Havasupai

If you’ve never experienced the breathtaking beauty of the Havasu Canyon, you need to put this awe-inspiring place on your “to-go” list asap! The colors will astound you: the reds, oranges, and yellows of the surrounding canyon (Havasu is an offshoot of the famous Grand Canyon), the unreal blue-green waters of Havasu Creek, and the popping green of the cottonwoods in the base camp combine to form a spectacular vacation destination for you and your family! I wanted to share a few of my favorite memories of this trip to inspire you to take an adventure vacation with ALA!

One of my favorite memories of my Havasupai Vacation that I took with my mom on a college Spring break was stepping, sliding, and climbing down the travertine cliffs near Mooney Falls using chain railings and stanchions sunk in the jagged rock. Talk about excitement: seeing this 196 foot waterfall from above, midway, and below, all while carefully making our way down steps carved into the rock through caves and around rock faces, is an awesome experience I will never forget!

Another memory I will always remember is when our guide, Stephan swam with me and a few other brave souls behind Havasu Falls. Swimming under that pounding 100 foot waterfall had my adrenaline running on high, but we soon made it under the roaring falls (it doesn’t sound that loud until you’re actually in the falls!) From there, we looked up to find a ladder that climbs to a low lying niche behind the falls. From this niche, we were able to jump through the falls, emerging mid-air for a brief second before disappearing into the deep blue-green waters below. What a rush!

Of course, there are many ways to enjoy this beautiful canyon, and if you’re looking for hiking vacations (with some camping and swimming involved), this is the place for you! I don’t want to give anymore away (I could truly continue to relive the memories) because you need to experience this wonder for yourself. Hope to make more memories soon on a Havasupai Adventure!

See you on the trails!

Kasey Austin

I have had the opportunity to visit the Grand Canyon many times. Its tough to choose my favorite Grand Canyon Vacation memory, but here are a few.

Arechologists say that the Grand Canyon was first inhabitated by Native Americans nearly 10,000 years ago. The first non-native inhabitants were Spanish soldiers who explored the South Rim of the canyon with Hopi guides in 1540. This mission of this expedition: searching for the "Seven Cities of Gold". In 1869 John Wesley Powell, a one armed Civil War veteran led the first voyage to explore the Grand Canyon.

I have rafted the Grand Canyon on a j-rig in the big waters of the spring of 2011. Sleeping under the starlight skies as our journey took us the 187 miles from Marble Canyon to Lava Falls. in a contstant state of the change the Grand Canyon takes you on a magical journey back in geologic time. Massive canyon walls that display the eons of natural history, at one place dark and narrow, and at another lush with waterfalls tumbling hundreds of feet in amazing veils of water. Our daily stops included hikes to sparkling streams, pristine pools, green fern glens, and ancient Anasazi ruins. The mind thrilling twists and turns of the Grand Canyon entice you with the thrill of over 60 rapids.

One of my personal favorite hiking vacations was in the Grand Canyon to Havasupai. Havasupai translates to the "People of the Blue Green Waters". This lush tropical slot canyon off of the Grand Canyon is an amazing utopia in the middle of a very dry land. Lush tropical gardens, thundering waterfalls, travertine pools filled (refershing after a day of hiking) canyons filled with grape vines and the clearest skies imaginable at night.

See you out on the trails,

Carol Austin

 

Hiking vacations to Havasupai offer ideal conditions for any type of hiker no matter how experienced. Where else in the world can families wind through fern garden paths to reach the hidden pools filled by the cascading Havasupai Falls?

Jumping from the cliffs into the pools below and then swimming and wading in the pristine waters seems almost like a dream, and certainly worth all the effort it takes to hike to the base camp situated against the Grand Canyon walls.

Sleeping under the stars takes on an almost spiritual significance as the peace and quiet envelops travelers in this remote camping location. The canyons and three waterfalls make this place a haven from the world outside and our guests often venture back to experience nature’s quiet rest.

The hike into the village of Supai is one of those trips that can only be experienced firsthand. Known as the most remote village in the United States, the mail is still delivered by packhorse, and 450 Havasupai people still live there. The term “Havasupai” literally means “people of blue green waters,” and understandably so, since the cascading waterfalls sparkle in blues and greens for all to enjoy.

Come with us to experience what few in the world have seen – the natural beauty and wonder of a Grand Canyon vacation. Give us a call or visit us online to find out more about this unforgettable destination.

 

Camping under the stars at Havasupai was simply amazing! I can’t say enough great things about the whole adventure. Couldn’t wait to wake up each morning for a new day of activities, and the entire environment felt surreal! I absolutely never wanted to go home. Our guide, Joy, was the best; she really made this trip for us. She is very talented with a lot of spirit and energy, and the food she made was exceptional. I’ll never forget the waterfalls or this trip – it’s a memory that will stay with me always.

Name: Kelly Turner
City: Asheville
State: North Carolina
Country: USA

Here at Austin Lehman we understand the true essence of adventure and make sure that each journey you take with us promises plenty of adrenaline rush as you take a week off from your everyday routine. Our hiking vacations to the Grand Canyon will bring you to one of the top four hiking vacation destinations in the world. From first timers to professional hikers, we have adventure vacations to suit everyone.

After much research and effort we have concluded that hiking is very much an art form and should be done religiously. Whether walking alongside gorgeous glaciers or stepping through the caves of stunning canyons to explore the beautiful countryside of unexplored places with our local guides, your journey will include plenty of amusing facts and historical stories about your travel destination. Our guides promise to keep you thoroughly entertained all through your trip.

It is nature’s way to make sure that our efforts are well rewarded so as you trek knee deep through streams of bright green blue waters and stroll through lush, verdant meadows in route to such places as Beaver Falls, you’ll be surrounded by amazing views of flora and fauna. While in Havasupai, don’t miss a visit to the Navajo or Mooney Falls. These waterfalls are mainly unexplored because not many people trek to the bottom of the falls. Experience the untouched virgin beauty of the base of these falls with Austin Lehman by planning your adventure vacation today (800) 575-1540.
 

Adventure trips organized by Austin-Lehman Adventures are worth remembering for a lifetime. With over 38 years of experience in traveling and planning customized vacations, our company has made its mark in the minds of our clients and the media when compared to other adventure travel companies.  Our goal is to make your wildest expectations come true.

Take, for instance, our week long trip to Havasupai. This natural retreat allows travelers to explore the mesmerizing oasis of cascading waterfalls, serene blue lakes and natural whirlpools. The thrill of trekking begins with a sumptuous breakfast prepared using local herbs and spices before venturing off to Havasupai Falls.  In fact, trekking is the only way to reach the base of the falls. Once you finish the arduous and heart pumping trek, you’ll be rewarded with unparalleled views of Havasupai surrounded with greenery all around. The view is breathtaking and awe inspiring as you make your way around a series of waterfalls where the cascading drops land in richly colored waters. Treat yourself for a session of nature’s own spa experience in these mineral rich whirlpools of refreshing leisure.

Your day’s journey to the falls ends with a night at the deluxe base camp under the clear blue sky sleeping to the sound of thundering water. The next day takes you back in time as you tour the Supai village where you can send a post card from one of the most remote villages of native America – all food, water and other supplies are still delivered by packhorse.

Experience all this natural glory by booking your summer trip to Havasupai with Austin Lehman. Learn more by visiting us online or calling our 24 hour support line today (800) 575-1540.
 

Carved by the Colorado River and its various tributaries over millions of years, the Grand Canyon is a vast mountain range with great depths and soaring heights. Out of our numerous adventure vacation packages we offer here at Austin-Lehman, you must not miss our Grand Canyon vacation if you have the passion for thrilling adventure.

Family adventure vacations are a perfect way to spend quality time with your family and truly revel in some heart pumping action. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon stands proudly over 277 miles of land. Mostly unknown to tourists is a hidden oasis of thundering waterfalls, serene lakes and hot springs. It’s a place called Havasupai, the most remote village of America.

Hike the uneven rocky paths of the canyon – the only way to reach the base camp of the falls and your efforts of the day will prove to be worthwhile at very first sight. Cascading waterfalls falling into sparkling blue crystal clear water is nature’s way to give you well deserved relaxation. Play around and splash water on your partner and sleep camping under the clear night sky at the foot of a 100 ft. waterfall.

Take a hiking tour in the Grand Canyon National Park and hike on the Bright Angel Trail and along the rims to catch the first glimpse of the roaring river below. Visit Navajo and Hopi trading posts, and shop for exquisite Native American jewelry and handicrafts. Stroll through the picturesque East rim and check out the Desert view lookout.

Make the Grand Canyon your vacation destination this year by simply stopping by our website to view our travel destinations.
 

Take a week off from your daily life and plan a Grand Canyon vacation with Austin-Lehman Adventures to fully experience the thrill of active travel. Experience a vacation alongside where the American Indian tribe of Havasupai people made their home in the Grand Canyon. The majestic mountain range spreads over 18 miles with truly powerful and breathtaking views.

The beauty of this gigantic mass of geological wonder is awe- inspiring. Hike through the rugged and rocky paths alongside picturesque landscapes and meadows to reach the base camp at the Havasupai Falls. The sound of waterfalls while hiking keeps you captivated and inspired to reach the destination point. All your efforts will be well rewarded as you reach the camp where you can relax and play in the blue green waters of the lake. Spend the night camping under the stars and sleep in the calmness of nature and to sound of water.

Don't forget to send a post card to your friends from the Havasupai Village – one of the oldest remote villages in America. Usually unknown to tourists, our guides take you to the thundering waterfalls, unpaved hiking trails and remote secluded places usually known only to locals. Explore the old mines in the canyon and hunt for fossils. Unwind and relax in the natural whirlpools created by mineral rich water falling from great heights making it a perfect natural spa surrounded by greenery and serenity. Other spectacular waterfalls created by Mother Nature are Mooney Falls and Navajo Falls.

Give us a call today to learn more about vacations to the Grand Canyon for singles, couples and families.
 

To experience the true essence of an adventure vacation package, plan it with Austin-Lehman adventures. With over 38 years of experience in organizing adventure tours whether family vacations, honeymoon trips or may be just a break from work, we offer customized holiday packages for everyone.Imagine sleeping beside the 100 ft. Havasupai Falls in a deluxe camp site where the only way to reach it is through hiking on a rugged trail down the mountain ranges. The roaring sound of water falling in to the lake and the picturesque scenery is quite an inspiration and drives you on your journey to reach the end.

Once the trek is over, relax in the natural whirlpool created by mineral rich water and enjoy nature’s healing spa.  Take a tour of the Havasupai village, which is one of the most remote villages of Native America and still uses packhorse to deliver food, mail and other supplies.

The striking blue colour water of the lakes in Havasupai is due to the natural occurrence of calcium carbonate and magnesium in this area. Trek through the canyon and explore red rocks and fossils in the caves. Less than half a mile from Havasupai Falls is Navajo Falls with its spectacular travertine pools and rich fauna. Visit the Mooney and Beaver Falls as well to leisurely swim around in the large pools below the falls mostly unvisited by the tourists.

Find out more by visiting us online to view our exotic and adventurous travel destinations.

 

Close your eyes, and picture verdant vegetation, red cliffs and sparkling blue water. Imagine the delicious aroma of crisp, fresh air. Now open your eyes. You are on the Havasupai Indian Reservation in the Grand Canyon at Havasupai Falls in beautiful Arizona. This hidden oasis has been waiting to be discovered by you for just as long as you have been waiting to discover this absolutely magical place.

Havasupai is one of the most isolated places left on this planet. It’s so secluded, in fact, that food, mail and supplies are all delivered by packhorse. During your hike to Havasupai Falls, you will find your surroundings to be unparalleled. Your revitalizing dip in the spectacular pool at the base of the thundering waterfall will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. Be sure to bring your camera because the nature that surrounds you is sure to be unlike anything you have ever seen before and will leave you breathless.

Adventure travel companies take care of the details for you so all you have to do is enjoy everything your destination has to offer and remember to pack your camera. Call Austin Lehman Adventures today to book an experience you will never forget.
 

Imagine lush vegetation and crystal clear water with picturesque red cliffs and the aroma of deliciously fresh air. On the surface, this enchanting combination might sound like a utopian place of fiction, but those who are willing to hike just a bit further have discovered that this location actually exists, in Arizona no less. Located on the Havasupai Indian Reservation in the Grand Canyon, Havasupai Falls is an obscured gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers in search of pure, natural beauty.

Visiting Havasupai is comparable to taking a trip back in time, as it is one of the most secluded places found on Earth. Led by experienced guides, the hike to Havasupai Falls, followed by an invigorating dip in the blue-green pool at the base of the waterfall provides couples with the perfect place to reconnect with each other, and with nature. Austin Lehman’s Adventure Vacations for Couples are sure to provide postcard memories, never-ending fun, idealistic sites and rewarding experiences for travelers. Hiking vacations offer an impeccable way to reconnect with the person you love and with the place you love to dream of.

Turn your dream into reality and contact Austin Lehman’s Adventures today to book your journey of a lifetime.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prepare yourself for a rockin' adventure vacation package with Austin Lehman guides as you take a hiking trip to reach Havasupai Falls.

Blessed with numerous exquisite pools and waterfalls, this place is an ideal location for camping. Plenty of lodges are available for people who don’t want to stay out at night; however, the experience of camping is generally described as a commune with nature. Havasupai Falls are a must see destination when holidaying in Havasupai Village. The waterfall plunges almost 100 feet falling into a pool of green blue waters. You can jump into the falls from behind this grand structure, and it will push you to safety by the sheer natural power generated in the pool.

After a day of hiking to the cascading waterfall, the joy of relaxing and playing in the water below is a perfect way to end the day. The next day brings even more excitement and adventure as you take the hike to the farthest fall of Havasupai - Beaver Falls. It is a series of falls all the way to the canyon and makes a perfect destination to play around all day and then spend a night in the Grand Canyon. It is the kind of Grand Canyon vacation that will force you to make it a yearly ritual forever.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Discover the wonders of Southwest America by experiencing the mystical Grand Canyons and vast deserts. Plan it solo or with a partner and head out to explore the picturesque village of Havasupai; one of the most remote villages of America. Blessed with numerous waterfalls, mud pots, geysers and steam vents, it is a perfect adventure vacation package.

Trek unbeaten and unpopulated paths through rugged scenery to reach the base camp below a waterfall. Be one with nature and sleep under the stars. Wake up rejuvenated and ready for a fun filled day as you go on hiking and cycling tours.

Austin-Lehman adventure guides give you a personalized and customized vacation tailored to suit your dreams. The trip also educates you on some amazing facts about continental America. You’ll be welcomed by stark red canyons and inspiring Pa'rus trail.

After a busy day of hiking, cycling and trekking, you will have the opportunity to sit and unwind at the chapel of the Holy Cross. There is a feeling of immense peace and serenity when you relax after a tiring day. The experience when your mind is thinking of nothing and just being in the moment makes the hike worthwhile and unforgettable.
 

Nothing can make you feel more alive than the rush of adrenaline when you jump off a waterfall or trek through steep canyons to reach the Havasupai base camp. Adventure vacations for couples are designed especially for those looking for a getaway from the routine life or those looking to make that special connection like honeymooners. Wouldn’t it be great fun to face your fears with your partner and spend the night at the foot of a canyon? This beautiful and spiritual experience so close to nature adds a touch of romance to your adventure filled trip.

The long and arduous hiking will be well rewarded once you reach below the falls. Swimming and playing in the cool waters of these gorgeous pools are truly worth the effort. The clear blue water of Havasupai Falls is commonly pictured in calendars and postcards. Carbon and magnesium minerals are found naturally in these waters, and you can explore an old Galena mine and maybe even get lucky to find a fossil for your loved one. The amazing fact about Havasupai is that it is one of the world’s most remote villages, and general supplies like food and groceries are still delivered by horseback. The village is scenic with wide sandy beaches and lots of cottonwood trees for relaxation.

Make plans now to explore this Arizona treasure by booking your adventure online today.

When the long dark days of winter seem to never end, planning a Grand Canyon vacation can be just the ticket for shaking the wintertime blues. Just a moment standing surrounded by warm breezes over a majestic expanse of thousands of years of rock and sand is so awe inspiring that travelers will quickly forget the snow and ice left behind at home.

For those guided by experienced trekkers, there is a hidden treasure nestled deeply in side canyons just a small hike from the Grand Canyon where family adventure vacations really start. Imagine the cooling spray of waterfalls cascading into travertine pools spring fed with pure water surrounded by lush vegetation. An almost tropical paradise sits right there in the midst of the Grand Canyon where only those with the courage to strike out on foot will ever have the opportunity to see.  The name of place is Havasupai Falls.

Spend time hunting for fossils, exploring a Native American village and relaxing in nature’s own mineral water spa. Austin Lehman adventures to this magical experience begin in Scottsdale, Arizona the end of March and continue throughout the summer. Book your trip today by calling (800) 575-1540 or find out more about the travel itinerary right online.  

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Who doesn’t want to travel the world, seeking out amazing hikes along pristine trails, discovering hidden gems like gourmet restaurants nestled in mountain towns, or top-notch art galleries in small Mexican villages?  Today I am interviewing Dan Austin, Co-Founder and Director of Austin-Lehman Adventures – the man behind many exciting vacations here at ALA.

Dan, your job sounds so exciting!  You own and run an adventure travel company. Has this always been your dream job?

I was destined to be involved in adventure travel as long as I can remember.  I grew up in California and organized trips to the mountains as soon as I could drive. Shortly after graduation I headed north and ended up not getting too far, stopping in Oregon, which led to my first official involvement in Adventure Travel where I ran a small rafting company to feed my thirst for adventure.  From there I moved to Alaska (with a few other stops along the way). Anyone who’s ever lived in Alaska knows that you instantly become that friend in Alaska that helps everyone with their incoming travel plans.” That was just the case for me. I spent years creating the perfect Alaska Adventure for all my relatives and visiting friends.  It only made sense that my first new trip some 15 years ago with Backcountry Tours was Alaska.  So I guess it is safe to say this is truly my dream job and what I was destined for.

What got you started in the business?

That one is pretty simple, as I said I loved setting up trips for others and after some 25 years in construction was looking for a change. An opportunity presented itself to become a partner in an established company, Backcountry Tours, and I jumped in with both feet.

Do you get the opportunity to go on many ALA vacations in a year?

I think that is a bit of an understatement.  My role has evolved over the years to focus more on trip development, quality control and strategic planning.  So yes, I do get to see a lot of country.  Just last year I was in Panama, Costa Rica, South Africa, Germany, Holland, Alaska and Washington to name a few.  But there are some trips I just cannot get enough of. I try to get on our Yellowstone Adventure at least a few times a year.

What’s your favorite thing about adventure travel?

Honestly, it has to be the people – those I have met and will get to meet. From our great guides and staff to seeing a youngster light up at the sight of their first bear or whale on one of our adventures,  I never tire of sharing the experiences of adventure travel with others.  I have been blessed with quality travel opportunities and try and share it with as many people as I can.

Let’s talk about trip planning.  I’ve always wondered what goes into developing a new adventure.  When you’re building a new vacation, what do you look for?

That is a tough one. It varies from destination to destination.  I mean, I wouldn’t look for the same thing in a South Africa Adventure as I would in a new bike trip in Germany.  Typically I start with some level of insight or a suggestion from someone that has been there or wants to go.  In other words, we might have a past guest that says something like, Hey Dan, why don’t you build a new adventure in Peru? We have always wanted to see Lake Titicaca and I hear it’s fabulous.”  Another time you might have a guide just come back from a personal adventure from someplace like Havasupai in the Grand Canyon and say something like, “Geez, why don,t we have a Havasupai Adventure?  It’s incredible with all the pristine waterfalls and beautiful trails and camp spots.”  Both of these examples have led to new trips.

What kind of research do you do when you decide on new destinations?

Once I get a “tip” I just start looking further into it.  Researching on the web has made trip development a lot easier, but I also use great resources like the magazine National Geographic Adventure.  I can honestly say the one thing we do not do is just knock off other tour operators.  We want each trip to be an Austin-Lehman original.  Once I have a better understanding of an area, that’s when the fun starts and a trip to the area is scheduled.  If I can bring along a guide or someone that has been there, great.  If not, I just start knocking on doors and checking out trails and rides and such.  It often takes several visits, endless hours of research, and several dry runs to get a trip where we want it.

Do you personally scout out all the new trips and destinations?

Paul and I agreed many years ago that we do not want to put guests on a trip unless one of us has run the program start to finish.  That too has evolved over the years. Sometimes we invite our Alumni to join us the first time we run a trip with guests; we call these “First Ascents.”  Typically on a First Ascent either Paul or I (or both) will have developed the trip and run it through at least once without guests, tweaking along the way.  Once we run the trip with Alumni, we look to them for good constructive feedback.  We recently ran a new program, our Washington Cascades Adventure, and got some great feedback from 9 of our Alumni.  We have improved the trip to the point it’s now one of my all time favorites.

Read the second installment of my interview with Dan covering our exciting new European vacations!

Read the third installment of my interview with Dan about adventure trips and tips.