Fiftyfoot Falls
Arizona • Grand Canyon National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
10.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
2 ft
About Fiftyfoot Falls
Fiftyfoot Falls is a mellow, lesser-known cascade on Havasu Creek just upstream from the more photographed Havasu Falls, tucked inside the Havasupai Indian Reservation near Supai Village. The falls share the same startling turquoise-blue color that makes Havasu Creek famous — a result of the creek’s mineral-rich waters — and because it sits a short distance above the busier drop, Fiftyfoot Falls often offers a quieter, more contemplative visit. The site is on tribal land managed by the Havasupai Tribe, so visitors should respect local rules and permits required for access. Havasu Creek is a tributary of the Colorado River and ultimately joins it in the Grand Canyon; the stream primarily runs through the Havasupai Reservation and is sometimes called Cataract Creek (not to be confused with Cataract Canyon in Utah). Approaching Fiftyfoot Falls feels like stepping deeper into the canyon’s pocket of lush color and calcareous pools, with dramatic canyon walls framing the creek and a more intimate setting than the larger falls downstream.
The Setting
Fiftyfoot Falls sits at 3,159 feet within Grand Canyon National Park, fed by the Havasu Creek, in the mountains of Arizona.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Mooney Falls (200 ft) lies 1.3 miles to the northwest. Also nearby: Havasu Falls (100 ft, 0.7 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard 10.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 2 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The standard route to Fiftyfoot Falls starts at Hualapai Hilltop and is an out-and-back trek of roughly 10.0 miles total, rated hard. Although official elevation gain is recorded as minimal (2 ft net), the trail includes a long, steep descent from the hilltop down into the canyon, followed by walking along Havasu Creek; hikers should be prepared for sustained downhill and uphill sections on the return. The trail surface is rocky and exposed in places with limited shade, and the route through the settlement of Supai Village continues as a creekside path that passes Navajo Falls before reaching Fiftyfoot Falls. There is no USFS trail number listed for this tribal route; expect uneven, natural tread and bring good footwear, sun protection and plenty of water.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Fiftyfoot Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
Permit required
Permits are required to enter the Havasupai Reservation and must be obtained in advance through the official Havasupai Tribe website. Permits include camping fees and are non-refundable.
🏊 Is There Swimming at Fiftyfoot Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to milder temperatures. Summer can be extremely hot, and winter may bring cooler temperatures and icy conditions on the trail.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Watch for flash flood warnings during monsoon season (July through September). Check with Grand Canyon National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
The trail is remote and rugged, with limited access to emergency services. Be prepared for extreme heat, dehydration, and potential flash floods during monsoon season. Always check weather conditions before your trip.
Current Water Conditions
64 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 24 years of record
6.97 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Fiftyfoot Falls is accessible via the Havasupai Trail, which begins at the Hualapai Hilltop. The trail requires a permit to enter the Havasupai Reservation. Visitors must hike approximately 8 miles to Supai Village and then continue another 2 miles to reach the falls. The trail is rugged and remote, so proper preparation is essential.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Hualapai Hilltop, which serves as the trailhead for the Havasupai Trail. The parking area is limited and can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Elevation
3159 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.244982° N, -112.699913° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid the heat, and bring plenty of water and sun protection. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and be prepared for a strenuous hike. Reservations are required well in advance, as permits for the Havasupai Reservation are highly sought after.
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This challenging 10.0 miles trail gains 2 ft in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
JUMPUP CABIN
25.0 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Since the 1900s, Jumpup cabin has been used by ranchers as well as the Forest Service, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The site consists of a historic two-room cabin, shed and composting toilet. Recreation Jumpup cabin is located at the trailhead for the Ranger trail, a 17-mile wilderness trail that winds through Kanab Creek. Hiking this area is very popular in the spring and fall months, but is discouraged during the hottest summer months. Water is scarce and
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Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Kaibab, Arizona on SoakingSprings.
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Nearby Attractions
Havasu Falls, Navajo Falls, Mooney Falls, and Beaver Falls are all located along Havasu Creek and can be visited as part of the same trip.
Wildlife
The area is home to various desert wildlife, including lizards, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes and other potentially dangerous animals.
Cities near Fiftyfoot Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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