The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Havasu Falls: Permits, Costs, and What to Expect in 2025
Havasu Falls, Arizona
Visiting Havasu Falls is one of the most bucket-list-worthy adventures in the Southwest, but getting there requires some serious planning. The lottery system, limited permits, and seasonal considerations make it a challenge—but trust us, it’s worth every step of the journey.
Hualapai Hilltop Trailhead
We visited in early October 2019, flying into Las Vegas, renting a car, and driving to the Hualapai Hilltop Trailhead. The hike in was magical, the waterfalls were breathtaking, and despite the challenges (hello, Mooney Falls chains and sneaky campsite rodents), it was one of the best backpacking trips we’ve ever done.
Hualapai Hilltop Trailhead
Since then, a lot has changed—including permit costs, reservation systems, and even trail closures. Whether you’re planning your first trip or a return visit, here’s everything you need to know about getting to Havasu Falls in 2025.
Classic 2019 Instagram Shot ;)
Havasu Falls Permits: The Lottery System & Costs
How to Get a Permit
Unlike back in 2019 when we scored permits through an open reservation system, Havasupai now operates on a lottery system.
Here’s how it works:
1️⃣ Create an Account at HavasupaiReservations.com
2️⃣ Enter the Lottery (February 1st each year)
3️⃣ If Selected, Purchase a Permit within 48 hours
4️⃣ Cancellations & Transfers – If you don’t get a permit, you can check for transfers on the official site
Havasu Falls
Costs (2025 Pricing)
The permit now includes 3 nights minimum in the campground, covering all fees: (honestly, I wouldn’t go any less than that anyway)!
💰 $395–$455 per person (depending on the season)
🛖 Lodge Permits (when available) cost about $440 per night for up to 4 people
🐴 Pack Mule & Helicopter Options are available (more on that below)
There are no day hikes allowed—you must stay overnight. All costs in USD.
Getting to Havasupai: Driving & Parking
The Route We Took
Flew into Las Vegas (Alternative: Phoenix)
Rented a car and drove 4.5–5 hours to the Hualapai Hilltop Trailhead
Left our car at the trailhead while backpacking
🚗 Parking: We had no issues leaving our rental car at the trailhead for 4 days. There’s no official parking lot—just a large dirt lot. It’s safe but gets crowded, so arrive early if possible.
Poolside at the Aria
Hiking Into Havasu Falls: What to Expect
Day 1: 🏞️ Hualapai Hilltop to Havasu Campground
16 km (10 miles) one way
2,400 ft descent into the canyon
We hiked in the evening to avoid the heat, which worked out well! The trail starts with a steep switchback descent before levelling out into a long canyon walk to Supai Village (where you check in). From there, it’s another 3.2 km (2 miles) to the campground.
Note: If you miss the check-in cut off on the way in you will have to hike back here the next morning to check-in.
Choosing a Campsite
🏕️ First-Come, First-Serve: Getting in late we had to hunt for a spot, the reservation system helps control the crowds but getting in early gives you the best chance to find your perfect spot.
📍 Our Spot: We lucked out and grabbed a prime campsite near the top of Mooney Falls—secluded and scenic, but slightly longer to get to.
🐭 Rodent Warning: The squirrels and mice are relentless. Even with a food hang, we still had issues! Use a bear canister or sealed vault to keep them out.
Morning at camp
Exploring Havasu Falls & the Other Waterfalls
We had three full days to explore, and we packed in as much adventure as possible.
Little Navajo Falls
Day 2: Havasu Falls, Little Navajo Falls & Fifty Foot Falls
Backtracked to Havasu Falls for morning views (and to check-in)
Swam at Little Navajo Falls
Explored Fifty Foot Falls—this one was our favourite for swimming!
Fifty Foot Falls
Mooney Falls Trail, Havasupi
Mooney Falls Trail, Havasupi
Mooney Falls Trail, Havasupi
Mooney Falls Trail, Havasupi
Day 3: Mooney Falls & Beaver Falls
Mooney Falls was as sketchy as the stories say—climbing down through wet tunnels, chains, and ladders on slippery rock. I didn’t think I’d get Matt to do it again on Day 3… but somehow I convinced him!
🥾 From Mooney we headed out to Beaver Falls, this trail was really cool and meandered back and forth across Havasu Creek. We attempted to reach The Confluence (where Havasu Creek meets the Colorado River) but missed the trail and ran out of time. It’s a 16-mile round trip from camp, so if you’re aiming for it, start early!
Beaver Falls, Havasupi
Beaver Falls Trail
Little Navajo Falls
Seasonality & Best Time to Go
We visited in early October, and it was perfect.
☀️ Best Time to Visit:
March–May (cooler weather, high water levels)
September–October (pleasant temps, fewer bugs)
🔥 Worst Time: Summer (June–August) is brutally hot, and the trail often closes due to monsoons or extreme heat.
Fifty Foot Falls
How to Get Your Gear In (Pack, Mule, or Helicopter?)
Since we carried all our own gear and food, we can confirm:
✅ The hike is doable with a full pack
❌ But it’s tough, especially on the way out
Views of Havasu Falls from the trail on the hike out
For those who don’t want to carry everything:
🐴 Pack Mule Services
Can haul up to 4 bags (50 lbs max each)
Must be booked in advance
Costs around $400+ round trip
🚁 Helicopter Ride
Operates on select days
Flies from Hualapai Hilltop to Supai Village (NOT all the way to camp)
$100+ per person one way
First-come, first-serve (no pre-booking)
🚶♀️ Our Recommendation? If you’re comfortable backpacking, hike in and out—it’s part of the adventure. If you need assistance, the mule service is more reliable than the helicopter.
Mooney Falls
Final Tips for an Epic Havasupai Trip
✔️ Check Your Fuel – Gas is limited near the trailhead, so fuel up before heading in.
✔️ Train for the Hike – It’s a long trek with a heavy pack—prepare accordingly.
✔️ Water is Readily Available – There’s a natural spring in the campground (but bring a filter).
✔️ Pack Light but Smart – Quick-dry clothes, good hiking shoes, and a waterproof bag for electronics.
✔️ Respect the Land & Leave No Trace – The Havasupai Tribe allows visitors, but it’s their home—treat it with care.
Havasu Falls
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