TLC once said don’t go chasing waterfalls, but I’ve always been quite a rebel. If you enjoy hiking in canyons, swimming in beautiful turquoise waters, and sleeping under the stars then Supai, Arizona should be on your adventure list! You’ll not only get to experience the famous Havasupai Falls but also Mooney Falls, Navajo Falls, Fifty Foot Falls, Beaver Falls, and more. Guidelines, rules and regulations visiting this home of the Havasupai tribe’s reservation, and since this was my second time hiking this beauty, I’ve done all the work and research for you and I’m officially declaring myself your ION Arizona Tour Guide. And no, that gorgeous model in the photo isn’t me, its my new friend Alex Perez.
Booking Your Reservation
The hardest part is securing a reservation. But since 2017, you can now make camping reservations online. And as of 2019 all reservations should be online only, but lodge reservations are—as of this most recent expedition—still made by phone. We stayed at the newly remodeled lodge with indoor plumbing because… you know… indoor plumbing! I like my hot showers after all the dusty hiking and frolicking in the falls.
You need to understand you’ll be hiking over ten miles and make sure you’re physically capable. Now you’re ready to make your hiking reservations through the canyon and on tribal land at HavasupaiReservations.com
Lodge: (928) 448-2111 or (928) 448-2201
Patience is a virtue when you’re trying to call and book the lodge. Unless you get lucky, you can be on your phone for a while waiting someone to answer. Only a deposit is required when booking your appointment and the full payment is due at check-in.
Fees for 2020:
$100 per person per weekday night
$125 per person per weekend night (Friday/Saturday/Sunday nights)
ALL campground reservations are three nights / four days, meaning the total for each person can range from $300-$375
Lodge reservations are $440 per room, per night and require a deposit of $100 per room per night. Rooms accommodate up to 4 people. New to 2020 is a $110 entrance/environmental fee charged per person visiting the reservation. Average price for a two night stay for four people will run about $330.
Prices include all necessary permits, fees, taxes, and are non-negotiable, and are subject to change without notice.
Tips on scoring a permit
* Book as soon as possible, at least a year to a year and a half in advance
* Look at weekday dates
* Try the shoulder seasons (peak is May to August)
* Join a hiking or outdoors groups (members may be planning trips and when someone cancels they usually post about opening in these types of group pages)
What to Pack
Basic backpacking gear is recommended for Supai. If you’re only planning on staying in a tent, bring a tent but if you have a hammock and are comfortable sleeping in it you can leave your tent behind. Check the weather for possible rain.
Trekking poles
Eating utensil
Solar-powered lantern
Headlamp
Water bladder (3 liter bladder is recommended)
Ear plugs
Travel sized toiletries
Toilet paper
Bug spray
Sunscreen
Small first aid kit
Moleskin to prevent blisters
Day pack
Hat/cap for sun protection
Dryfit tops
Athletic shorts and or pants
Dryfit undergarments
Hiking boots
Moisture wicking socks
Swimsuit
Water shoes
Travel towel
Electrolytes
Food (Tuna, PB&J)
Snacks (jerky, trail mix, protein bars)
It’s difficult to pin point everything you’ll need, but I hope this list will help your adventure. If you decide to go, be sure to enjoy your trip to Supai and have a blast at these magnificent falls! And if you need an actual scout and tour guide, just reach out and I’m happy to join your crew!