Bevan and I were lucky enough to snag some open spots on Allen's backpacking permit for Havasupi. This has been on my bucket list for about 20 years. The permits have only gotten harder to get and more expensive over those years, so we figured it was now or never. Huge shoutout to Beverly, Lloyd, and Nora for watching our kids. I'm sure they had the time of their lives missing school and playing all day. Do whatcha gotta do.
Since the drive is so stinking LONG, we broke it into 2 days, but still managed to start hiking by noon the second day. The hiking weather was absolutely perfect, 60's! We knew we wouldn't be swimming in waterfalls exclusively so the cooler weather was certainly welcomed. It was very different to see the consistent mule trains on the trail and helicopter flying non-stop overhead. It made it feel a little less rugged, but oh well. The walk through the village to the campground was also a little eye-opening. It's just a totally different environment... and that's how they choose to live. The kids certainly looked happy, but it was also Friday afternoon. We found our awesome camp spot near the top of Mooney Falls. It's the best white noise to fall asleep to!
On Saturday morning, Bevan and I set off for the Colorado River confluence. We got stuck in traffic descending Mooney Falls, but that was our only big hang-up. We made amazing time downstream and easily found the 9 crossings along the lightly-marked trail. The confluence itself was a little underwhelming, but it was still fun to see that freezing-cold, chocolate-brown river that I love so much. The way back was a little frustrating, we kept loosing the trail... again and again! You would think just following a simple creek wouldn't be so hard, but we barely made it back before it started getting dark. That was another thing, visiting Havasupi so late in the year means it gets dark so early. Good thing we were super tired and ready for bed by 7pm. Best night of sleep ever.
We were planning on attending the Supi LDS branch the next morning, but the weather had different plans for us. Walking through rain = mud for 3 1/2 miles back through the village seemed like an adventure in itself, but I only brought one pair of shoes. We decided to pass. The sun did come out by lunch time, so we did some more hiking around and waterfall gazing. The fry bread was a little disappointing (swiss days fry bread is way better), but it's still fun to soak in the culture.
We got an early start Monday morning, which meant it was down-right cold for the hike out. Walking back through the village, we passed the lineup of people waiting for the helicopter. I secretly envied them, but just because we had a long drive ahead of us. I actually enjoy hiking out of the Grand Canyon. It's part of the fun. We made amazing time and passed hordes of people hiking in. We got back to our car about noon and started the long drive home. That's the main downside of this adventure, but a small price to pay for red sand, turquoise water, and amazing waterfalls! I'm already plotting how to go back next year.
