This is the only hike I have ever written about that received 5 stars in my hike rankings! Havasupai has everything and is arguably my favorite place on earth! I tell everyone it honestly reminds me of a scene from Jurassic Park. I can’t say I have ever seen such natural beauty, with hiking, adventuring and being unplugged from the world for 3-4 days. This hike can be grueling on the way out but it just adds to the feeling of accomplishment.
The combination of the outdoors, being cut off completely from civilization, the feeling of accomplishment from hiking in and out with a 50lb pack and not to mention the miles of unique beauty are unrivaled. I have been lucky enough to make the trip a few times and each day has been just as amazing as the one before it.
I have hiked all over the world and honestly the combination of all these factors make it arguably one of the best hikes in the world. I have gotten into debates with people who travel and hike more than I do and they were at a loss when trying to name something that was significantly better. Surely Machu Picchu or Everest are next level as well but this hike is a perfect length, a nice long-weekend getaway and gives you unsurpassed beauty.
How do you get a permit or pass for Havasupai Falls?
If you want more see this guide for a complete guide to Havasupai Falls
The hike itself isn’t too bad but if you have a 30-50 pound bag you will definitely be tested, especially on the way out and that last mile back up to the hilltop. Keep in mind that not only will you be hiking 10 miles in and out but you will also hike at least 10 miles while down there to explore Beaver falls or even 20 miles if you go all the way down to the Confluence. Overall you will do 30-50 miles of hiking over 3 days so be prepared!
The effort is worth it though, the main waterfall the hike is known for might be the lesser of the 3 and is definitely #2 on the list. Not to mention that truly the entire area down there uncovers mile after mile of unique views and nature in all of its glory.
When is the best time to go to Havasupai?
After going multiple times I think hands down go in the cooler months. Having gone in the summer, september, late February and March I loved the February and March months much more. Keep in mind the water temperature never changes from around 70 degrees so it will actually feel warmer in the cooler months and colder in the summer.
While sleeping at night is definitely cold, pack appropriately, and the hiking alone is so much better when it is cooler out. The 17.5 miles round-trip to The Confluence and the 10 mile hike out can be excruciating of it is 80+ degrees. Again if you want a complete guide to answer every question about the Havasupai Hike, see this article here for the complete Havasupai Falls Guide.
