An Unforgettable Journey to Havasupai’s Hidden Waterfalls

Some adventures are worth the wait, and for me, Havasupai had been at the top of my bucket list for years. So, when my friends David and Amanda (@rollinboles) invited me to join them on a trip to this breathtaking oasis hidden deep in Arizona’s Grand Canyon, my answer was an easy and immediate yes! Their plan made it even more exciting—they wanted to bring wedding attire and capture some anniversary photos to celebrate 11 years together.

But first, we had to get permits. Access to Havasupai is highly limited, with a competitive annual lottery system, and there’s never a guarantee of getting in. Amanda and I were ready at our computers the moment registration opened, refreshing the page and hoping for the best. Luck was on our side—Amanda snagged our permits right away.

With the hardest part behind us, we focused on preparing for the trip. The journey required a 10-mile hike down into the canyon to reach the village, where we had the choice of camping or staying in the lodge. We opted for the lodge—more expensive, but completely worth it for a real bed and a hot shower after long days of hiking. Our group also included KC from Winsome Photography, and having another photographer along made the trip even more fun.

The Descent into Paradise

The hike into the canyon was long but manageable. Going downhill made it easier, though we couldn’t help but think about the climb back up that awaited us. As we neared the village, we caught our first glimpse of Havasupai’s famous turquoise waters. Seeing that crystal-clear blue against the red canyon walls was surreal, and I knew right then this place would be unlike anything I’d ever experienced.

After checking into the lodge and grabbing a quick snack, we set out to explore the first of many waterfalls. Little Navajo Falls was our first stop, and even though the water was freezing, there was no way we weren’t getting in. Next, we hiked down to the iconic Havasu Falls, and when we rounded the final corner and saw it from above, I almost screamed. It was that breathtaking—one of the most stunning places I’ve ever laid eyes on. We spent the afternoon soaking in the beauty, taking photos, and even meeting up with some of Amanda and David’s friends, Thomas & Victoria (Project RV: Living Lost) who happened to be there at the same time.

Sunrise at Havasu Falls & the Descent into Mooney Falls

The next morning, we woke before sunrise and made our way back to Havasu Falls for their anniversary photos. Amanda changed into her wedding dress at a picnic table near the falls, and KC and I captured the two of them in the dreamy early morning light, surrounded by that unreal blue water.

From there, we hiked to Mooney Falls, knowing we had a challenge ahead. The descent is no joke—you have to scale down a 200-foot cliff, gripping onto chains as water from the falls makes the rocks slick. The final stretch includes a sketchy wooden ladder, and I won’t lie—it was one of the most nerve-wracking climbs I’ve ever done. But once we made it to the bottom, it was absolutely worth it. The way the morning light filtered through the canyon created beams of light that took my breath away.

After spending time at Mooney Falls, we pushed onward to Beaver Falls—a longer trek involving multiple river crossings through waist-deep water. When we finally arrived, we ditched the wedding attire and simply enjoyed the moment, splashing in the pools and taking in the scenery.

One Last Day & an Unexpected Exit

Our final full day in Havasupai was spent exploring 50-Foot Falls and soaking up every last bit of time in this paradise. We finished the evening at Little Navajo Falls, snacking on whatever food we had left and reflecting on the incredible experience.

Then came the reality of the 10-mile uphill hike back out. After three days and hiking 38 miles, we weren’t exactly eager to take on that climb—especially with KC nursing a hip injury from an earlier slip. We made a last-minute decision to try for helicopter seats instead. KC got in line at 4:00 a.m., and we joined her later, crossing our fingers. Thankfully, we made the cut and took a four-minute ride out of the canyon instead of spending hours hiking uphill. It was my first time in a helicopter, and even though it was quick, it was an unforgettable way to end an already epic adventure.

Havasupai was everything I had dreamed of and more. The vibrant blue water, towering canyon walls, and sense of complete isolation made it feel like another world. I don’t know when, but I will be back someday. Until then, I’ll be reliving this trip in my mind, grateful for the memories made with amazing friends in one of the most magical places on earth.