Hualapai Lodge Review: Where to Stay Before Havasupai
If you are planning a trip to the world-famous blue-green waterfalls of Havasu Canyon, figuring out where to sleep on “Day 0” is just as important as securing your permit. The Hualapai Lodge in Peach Springs, Arizona, is the absolute best starting point for your adventure. I stayed there both the night before and the night after my hike, and it completely enhanced the experience.
Staying at the Hualapai Lodge keeps you close to the action and takes the stress out of your pre-hike logistics. For a complete breakdown of what to bring and how to plan your Havasupai backpacking trip, make sure to check out my comprehensive Havasupai Packing List and Trip Itinerary before you hit the road.
Where to Stay Before Havasupai
The key to a successful Havasupai hike is beating the desert heat with an early start. On our trip, we left San Diego, met up at the lodge to rest, and prepped our gear in a clean, air-conditioned space.
- The Location: Located right on historic Route 66 in Peach Springs, it cuts down your morning commute significantly.
- The Morning Drive: We left the lodge at 4:30 AM and arrived at the Hualapai Hilltop trailhead in about 1 hour and 20 minutes, allowing us to hit the trail just before 6:00 AM.
Why Stay Here After Your Hike
Hiking 10 miles back out of the canyon, especially with that final 1.5 miles of steep, uphill switchbacks, is grueling. Coming back to the lodge for a second night was the best decision we made. It gave us a chance to unwind, take a long hot shower, and completely relax after the adventure without the stress of a long drive home.
Property Amenities & Comforts
- The Pool & Hot Tub: The on-site outdoor pool and hot tub are open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Soaking our sore muscles in the hot tub after hiking 20+ miles total was pure heaven.
- On-Site Dining: The Diamond Creek Restaurant specializes in classic American cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s perfect for fueling up on a cooked-to-order breakfast before you leave, or crushing a massive dinner when you return.
- Room Comforts: The rooms are soundproofed, ensuring a quiet night’s sleep before your early alarm. They also include an in-room microwave and refrigerator, which are essential for storing your trail snacks, cooling your hydration bladders, or keeping ice cream leftovers cold.
- Pet Friendly: If you are traveling with a furry trail companion, the lodge allows pets in specific rooms for a fee of $25 per pet per night (service animals are exempt).
