LNA – Havasu (Original)

[text_block style=”style_1.png” align=”left” font_size=”18″ font_font=”Helvetica”]Arrive in Phoenix by 12:00 pm, then make your way to the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites in Old Town Scottsdale. The adventure begins at 1:30 pm when you meet your fellow Live Now Adventurers and guides in the lobby.  Today we will head north through the Sonoran Desert and into the high elevation plateaus and red rock canyons of north-central Arizona. As we gain elevation, we will travel across the Colorado Plateau to the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn. Here we will enjoy dinner as your guides brief you on the following morning’s activities and provide an overview of your guided hiking trip in Havasupai.[/text_block]

[text_block style=”style_1.png” align=”left” font_size=”18″ font_font=”Helvetica”]After an early breakfast, we will drive the short distance to the trailhead, which is perched on the edge of the canyon. It is called Hualapai Hilltop (pronounced “Walapai”) and is the only land travel access to Havasupai. Starting at an elevation of 5,200 feet, the trail to Havasupai switchbacks down for 1.5 miles until it reaches a dry streambed and levels out. After a trailside lunch, the canyon walls seem to grow taller alongside the trail as you descend deeper into the labyrinthine red sandstone of Hualapai Canyon. At mile 8 in our hike the canyon begins to widen and vegetation abounds as you enter the village of Supai, the most remote village in the U.S., where even the mail still arrives by pack animal. Here at 3,200 feet, after a welcome rest stop, the Cottonwood-lined paths will lead you through the village and into the canyon’s backcountry. We experience multiple waterfalls along the way, culminating in our first glimpse of the famous and awe-inspiring 100-foot Havasu Falls. Just minutes from the falls we enter the AOA Basecamp at 2,800 feet (853 m). Estimated arrival time is between 1:00pm – 3:00pm. Your guides will help you set up your tent before they begin preparing dinner while you unpack and settle in. Tonight we sleep under the stars deep in the Grand Canyon.[/text_block]

[text_block style=”style_1.png” align=”left” font_size=”18″ font_font=”Helvetica”]We awaken each morning in the AOA Basecamp, nestled along the banks of Havasu Creek, beneath towering cottonwood trees and a short walk from enormous waterfalls. Fresh-brewed coffee and a hearty breakfast await. Each day your guides will lead you on some of the most spectacular hikes in the world. We’ll cross tropical blue streams and wade through lush meadows of wild grapevines, clamber up narrow side canyons, and even take a swim beside a 200-foot (61 m) waterfall. Each day we dine on healthy, delicious meals prepared by the guide(s). All hikes are optional. Anyone is welcome to forego an expedition to spend the day lounging by the creek, reading a book, or napping in a hammock. It’s your vacation so make of it what you wish. We have options from high adventure to peaceful relaxation.[/text_block]

[text_block style=”style_1.png” align=”left” font_size=”18″ font_font=”Helvetica”]The scenery and magic of the canyon will make you never want to leave, but after breakfast it is time to conquer the canyon! While hiking out is always challenging, the reward and exhilaration felt upon reaching the rim is a feeling you’ll never forget. Expected arrival time at the canyon rim is between 1:00pm – 3:00pm. On our way home we will stop in the kitschy town of Seligman, Arizona on historic Route 66 to enjoy some much deserved treats. We return to the Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites between 6:00pm – 8:00pm.[/text_block]

[text_block style=”style_1.png” align=”left” font_size=”18″ font_font=”Helvetica”]Today is yours to enjoy. Check-out time at the hotel is 12:00pm (late check-out is possible based on availability – inquire at the front desk). Use the hotel’s airport shuttle to return to Phoenix Sky Harbor at least 2 hours before your flight. There are no guide services today and all meals are on your own.[/text_block]