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Havasupai Falls , Arizona (May 2004) 3 Days Total Miles- 25 Our next trip took us to the Havasupai Indian Reservation. The place was a waterfall haven in the middle of the driest and most remote area imaginable. The 10 mile hike to the campground took us through a massive red rock valley of the Grand Canyon. The hike got better and better till the finale.... a crystal clear river teaming with pools and waterfalls. We had an exciting dayhike on the second day and discovered a swimming hole that I will never forget- Towering walls of red rock surrounding the oasis.
It was a 500 mi drive to the trailhead from San Diego. Sam and I got off work and drove into the night through the Mohave Desert to meet my parents in Kingman, AZ.
Here we are at the trailhead the next morning. Looking down the valley was intimidating knowing we would be hiking down into its depths.
Sam, Clay and Mary Ann leading the way down the many switchbacks to the valley floor.
We followed a wash for many miles, as we kept loosing elevation the surrounding walls got closer and closer together.
Until we were beneath them.
One more reason this backpacking trip was so unique and enjoyable. Look who's carrying our packs the 10 mi in and out. The local Native Americans were gracious and intriguing as they passed by.
8 miles later the valley of vertical red walls suddenly opened up. We continued into the Supai Indian village. I could not help to think that the only reason that it was still here was the white man had no access to these people and there was nothing here to take.
We made it! Another 2 miles past the village we entered another canyon, this one with a river of blue spring water that dropped off Havasu Falls. After a long day of hiking all we wanted to do was jump in, and that is exactly what we did.
Cooling off below Havasu falls. The water is chilly, but inviting.
Sam and I pose under yet another set of nearby falls.
You can't tell from this picture but the campground here is packed with people along the river.
Sam at the start of where the days hike would get "interesting"
The next morning we were up early we were not prepared for a day of what I call, "Adventure hiking." Our destination was Beaver Falls. Only my Dad would have a day hike like this planned. We started out with a group of 12, but only 4 made it. The hike required a 100 ft. vertical descent down chains/caves shown here with Sam and Paulette, 3 river crossings, a vertical 15 ft. rope climb, and a trail-less rock hop down to the falls.
Dan entering the abyss.
Boots in hand for the river crossings, at least we knew that we could not get lost. All we had to do is follow the canyon. Then we were there looking down on another set of falls that looked inviting from the slopes high above. It was a steep scramble down, but I had to take a dip.
The payoff - Me enjoying Beaver falls
More pictures along the trail as we headed back up the valley towards camp.
My Dad was awarded picture of the trip with this stunning shot.
The next morning we were up early to get our packs to the mules and a head start on the desert heat. It was a solid hike out and we all felt great after a wonderful few days in the canyon.
Every turn of the trail during these 3 days was a new surprise. This was like nothing we had experienced before. The warmth of the desert both in temperature and in color made us feel as if we could have stayed another few days. How refreshing it is to realize that areas of our beautiful country are still relatively untouched and to many unknown. Havasupai will be seeing us again in the future. MOVIE |
