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Havasupai How-To

Entering the area is regulated. The Havasupai Tribe Tourist Enterprise is in charge here.
Permits are (allegedly) available by calling these four numbers starting on February 1st of each year: (928) 448-2180 (928) 448-2121 (928) 448-2141 (928) 448-2237
I have never actually had someone answer any of these numbers. When I registered in the office upon arrival, I asked if this is where the phone calls come. They said, yes. The phone never rang once. Curious.
An online reservation site was launched quietly on February 2, 2017. It had crashed by February 3rd. But, I was quick. This is how I got permits. The site is currently still down. Check here for updates on the latest and greatest reservation info: theofficialhavasupaitribe.com

Hualapai Hilltop to Supai village – 8 miles (13km)
Supai village to campground – 2 miles (3km) (Havasu Falls are located at the south end of the campground. Mooney falls are located at the north end of the campground)
Campground to Beaver Falls – 2 miles (3km)
Campground to Colorado River – 8 miles (13km)

The campground is long and narrow. Pick a spot, any spot! When visiting in April, we had our pick, and it seemed that each group had their own picnic table and general site. I understand that in the summer, with more visitors and more large groups, the campground becomes a lot more cramped. It could get cozy. Meet your neighbours.
At the south end, the sites are on the west side of the creek, but if you go toward the north end of the campground, there are sites on both sides. The ones on the east are a bit more private. If you’re into that.
There were gophers and some local dogs roaming around, so people were hanging their food bags in trees, presumably to keep four-legged visitors out of tents. I followed suit. But, something pecked a hole in it hanging in the tree just the same…
The water source, a natural spring that runs continuously out of a pvc pipe in the canyon wall is at the south end of the campground.
There are a number of eco-toilets located throughout the campground.
PACK OUT YOUR GARBAGE. I was surprised to see trash cans in the outhouses. Even more surprised to see people actually putting their trash in them. The trash cans were, not surprisingly, overflowing with chip bags and food garbage. Don’t be that hiker. Pack out what you pack in.

It is possible to helicopter in and/or out. Airwest is the private company that runs the helicopter service. One way trip is $85.
Helicopter rides are on a first-come, first-served basis. Tribe members have priority. The hours are 10am to 1pm.
I hiked out at 6am and people were already lining up.

I signed a waiver upon arrival. I read it only after returning home. Probably some good information here!
Watch out for and respect SNAKES AND SCORPIONS. Shake out your shoes before putting them on.
No water is available on the trail between the Hilltop trailhead and the village.
Horses/mules have the right of way on the trail. Watch out!

May 5, 2017 By Nicole Farn