Arizona's Top 5 Hikes for 2016 – Arizona Hikers Guide

Havasupai is one of the most well-known and photographed waterfall destinations in the world. Consisting of five major waterfalls including the most famous “Havasu Falls”, this oasis in the desert should be on the top of any backpackers bucket list.

The trek down to Supai, AZ is 8 miles and is quite an easy stroll through the desert (the hike back up is another story).  The village, which is the only place in the U.S. that still receives its mail via mule, is located near the waterfalls and the trail travels directly through “Main Street”.

After a visit to Havasu Falls (the first and most famous waterfall), I recommend going downstream to Mooney Falls.  Now beware, getting down to Mooney Falls can be quite scary and dangerous for those who are afraid of heights as you have to use chains and rebar to scale down the side of a canyon.  There are ladders and mounted chains for support.  Once down, enjoy the falls and make your way to Beaver falls.  A few more miles of hiking will bring you to the confluence of the Colorado River where aqua blue water mixes with the muddy Colorado. When you have sufficiently enjoyed all of the falls, canyons, cliff jumping, swimming, and everything else, clean up your site better than you found it and leave with good memories. This hike has gained quite a reputation for it’s unreal aqua blue and picturesque falls so be sure to plan months in advance!

So there you have it; five can’t miss hikes for 2016.  The New Year is right around the corner and these five hikes should definitely find their way onto your 2016 adventure bucket lists!  As always, we ask that you follow basic trail etiquette and Leave No Trace principals by taking only pictures and leaving only footprints.  Now get out and enjoy our great state!