A Hike Along the Blue-Green Waters of Havasu Creek to Epic Cascading Falls

A DEBRIEF

First, if you have never experienced the Havasupai Trail, then you need to read this article to obtain in-depth prep insight on the trail, location, reservation details, gear lists, accommodation suggestions, and other useful information. Second, you need to get yourself and all your gear down the canyon and set up in the Havasupai Campground. Only then can you even consider visiting Beaver Falls and all its blue-green cascading glory.

Quick Links:

• Trailhead Location: Hualapai Hilltop
• Reservation Website: www.havasupaireservations.com
• Packing Lists
• Recommended VRBOs for Havasupai hikers
• Havasupai Trail: How to Get a Reservation (and Actually Be Ready)

The Road to Beaver Falls

Day 1 is for getting down the canyon and setting up, with casual visits to nearby Havasu and Mooney Falls. But Day 2 is the day I like to do my longest hike while in the Canyon. If I am not making the round trip trek to where Havasu Creek meets the Colorado River (that will be a 14-miler), then you next best bet is along that same path: Beaver Falls. I actually have not made it to the Colorado…probably because Beaver Falls is SO enjoyable, it is a bit hard to leave!

My suggestion: pack all you could possibly need for a successful day-hike. I indulged and strapped my camping chair tightly to my *waterproof day-pack, filled my water from the spring, and packed the *Jetboil, noodles, snacks, a swimsuit, water shoes, and a *headlamp. However, I would not suggest a large pack: the first obstacle is to get through the narrow passageway and down the side of the canyon wall to the base of Mooney Falls.

At nearly 200 feet, Mooney is the tallest waterfall along the Havasupai Trail, which in turn means you have a steep climb down. Some parts you must enter into a rock wall chute, and the Tribe has thankfully installed ropes, chains, iron rungs, and ladders for the hikers. That being written, it is still a very intimidating climb. The mist from the powerful Mooney coats everything in a lingering slickness which adds some discomfort when moving through the narrow and dark path. Not to mention, the waterfall is loud, and depending on your timing there could be few or many people climbing single file. Taking your time is good, but too much will impact many others in this section.

Healthy trees and bushes line the path; during the summer the berry bushes were taller than me! I found the hike itself to not be super challenging, though, I did lose the trail during a crossing or two. And there are some janky ladders and bridges that increase the difficulty factor. But at the third mile you will be at Beaver Falls and all its cascading glory. Lots to appreciate here! We found secluded spots, mini jumps, and chill areas to enjoy.

Hopefully you clocked your time so you can estimate your return. Since you are in a canyon, the sun is slim so you need to consider this on the return home. If during your return it gets a little dark, your headlamp will be essential…there are no fires allowed in the canyon. This one time when my headlamp died right outside of my campsite…I could not believe how black it was around me, and how vulnerable I felt.

Hence, that is why extra batteries are now a standard gear item. Learned that lesson too many times.

Until the next waterfall review!

Ren Fou