Canyon’s Hasavu Falls closed through August

Havasu Falls, the bucket-list Arizona hiking and camping destination in a remote corner of the Grand Canyon, will remain closed to tourists through Aug. 31 due to flooding damage, tribal officials announced Tuesday.

That is significantly longer than officials originally projected. When flash flooding on July 11 and 12 forced the evacuation of about 200 tourists by helicopter, the Havasupai Tribal Council said it expected the attraction with the famous blue-green waterfalls would close for seven to 10 days. At the high end of that range, the campground would have reopened last Sunday.

Northern Arizona was hit with more heavy rain immediately after the flash flooding and tribal officials say the extended closure is needed to repair the campground and make sure the trails are safe.

Travelers from around the world compete each year for a coveted camping reservation and the Instagram bragging rights that come with a visit. It is a 10-mile hike from the trailhead to the campground, which is between two of the signature waterfalls, Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls.

Tourists with coming camping reservations or room reservations at the 24room Havasupai Lodge in Supai, 2 miles from the campground, will have to reschedule. Refunds will not be given.

Travelers affected by the closure should call the tourist office at 928-4482141 to reschedule. Officials urge patience because the number of phone lines is limited.

The sudden closure on July 12 left travelers on their way to Arizona and Havasupai scrambling to make alternative plans. Now more travelers will find themselves searching for a Plan B.