated! Thank you!!

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      I don’t think they have any of those type of rentals down there — unless something has changed since we visited.

  37. Jan Kroon says:

    Hi Christy. Great blog.
    Do you know by any chance if there are rental tents at the campground?
    We are planning trip end of september this year. Lodge is fully booked 🙁 so camping may be good alternative and maybe even prettier.
    But we are not able to take tents and gear with us.

    Regards from Holland.

  38. Tae Srisurapol says:

    Thanks for good insight! How many days do you think is the right amount toe spending time at all the falls without rushing?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Minimum 5 days. More if you can!

  39. Agnieszka Spuzak says:

    What do you do if you go there first and you have other destinations to go and have some laptops and etc in the car?

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      I think this was one of the only trips where we didn’t bring our laptops. I would suggest leaving them in the car — out of sight.

  40. Veaney Enriquez says:

    Hello, how long does the 10 mile trek take you? I was told by another person in a traveling website that this Havasu Falls trip is a 3-day trip minimum: One to hike down, one to stay at the falls, and one to hike back up. But this seems like a lot. Also, did you get to see any of the other falls? Mooney, Beaver (I don’t really know how far they are from each other)? By the way your article has been one of the most helpful. I had been trying to search exactly where you park before the hike and now I know that it is Hualapai Hilltop parking lot! I’ve lived in Arizona all my life and never been, so a trip to the Falls is definitely needed.

  41. Carl Joe Wright says:

    I’ll take note that the best time to go in Havasu Falls is from March through JUne. I learn a lot from your blog. Thanks Ordinary Traveler.

  42. Altu Phaltu says:

    Thanks for this site! I seem to have under-estimated this trip and it looks its not a ‘one-day trip’ from Vegas. Since we have a bit of time on our hands (group of five) for an overnight thing –

    1) What is available at the Hilltop to rent or buy (items or tour offices)

    2) What is available down to eat (vegs please :))
    3) Is Dec holidays ok to do the hike
    4) What is the wildlife we need to watch out for (and enjoy!)
    5) Is there only one Helicopter service (the one I called is not operating currently)

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Hi Altu. Yes, a day trip wouldn’t be possible. There is nothing to buy or rent at the Hilltop — it’s just a parking lot. I don’t remember exactly what they have in the stores for food. Nothing too special — lots of canned goods. I’m not sure if they are open in December, so I would call first. We didn’t see any wildlife. 🙂 Yes, there is only one helicopter service. You may want to visit at a time when they are operating.

  43. luvlululemon says:

    Thanks for the advice. I was also wondering about the water & food source. Can I drink from the stream if I bring a brita water filter? I the small cafe next to the waterfall or the hotel. We are staying at the havasupai lodge. Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions.

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      No problem! There is a cafe next to the Lodge. I’m not sure about drinking the water from the stream — I only know about the water from the springs at the campground. You can buy water at the market near the Lodge though.

  44. I’m planning to go to Havasu Falls in this Oct. but I’m not planning to hike due to my disability. I would like to take a helicopter ride round trip. Do you have more information on the helicopter ride? I was told that waiting list is very long and its not first come first serve.

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Hi Jade. We got in line for the helicopter ride at around 7am and we were one of the first in line. The helicopter doesn’t arrive until 10am and they will take tribe members first. It’s a lot of waiting, but as long as the weather is good, you will get down the mountain. Just keep in mind, if you plan on camping, there is another 2-mile hike from where the helicopter drops you off. There is a hotel near the heli pad if you want to avoid the hike. Have fun!

  45. Hi! Thanks for all the great info and amazing pictures! I am planning a trip to Havasu Falls in late March. I was wondering how many days/nights you spent in the canyon? How much hiking did you do while in the canyon? And, the picture of the girl in the river with the tent in the background, is that the campground??? It is soooo beautiful!

    1. Ordinary Traveler says:

      Hi Kat!

      We are so glad you found this post helpful! We spent 2 nights in the canyon and 1 night in the parking lot. We would have loved to stay longer and would suggest at least 3 nights in the canyon if you have the time. We hiked around a bit from our campsite. Scott went down to Mooney Falls, but unfortunately didn’t get to stay very long because we were hit with a scary thunderstorm with powerful gusts of wind.

      We hiked up to Havasu Falls and Navajo Falls quite a few times. These are fairly short hikes. Our legs were very sore from the hike down, so it would have been nice to have a day to recoup so we had more energy to hike even further down the canyon.

      That photo is Christy right in front of our campsite!! It is really an amazing place. Highly recommended. Let us know if you need any more info!

  46. Ordinary Traveler says:

    It’s definitely still worth visiting if you don’t mind the hike! 😉

  47. Ordinary Traveler says:

    No problem! Glad you enjoyed the post, Kevin.