Getting In & Out

There are several options for getting in and out of Havasupai. When deciding how you will get in and out of this big hole, you will need to take a couple things into consideration. First of all, know your limitations. For a backpacking hike, the terrain is fairly easy, except for the switchbacks on the way out. However, it is ten miles one way and carrying a 30-40 pound pack on your back the whole way can make your Havasupai experience rather painful. So it's important to be sure to condition yourself prior to the trip through both cardio and strength training. The next thing you need to consider is what it is that you want to get out of the trip. Are you looking to challenge yourself or is it the experience of just being in Havasupai you are wanting? So with those in mind, the following are your options:

• Hiking w/pack - This is the most difficult. Be sure to pack light and correctly (see the links to the right).
• Mule - A pack horse/mule can carry up to four packs for about $93.50. To reserve your mule you'll need to do so at least one day in advance. In the past, most of our group has chosen to have their packs sent out on mule. If you want to do this, it's easiest if you make arrangements with two to three other people prior to the hike in, otherwise you'll have to hike two miles back into the village on Saturday and miss out on valuable time you could be spending playing in the falls. You can also have you pack muled in, but you'll need to call Havasupai to arrange this prior to the drive up. Plus, you'll have to wait till Thursday morning to drop your pack off before making the hike in. If you do do this, be sure to make arrangements with some other hikers so you're not hiking in by yourself. Also, mules aren't just for packs. If it's the experience of riding in on mule you desire, for the same price this can also be an option. You'll just need to call Havasupai prior to the trip to arrange this. Check out the Official Havasupai website (link is to the right) for specifics.
• Helicopter - I think everyone should experience this at least once in their life. The cost is $85 one way and totally worth it. It gets you from the the hilltop to the village in about five minutes. From the village you will still need to hike two miles to get to the campgrounds. Also, know that injuries happen (I sprained my ankle pretty bad my first year) so be sure to bring extra cash or a credit card just in case you need to take the helicopter out. I also opted one year to take the helicopter in, which made the whole experience even that much more enjoyable, since I wasn't sore from the hike in. If you're interested in doing this, please check out the official Havasuapi website for more info (the link is to your right).