17 ARIZONA

Havasu Falls

Havasu Falls is the first waterfall you see after hiking the strenuous 10 miles to Havasupai Falls tribal lands at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. Turning the corner and seeing this majestic work of nature makes the grueling hike more than worth it. On our journey, my friends and I trekked through rain. When we arrived at the falls, the contrast between the stormy sky and vivid turquoise-blue water was a reminder that nature is always beautiful, regardless of what the weather brings.

BLUE-GREEN WATERS

This land is owned by the Havasupai tribe, who live in a village near the falls. Havasupai means “people of the blue-green waters.” A chemical reaction occurs among minerals in the water, whi h then refle ts sunlight to produce the striking turquoise color.

PLAN AHEAD

To protect local residents during the pandemic, this area is temporarily closed to hiking as of this writing. When open, reservations and a fee are required for the 10-mile hike to the falls, campground and areas beyond. havasupaireservations.com