Havasupai Indian Reservation

This hike is well documented, and I must say quite accurately all over the web.  Getting there is relatively easy, as it is downhill to the Indian village.  The first 2 miles are steep switchbacks.  Once the switchbacks are behind you, you find yourself in a slot canyon.  For the next 6 miles, the crunching of gravel beneath your feet will echo off of the sandstone walls which surround your every move.  Water is your biggest ally in this barren wash; bring plenty with you.  Once in the village, you must stop and pay for your stay.  There is a small supply store in this village and a post office.  The one thing that may be understated is the last 2 miles with most of it being sand.  These final 2 miles do suck the life out of you after almost 8 miles of hiking.

The hike out can be mind numbing.  On my last visit, I actually rode a helicopter out allowing more time to enjoy the rest of the vacation.  However, the first time I trekked down to this heavenly spot, I found myself in a hellish predicament.  As I stated earlier, water is your biggest ally.  I ran out just prior to the final 2 mile ascent.  It was 100+ and about 3pm.  I suggested to wait until the sun lowered behind the canyon walls, but the 2 people I was with voted to go for it.  It was the longest 2 miles of my life.  Severe dehydration!  "God is that you?".......  We eventually made it; it was dark out.


Last year, 2008, one week after enjoying the paridise of Havasupai, a historic flash flood roared through this fragile environment.  I am sure a lot has changed since my last visit.  The tribe has almost fully recovered and plans to reopen June 1, 2009.