Havasu Falls AZ - A Spiritual Awakening

The Beginning

Somewhere between the Grand Canyon and Heaven you will find Havasu Falls, a small yet powerfully appealing hidden gem located in Supai AZ which appears as if it was hand crafted by the gentle touch of angels. The water as it flows from above, settles in the awaiting pool which forms a pastel colored oasis. The crystal clear liquid mirror finish reflects the surrounding hues from the canyons rocky walls. Standing in this pool if you look downward, your eyes will pierce right through to the bottom, the sand and rainbow colored sediment that seems to resemble a freshly painted portrait is natures gift to those who visit this gorgeous mystical locale.

Home to a mere 600 Native American keepers of the painted land, predominantly the Havasupai who have a long documented history of preserving and protecting for the benefit of all visitors. This canyon plays host to thousands of tourists each year and for those who are fortunate enough to make the trek and wallow in her warm therapeutic waters, the experience can be life changing for the better. A new appreciation for the simpler things is certainly not uncommon.

" If you've never had a true spiritual experience outside of man made sacred walls, one which penetrated your very soul as well as physical body, then Havasu Falls awaits to test your psychological boundaries. Not only are the mineral rich waters a healing force but the magical Native American aura will captivate and seduce your very essence. The Grand Canyon is home to so many natural anomalies and gifts of nature that Havasu Falls sometimes gets lost in the overall scheme of it's enormity. "

                                                                                                                         A.P.

The Trail, Creek, & Falls

Havasu Falls AZ, this land seemingly painted by natures commissioned angels has three distinct yet tightly interwoven themes, "The Trail" which is a path leading down and into The Falls, a sandy surfaced artery which must be walked to reach and gain entrance into this secluded place, "The Creek", where the waters come to rest and settle after their long winding journey, and of course "The Falls", where the story begins. All three elements are essential to ultimately create this chorus of visual charismatic splendor and spirituality. Like singing in harmony, without one voice you don't have the other, and that's how this trio of elements work together hand in hand to stage this wonderment.

The trail which leads to the Falls is roughly 9 miles in a descending fashion. The Native Tribe charges a reasonable fee to enter the lands, you can hike the trail or ride by horseback, and burro's to carry any luggage are available by the host nation for an additional charge. There is also a campground which usually requires a reservation if that's your intention, the facilities are unmatched by the splendor of the falls but usable for a rugged outdoor style experience. Also a small lodge is on location for overnight stays which require reservations as well.

The Spirituality

There are very few places on earth that I can think of outside a man made and designed structure such as a synagogue or temple or any other religious building in which you can physically immerse yourself and be engulfed by a spiritually soothing effervescence. Havasu Falls is one of these special places. More than a million years in the making and a natural masterpiece constantly in the works. Ever so slowly and meticulously carved and shaped by the mineral rich crystal waters as they flow through, hour by hour, day by day, they brush up against the rock taking with it the eroded particles which ride the falls to be deposited at another destination somewhere within the wading pool or possibly further downstream.

Just as the waters sweep away loosened layers of mother earth, if you unbridle your inhibitions, they will surely touch you in a magical and mystical way. The sights and sounds will no doubt serve as temptress to extract and provoke your inner thoughts, desires & emotions. There's just something about this place that envokes a special feeling of serenity as you become one intertwined with nature. Perhaps it's the rich, inspirational, and romantic Native American history that surrounds the falls, or just the fact you are witness to something so beautiful which was created in such a secluded place, you feel like your the only soul around frolicing in your personal pool of pleasure. Or, perhaps it's just the relaxing sound of the falls as waters careen off the natural rock shelf above and splash energetically into the awaiting creek generating a refreshing mineral mist. Your individual experience will reveal the true reasons.

The Time to Visit & Preparation

As magnificent a sight the Falls are in summer we must realize this is of course the desert, and as soothing as the dry desert heat is, it can also be a little uncomfortable for those who may not be acclimated to this region. Summer is a good time to visit however a trip in the spring or fall might present milder conditions and the beauty is of equal splendor.

The Falls, located in Cataract Canyon within the Grand Canyon National Park and just a short day trip from Kingman Arizona, are open year round, so when you visit it's just a matter of personal preference and tolerance. The recommendation is to call ahead of time because the Native American Ambassadors try their best to manage visitor flow in an effort to mitigate over crowding, this ensures a pleasant experience for those who plan ahead and make the journey.

Hydration is essential when visiting so bring plenty of water and maybe a snack or lunch for the trip. Once you arrive at the location there is food available which is provided by the Native American Diner. Check ahead of time to find out local weather conditions and dress appropriately, usually light clothing in summer would be advised with slight adjustments for alternate seasons.

• A hat or visor will work well for the hike and please do not forget the digital camera or camcorder, once in a lifetime photo opportunities abound within the canyon walls. The color schemes are truly extraordinary to say the least, and documenting the incredible picture perfect scenery will bring many years of retrospective enjoyment.
  

Parting Gift for the Soul

As you can see from the included photos, this small remote symphony of rock configurations and natural water colored images located on the blessed lands of the Havasupai Indian Reservation is indeed a one of a kind experience. Breathe in deeply while your there to be sure and capture your personal spiritual keep sake to cherish and hold forever. Mooney Falls, Havasu Falls, Navajo Falls, Beaver Falls, & Havasu Creek will continue on with it's ever changing landscape and periodically unveil newly sculptured displays for all to behold. If we are all good shepards of our fragile planet, this remote and some may deem sensual wonderland will always play host to future generations. Some may fall upon this Eden purely by accident while others will return time after time to inhale another rejuvenating breath of spiritual healing.