Watch this BEFORE YOU GO | Backpacking Havasupai- The Full Trip Report

This is the "no frills" Full Trip report of our backpacking trip to Havasupai. There is no cinematic attempt to draw you in...I'll do that in later videos. This is a see it like it is video...a longer edit to capture the memory of this amazing place as it was. This longer edit was made in hopes that it would help others plan a trip to this place...and also to make the viewer feel like they were with us. Enjoy!
GoPro HERO9 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with Front LCD and Touch Rear Screens, 5K Ultra HD Video, 20MP Photos, 1080p Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
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FeiyuTech G6 Hand Grip Gimbal 3-Axis Stabilizer for GoPro Hero 8/Hero 7/Hero 6/Hero 5/Hero 4/SJCAM/YI 4KSport Action Camera
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Energizer HIGH TECH Fast Charging, High Capacity 10000mAh Lithium Polymer, 2 USB-A Ports, Universal Power Bank w/ LCD Digital Screen for iPhone, Samsung, and More UE10036
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GoPro Rechargeable Battery (HERO8 Black/HERO7 Black/HERO6 Black) - Official GoPro Accessory
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Dual Battery Charger + Battery (HERO9 Black) - Official GoPro Accessory (ADDBD-001)
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SanDisk 128GB Extreme MicroSDXC UHS-I Memory Card with Adapter - C10, U3, V30, 4K, A2, Micro SD - SDSQXA1-128G-GN6MA
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April 13th - April 15th
Day 1- Hike from Hilltop to Havasu Campgrounds and Havasu Falls
Day 2- Climb down Mooney Falls and hike to Beaver Falls
Day 3- Havasu Falls, Hike to Supai Village, and Helicopter to Hilltop
Music by: The Artisan Beats- Underneath You
Join my wife and I at www.readyscentgo.com
Proverbs 3:6

[@vincenttrotta5938]

Great video. I hiked down there 45 years ago in 1976. You brought back some great memories. Thank you.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Hey thank you! It’s a truly magical place...hopefully it hasn’t changed too much since you were there.

[@RezNemati]

Beautiful! I can't stop watching this beautiful place from different angles! Good job!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Hey thank you! So glad you enjoyed it! I agree, this place is downright amazing…it’s easy to keep watching!

[@Mickey-jn8hz]

This is something I would have loved to do but when I was younger and could do it, I had no money to go.....now I am too old... but happy to go along with you. Be safe!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Well I’m glad I could help you enjoy it! But hey you are never to old to get out and enjoy life!

[@FirstNameLastName-sb8ch]

Just to let ya know... there a helicopter thats like 80 bucks to take you there..

[@matthewazpilicueta6795]

Wholesome video with an epic finish! Nicely done, boys.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Hey thank you! This was such an epic trip…and the helicopter really capped it off for sure. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@duquesne9487]

just WOW

[@tangenttrails]

I don’t know how I missed watching this adventure. Excellent!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! Havasupai is incredible to see in person…hopefully they’ll actually open back up soon.

[@debbiepenny1287]

Thank you! LOVE this! Totally takes me back and I get to remember my trip too. I'll show you hot, try this hike in August baby!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Debbie Penny thank you! Yeah I bet it was scorching hot in August! I’ll take those mild temps! Thanks for watching!

[@divinaflamingarrow9556]

Thanks for all the . Moony falls and beaver falls! Years ago I helicopter to the hotel there and took horseback to Havasupai Falls. Your video brings back all the good memories I had there!❤🎉😊 Thanks again!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

You bet! I’m glad you enjoyed it! Havasupai is a magical experience

[@kaymilano8914]

Amazing video!! Great friendship❤️❤️ that cave and ladder section looked tricky!!!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! I had a great time with these guys!

[@angie7236]

This was the best video! Thank you for sharing....and Go Blues! :-)

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@mfmc3233]

Great video! Loved the easy going style. Captured the beauty of the area. Will try to hit Beaver falls when I am there...one of my favorites based on your video.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thanks Dan! glad you enjoyed it! You'll love Beaver Falls... the whole hike down there is stunning. Go early, we enjoyed it almost completely empty for about an hour and it filled up fast.

[@ericsonvillanuevavirtudes2827]

So awesome guys!!!!!!!!!!!!! Wow! I can’t wait this May! So inspired!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

And the weather is going to be perfect in May! enjoy your trip!

[@patfal1514]

Before you go to Havasu Falls please see HavasupaiHorses.org and don't go alone

[@MarcyLo]

Beautiful footage!!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you!

[@mark_girardeau]

This is a great video especially with all the details, thank you!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it! Man I hope to make it back out there soon. It’s an amazing hike.

[@Huntingwiththehunters]

loved your video, my way and I are going to plan to go within a couple of years. This video helped me decide that! Looks like a great time. thank you for taking the time to make this

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! I'm so glad you enjoyed it! It is an amazing place for sure and you will not regret it!

[@patfal1514]

before you go to Havasu Falls please see HavasupaiHorses.org and don't go alone

[@baryakbikepacking]

You did an AMAZING Job putting this together.. Thank you...

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Hey thank you! So glad you enjoyed it!

[@CameronHall88]

The waterfalls were insane. I've obviously seen other pictures and short videos on the area but I didn't realize how popular it was. There were way more people down there than I thought. But with that awesome river and falls, I can see why. Great campsite right near the water. While I'm so cheap, I'd probably have hiked out, the helicopter ride was cool, not only for an easier and faster way out, but to me was probably worth the money for the experience and to see the canyon from a different perspective. Also, I say, and have heard it said "CONfluence". But that might not be right. Just how I say it. Thanks for the video bud.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

I was definitely planning on hiking out...but man my perspective changed when I saw an open spot...Haha I changed my mind so quick! It's definitely not your typical backcountry experience..but what really surprised me was the relaxed vibe that was there...everyone was very respectful for personal space. It was very quiet and peaceful...not the party scene that gets projected on Instagram!

[@TimmyCramer]

Supposed to hike this April 2023. Can't wait to hit it again!!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

I’m glad to here that they are finally opening back up…I wonder how much it has changed.

[@TimmyCramer]

@@TheNotLostNomad I'm praying it opens!! Lol

[@elizabethm6935]

Making this trip in April! Cannot wait!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Oh sweet! That’s the perfect time of year…enjoy it! It’s a treasure!

[@faatauvaawong879]

thank you for the video!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

You bet! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@rickburke5185]

Excellent video. Thanks.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

You bet! Thank you! I’m hoping to shoot a new one at some point this year. I’m glad to see that they finally opened back up.

[@cherylparker8612]

Thank you this. I've seen a few videos but this one has some amazing scenery I have not seen yet! So magnificent!! I'm excited to go! Maybe this year...we wil see tomorrow lol. Also..the scripture at the end of the description was much appreciated!! Needed to see that!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Cheryl Parker good luck to you! Don’t give up! It took me about 20 minutes to get my confirmation but I talked to some that took about 4 hours before they got their permits. Let me know how it goes tomorrow!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Cheryl Parker ,also thanks for the comment about the scripture... although we are all imperfect I live by it!

[@patfal1514]

Before you go to Havasu Falls please see HavasupaiHorses.org and don't go alone

[@martiwoodard3891]

Awesome video!!! I am also from Texas! My trip to Havasu is in October and I can’t wait!!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Marti Woodard , you will love it...it’s an absolutely amazing place!

[@patfal1514]

Before you go to Havasu Falls please see HavasupaiHorses.org and don't go alone

[@99avilyssa]

How did it go?????

[@nakiaskvarca1792]

Great video throughout. Thank you for the beautiful memory of how magnificent this place really is, It took me all the way back as though I was there again. Truly an unforgettable and rewarding experience hands down.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it! it's definitely a special place...I'm glad that I could help you relive the adventure!

[@debbiepenny1287]

Me too! I love this! It takes you back and you can relive all the special moments!!!

[@CantLookWontLook]

Really good to see play by play

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! I tried not to over analyze this video and kept it simple. Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mandydoddFL]

Awesome video

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you!

[@mitchellkiesler4376]

Thanks for your video

[@TheNotLostNomad]

You are welcome! thanks for watching!

[@Halfpace52]

Love the ending, a helicopter out😇😇😎😎

[@TheNotLostNomad]

The helicopter was so cool...and honestly I didn’t want to take it out. I wanted to know that I hiked the whole thing, but man what a cool way to end the hike. It only added to the whole experience!

[@jemportal4166]

It could not have been easy to carry that camera around. I mean I know you guys traveled light, but still; even the lightest loads become heavy after a while, especially when you're doing such a physically demanding activity like hiking. But thanks to you, people can get a glimpse of this splendor, I really got lost in this video, I almost felt like I was physically there, what Jedi mind tricks are yous pulling? lol. Thank you so much for this video though, this is wonderful:)

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Haha, no Jedi tricks here! I’m glad you enjoyed it though! This place is so amazing though and very diverse. I kept this video very simple...less edits and less music because the scenery is so overwhelming... it’s truly one of the most amazing places that I’ve ever visited. Thank you for the compliment and thank you for watching!

[@JerryArizona]

That helicopter out is the best money I've ever spent. Good to see you made it and looks like you had a good time. Absolutely love that place.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

We loved it! it was such an awesome trip...so different than all of the other trips I've done before...and yes helicopter was totally worth it!

[@donovanwilliams9456]

Hey Jerry. Helicopter out seems like a great idea! How long did you have to wait?

[@milwaukeemotor5995]

it's pretty

[@itsauertime]

Such an awesome video!! Thank you for sharing. If you don’t mind me asking, what kind of camera did you use to film?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you so much! This was all done with a GoPro Hero 5 Black. I shoot on Medium view at 2.7K at 60fps and do all my post edits with Davinci Resolve. I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@realtorsangsok8381]

I love this video! Beautiful!!Thank you!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@realtorsangsok8381]

@@TheNotLostNomad You're welcome! One of the best video I've watched on Havasupai.

[@Michael-fr3xc]

It would help if I was allowed camp in the canyon along the way. 😂 I’m not sure i can hike 10 miles on that terrain anymore. I’m a UPS driver so my legs are used to some work, but idk! I’d probably need to lose about 30 lbs and train a bit first. Great video!!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

You know I though the same…but to be honest it’s a pretty mild hike. The terrain is not bad…lots of level areas with a soft gravel footing. You’d probably be fine. I’d say book it and train leading up to it if you are unsure.

[@ExpeditingAmerica]

Do they do horse back tours? Is that why those horses were going back and forth

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Unfortunately not(at least the last I checked)…the horses are used to carry equipment to and from Hilltop. Hikers can pay to have their gear hauled to and from the trailhead.

[@CarlyBulik]

Supposed to hike in April 2023!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Awesome! That’s the perfect time to go…hope you have a great trip!

[@360virtualpromotions6]

Do you ogranize trips there? I'd love to hear about it, if permits are needed , etc. I've heard many different stories on how to make it happen. It looks amazing. Thanks for the video

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you for watching! but Unfortunately I do not...and I'm not even sure of the status of Havasupai. I know they shut down during Covid and never really opened back up. The hardest part is getting permits though..so I'd do some good research on their website for that. The hike itself honestly isn't too challenging IMO...its an amazing place for sure!

[@phatsakhonekhamphounvong2902]

Amazing Video 😍 Thank you for sharing...how long did the 10 mile hike take you guys?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Hey thanks! If I remember correctly it took us just over 4 hours. It’s really a pretty easy trail once you come down off of the switchbacks at the beginning.

[@baugherchrystal3958]

What camera equipment did you use to film and take photos with?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

This was awhile back…I used a GoPro Hero 5 attached to my trekking pole. I’m hoping to go back this year and shoot a new video…fingers crossed that it works out!

[@tapatioisnotspicy]

Can you elaborate more on the road block prior to the entrance of the parking lot? How and who checks? I plan on having my bag ready-to-go and I would hate having to unpack in order to prove that I don't have any of those items. Awesome video btw!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

iB mel , sure thing! It’s not bad... basically about a half mile before the parking area they will set out some cones and have someone checking your permit/reservation, so have it ready. We had about 10 beers from the night before in our trunk. In no way were we planning on taking them with us...we just didn’t want to throw them away. They will ask you if you have any weapons, drugs, or alcohol. When we answered yes to the alcohol they politely said that they would then have to confiscate it. I’m not sure what the process would be if you had the drugs or weapons though. And if anyone does sneak anything into the campsite they will find it. We saw them come through with dogs checking each site. They take it serious but I’m glad that they do. It’s a very peaceful atmosphere in camp and I know alcohol could change that quickly. Enjoy the trip. It’s absolutely amazing!

[@patfal1514]

@@TheNotLostNomad Oh funny from what I gather lots of toking and drinking among the natives.Wonder how much they "confiscate" in a week?

[@michellewright5559]

Thanks so much for this video. For some reason I have to see BEFORE I go (did this will all of the Spartan races I did too). I am going to check this hike off my bucket list in 2021. I am a mostly solo hiker because everyone I know is a couch potato (lol). Do you think this would be a safe solo hike? Did you come across any other solo hikers? I also love that you took the helicopter out. I contemplated it but didn't want to seem like too much of a wuss. Thanks again and happy hiking.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you for watching it! My goal is to help others plan adventures of their own. And I’m totally the same way...I watch every video I can to learn as much as possible so I’m completely prepared. For solo hiking...this is one of the best hikes to do. Their are more people visiting Havasupai than a typical backcountry hike. That being said if you ran into problems you will not be alone...and yes the helicopter is always an option. I really wanted to complete the whole hike to feel more accomplished but the Helicopter ride out is SO exhilarating that you’ll end up feeling more accomplished...I mean what an epic way to end a hike like that. You will love it! Oh and I feel ya being the minority of wanting to do things like this. I’m located all the way in East Texas where the nearest mountains are a 10 hr drive away...so most of the people I know lean more towards hunting and fishing. I have to fly or drive long distances to do what I love. Enjoy your trip next year!

[@michellewright5559]

@@TheNotLostNomad SWEET! I'm in Stephenville, TX (southwest of Fort Worth), so we probably have a few more nearby options than you (lol). One other question and then I will leave you alone. I hike a LOT, but do not have a ton of camping experience and while I REALLY want to sleep next to the creek, this part makes me nervous. I know there is a "Lodge", but it's $400/per night! So with that being said, tent or hammock? What do I need to know about camping that I probably haven't thought of? I think I'm going to do Guadalupe Peak in the near future, so maybe I can practice!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Michelle Wright , you are totally fine...ask away. I do not like hammocks...I’m 6’1” and I can’t sleep well in a hammock...so I prefer tent. And please don’t worry about being next to the creek. It’s is awesome and the sound will help you sleep. Only during the monsoon seasons do you really need to be careful...save your money embrace the full experience. You will be glad you did! So you are from Stephensville...so cool. I’m from Tyler. Yes you guys have much more to do than here. I’m jealous! I like to head out to Guadalupe Mountains and Big Bend as much as I can.

[@patfal1514]

Don't recommend going alone....see outsideonline.com/2261511 (Murder in the Grand Canyon) great once in a lifetime but.....

[@janetsaephan7229]

Can you explain more about the helicopter? How do we get to use it? How do we pay for it? When do we get to use it? Is this for if you don't want to hike the 10 miles back to the car? Thank you!

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Sure thing! so there are no reservations...basically it's on a first come, first served basis. If you want to take the helicopter then get there early...there will probably be a line. The helicopter is for the people that live in Supai , so they get first priority. So while you are in line you may see entire families arrive and they get to go first... But even on a busy day its pretty easy to wait for a turn...it goes pretty fast. I believe the cost was $80 per person and they take cash or credit card. also, each party/group will need to be paid for by a single transaction if paying by card. But its a cool trip and I'd totally do it again! Hope this helps!

[@milwaukeemotor5995]

i'm back, beautiful place

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Nice! What were the temps like in the canyon?

[@brittanymackey0706]

Are you wearing your GoPro while filming? If so is it on your chest or handheld

[@TheNotLostNomad]

back when i shot this i had my GoPro mounted on my trekking pole. then when I would film I would hold it steady for the shot. I shoot totally different these days though. I'd love to return and do a new video.

[@Halfpace52]

What month was this? How difficult to obtain the permit? Thank you.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

So this hike was in April, and it is extremely difficult to get the permits. Check out their website on their process as it may have changed since Covid. It’s a challenge to obtain but totally worth it!

[@MichiSzerman]

I was planning on going but was turned off by accounts of abused horses. Was it as bad as ive been reading?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Honestly I didn’t see any issues...we saw many horses that were hauling packs and many that were being ridden by the residents. From what I saw they all looked fine.

[@karenromero1703]

Wondering if you can ride a electric assisted mountain bike. Anybody know?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

I don’t think they allow any type of bike...they are pretty strict on rules there. We only saw hikers and people riding horseback.

[@gmm1904]

is there any mount lions? and how will you guys protect from them? are you guys armed?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

No, I don’t think there are any mountain lions out here. And we are not armed…They are pretty strict on what comes into the reservation. If you are concerned about safety I’d suggest someone going with you. It is generally safe as long as you are not alone and follow normal safe hiking practices. We never felt like we were in danger out there.

[@beto5.016]

Excelente video guys!! I enjoyed all the details you shared. Are you required to spend three nights?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Thank you! Havasupai is a blast! So you are required to reserve a 3 night section but you are not required to stay all of the nights. We actually only stayed 2.

[@beto5.016]

@@TheNotLostNomad So they refunded the money.? Thanks for responding

[@TheNotLostNomad]

@@beto5.016 you bet! So no refund, we just picked up and left. It’s an awesome trip though!

[@FirstNameLastName-sb8ch]

What time of the year did you go may i ask

[@TheNotLostNomad]

That’s was in early April...the weather was perfect!

[@nataliabarrero2117]

What was the water temperature like in April?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Natalia Barrero , I believe that it’s 70 degrees cold year round...it really wasn’t bad though.

[@lynziswez]

Natalia Barrero water temp is always 70 it’s the air temp that effects how we cope with it 👍🏻

[@mgm661]

Do you still need a 3 nights minimum ($375) hiking permit if you take a helicopter to Havasu Falls ?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Yes, it would still be the 3 night ($375) but you don’t have to stay for the whole time. We actually left after 2 nights.

[@mgm661]

@@TheNotLostNomad $375 is just for one person, or is it for a group ? Thanks for your reply.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

@@mgm661 you bet! It's per person and completely worth it!

[@JohnDoe-wb7fc]

what do you get 3 days to camp?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

yes, when you make your reservations you will choose a three night block...although you don't actually have to stay all three nights. We left after two. I'm glad I did...won $800 at the casino that last night that we were supposed to be camping!

[@CarlyBulik]

what was the weather like in april?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Cool I’m the morning…perfect during the day when you’re close to the water… hot during the hike. April is perfect for Havasupai.

[@carolwilliams610]

What time of the day did you make it to the helicopter?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Carol Williams , the best that I can remember...it was maybe 10:30

[@carolwilliams610]

The Not Lost Nomad thank you. Were you guys planning on hiking back up and you just happened to ask if they had room when you passed by? We’re planning on going there this May and doing the helicopter ride seems great but I also know it’s not guaranteed as it’s in a first come first serve.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Yes, we were totally planning to hike out. We did decide to leave out a day early so we were gambling a little bit. We were either prepared to hike out if there was no chance for a flight...or even try to wait and if we still missed a flight we would hike back to camp if it was too late in the day for the heat. I’d say give the heli a shot...it was amazing!

[@richardwillis3669]

Do you know what your miles were for each day?

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Richard Willis , so if I remember correctly it was just over 10 miles the first day to get to camp. Then beaver falls is 4 miles from camp to make 8 round trip. Then the last day was just 2 to get into town to catch the helicopter. So we did 20-21 miles over 3 days. It wasn’t bad at all.

[@sarahbooth5117]

Did you run into any snakes? When I went I almost stepped on a rattlesnake

[@TheNotLostNomad]

No snakes on this trip...surprisingly I’ve never ran into any rattlesnakes on any of my desert hikes...kinda want to see one.

[@chstruckspottingandganing654]

hi

[@_TheMax_]

Beautiful, will go there as soon as USA cancel mandatory vaccination.

[@TheNotLostNomad]

I’m not sure what they require…I’m sure it’ll ease up just like everything else soon.

[@Michael-fr3xc]

Wait, you have to be vaccinated to hike 10 miles?

[@_TheMax_]

@@Michael-fr3xc you have to be vaccinated to enter USA.

[@Michael-fr3xc]

@@_TheMax_ 🤬 I’m not sure when that will happen, they’re awfully committed to the vax mandates they’ve managed to keep in place under pressure. I do hope things change soon and you can visit.

[@ToddSloanIAAN]

Indian land I suspect....

[@stanfordhiga2135]

I only watched this video to watch the hike out… very disappointed

[@TheNotLostNomad]

I wasn’t disappointed at all…the helicopter is totally worth it.

[@dsqueeze86]

Catawba worms 🪱????😳😬

[@TheNotLostNomad]

Yes...everywhere! I even took a few home inside of my tent and pack. That part was not fun!