Havasu Falls (Havasupai) are famous for their five dramatic plunges and unbelievable turquoise waters. Havasu Creek seethes from a spring and flows down a canyon, creating halcyon pools. A dramatic landscape will make you do nothing but relax, swim, take photos, and of course, explore.
The colour of the water is the result of having been stored underground for as much as 30,000 years. While underground, the water washes off calcium, magnesium and other minerals from the limestone. Saturation by minerals and reflection of the sunlight—this is what exactly makes the water turquoise.
Navajo Falls is also located in the Havasu Canyon, just 0.6 mi (965 m) from Havasu Falls. It was formed by the result of a flash flood in August of 2008. The flood changed the landscape of the canyon, but it also created another waterfall to admire. The site stuns with beautiful cascades connecting Upper Navajo Falls and Lower Navajo Falls. Upper Navajo Falls is quite hard to find, but Lower Falls can be easily spotted from the trail between Supai Village and the Havasupai Campground. Some visitors bring floating devices like tubes to enjoy the pool below Upper Navajo Falls.
The best time to visit Havasu Falls is between March and November. If you are into swimming and hiking, spring and autumn are the best for fewer crowds and pleasant weather conditions. Summer is hot and crowded, and July and August bring monsoons with sudden rainstorms. It might ruin your hiking experience and, well, the brown water isn't as appealing as the promised turquoise hues. Nevertheless, late summer remains the peak of the high season.
Winter is too cold to enjoy swimming or camping. Moreover, campgrounds usually close in December and January. But, if you don't mind the cold, then it might be a good idea to visit without crowds.
Practical info
When is the best time to explore the Havasu and Navajo falls in Arizona?
The most suitable time to visit the Havasu and Navajo falls in Arizona is from March to November. You can experience wonderful weather conditions, low crowds during the spring and fall months. Try to avoid visiting in July and August due to high temperatures and large crowds. It's also recommended avoiding monsoons that may bring unexpected rainfalls, affecting your hiking experience. Winters are extremely cold that may not be suitable for camping or swimming. Additionally, camps generally remain closed in December and January. Show more
What is the location of the Havasu and Navajo Waterfalls in the Grand Canyon?
Located within the Grand Canyon, the Havasu and Navajo Falls are placed in the Havasu Canyon. The Havasu Creek follows through the canyon and tailors exquisite turquoise pools. The Navajo Falls is located within 0.6 miles from the Havasu Falls, which resulted from a sudden flash flood in 2008. Finding the Upper Navajo Falls can be quite a task, while the Lower Navajo Falls is quickly recognizable from the Supai Village to the Havasupai Campground trek. Show more
What makes the color of the water so extraordinary in Havasu and Navajo Falls?
The water at the Havasu and Navajo Falls appears turquoise due to the process of mineral saturation. The spring water collects underground and stores minerals such as calcium and magnesium from the limestone throughout 30,000 years. The minerals accumulation and sunlight reflection convert the water into an alluring turquoise shade. Show more
Is swimming possible in the falls during the winter months?
The winter months, being very cold in Havasu and Navajo Falls, do not discourage visitors from swimming in the falls, provided they can tolerate the sudden temperature drop. However, the campgrounds are usually closed by December and January. Ensure to plan and prepare accordingly before visiting during this time. Show more
How can one reach the Upper Navajo Falls, and is it feasible for everyone?
Reaching the Upper Navajo Falls can be a little challenging, as there are no specific markings. Hikers will have to walk through some steep areas and watch out for cairns, small piles of rock. The trail may not be easy to access for all the visitors. On the other hand, Lower Navajo Falls can be easily spotted from the path connecting Supai Village and Havasupai Campground. Show more
