The Secret Village in the Grand Canyon

Deep within the Grand Canyon lies Supai Village — the most remote community in the contiguous United States. Home to the Havasupai Tribe, this village of roughly 200 people is accessible only by helicopter, mule, or an 8-mile hike down into the canyon. There are no roads, no cars, and all mail is still delivered by pack mule — the last mule mail route in America. The reward for reaching Supai is Havasu Falls, a stunning 100-foot turquoise waterfall that cascades into a vivid blue-green pool. The travertine-rich waters create colors so surreal they look photoshopped, but they're entirely real. Nearby Mooney Falls drops 190 feet through a narrow canyon — reaching its base requires descending a chain-and-tunnel route carved into the cliff face. This six-day itinerary combines Havasu Falls with the Grand Canyon South Rim, a Colorado River rafting section, and the red rock beauty of Sedona. Important: Havasupai permits are extremely limited and sell out within minutes when released each February. Plan at least a year ahead, and be prepared for the February permit lottery. The 8-mile hike to Supai follows Hualapai Canyon through increasingly dramatic scenery. It's not technically difficult but can be brutally hot in summer — start before dawn and carry plenty of water. The campground sits between Havasu Falls and Mooney Falls, with the sound of rushing water as your alarm clock. After the canyon, a half-day rafting trip on the Colorado River provides a different perspective on the Grand Canyon's mile-deep geology. The trip ends in Sedona, where red rock formations and desert trails offer a perfect decompression from the canyon's intensity. This is one of America's greatest adventure trips — remote, challenging, and absolutely unforgettable.