The Grand Canyon is a canyon that truly lives up to its name. It is one of the world's greatest natural wonders and everyone should visit it. Plan ahead and one of the best ways to explore the Grand Canyon is by horseback (actually mule) riding down into the might canyon. But available space for horse riding is limited so for most people the best way to explore it is by hiking.

One of the most eye-watering attractions in the canyon to hike to is the vaunted Havasu Falls. Havasu Falls is without a doubt one of the great things to do in the Grand Canyon. While visiting, keep one's eyes peeled for the wildlife in the Grand Canyon!

What To Know About The Canyon's Havasu Falls

The Havasu Falls is not located in the national park but within Havasupai tribal lands. They are around 1.5 miles from Supai and are one of the most famous waterfalls in the Grand Canyon.

  • Located: in Havasupai Tribal Lands (Not In The Grand Canyon National Park)

The Havasu Falls plummet 90-to-100-feet (27 to 30 meters) over the vertical cliff into a series of plunge pools. The color of the water is heavenly owing to its high calcium carbonate concentration. That gives them a vivid blue-green color. The calcium carbonate forms natural travertine dams near the falls.

  • Height: 90 to 100 feet or 27 to 30 Meters
  • Color: A Vivid Blue Green

There are plenty of picnic tables on the opposite side of the creek - so hike in with a packed lunch.

Between the trailhead at the parking lot and the Supai Village, there is no drinking water so be sure to take plenty.

One can also swim behind the falls and check out the small rock shelter behind the falls. Be careful if one does decide to swim around the falls as there have been drownings in the past.

Related: The Depth Of The Grand Canyon (& Other Little Known Facts)

Getting To and Visiting Havasu Falls

  • Supia Village: Has A General Store and Cafe

If one would really like to experience the stunning grandeur of the Grand Canyon, then camp there. There is a campground 2 miles hike from Havasu Falls.

The official season for visiting the area is between February and November although in the summer months (June to August) the trail may be closed due to flooding and extreme heat. The best time to go is when it's cooler and before (or after) the large crowds of tourists.

  • Summer: Trail May Be Closed To Flooding or Extreme Heat - above 115°F / 46°C

The trek to the falls is quite difficult and one should be careful to be sufficiently fit. There are switchbacks and an elevation of 1,800 feet in the first two miles. If one is going in the summer heat, it will be even more difficult.

While the Havasu Falls are the main attraction there are two more waterfalls just north of the campground on Havasu Falls Trail.

  • Forbidden Items: It Is Forbidden to Take Alcohol, Drugs, Drones, and Weapons Into the Havasupai Reservation

Related: See The Grand Canyon In A New Way On This Railroad

Accommodation And Permits For Havasu Falls

As Havasu Falls is on the Havasupai Indian Reservation, one will need to get a permit to visit it. Plan ahead to get the permit, the season's dates go live on February 1 at 8 a.m. (MST). To visit and get the permit, visitors need at least a one-night reservation. Options include the campground or Havasupai Lodge, aka "the Lodge" in Supai Village. Booking these accommodations includes the permit and other fees.

  • Permit: One Needs A Permit From The Havasupai Indian Reservation To Visit
  • Tip: Permits Sell Out In Minutes
  • Accommodation: The Campground Or The Havasupai Lodge

The Havasu Falls Campground:

Specific sites can not be reserved at the campsite and one can set up camp wherever one likes in the designated camping areas. It is recommended by Visitarizona.com to make a campground reservation and account at their website (HavasupaiReservations.com) before February. Reservations at the campground are for three nights and four days - no more, no less.

Price:

  • $100: Monday - Thursday
  • $125: Friday - Sunday

The Havasupai Lodge:

The other option is to stay at the Havasupai Lodge. The lodge is 2 miles from the falls and is no-frills accommodation. While one can only make a reservation for the campground online, one can only make a reservation for the lodge by phone. If no one answers the phone, just keep on calling.

  • Call: (928) 448-2111 To Make a Reservation At The Lodge
  • Price: Four Person Room $440 Per Night

In addition to the cost of the room, there is also a $110 entrance and environmental fee per person.

So next time one visits the Grand Canyon, visit the Havasu Falls - but just be sure to plan ahead as the permits are sold out in minutes.

Next: A Day At Bearizona: Arizona's Ultimate American Wildlife Safari