A Surreal Journey: My Trip to Havasupai Indian Reservation with My Dad

July 2022


The vast stretches of Arizona's landscapes offer a countless experiences, but none as mesmerizing as the Havasupai Indian Reservation. In 2019, I commenced on a journey with my dad, one that would remain stuck in my memory for its surreal beauty and historical richness.

Our adventure began at the Hualapai Hilltop, the gateway to the Havasupai Reservation. As we made our descent, the raw beauty of the landscape began unfolding. The rugged terrain whispered tales of time, while the ever-changing hues of the canyons painted a canvas of nature's brilliance.

The Havasupai Reservation is not just a haven for nature enthusiasts but is also deeply rooted in history. The word 'Havasupai' translates to "people of the blue-green waters," an apt name for a tribe that has made the vibrantly colored waters of the Havasu Creek their home for over a millennium. Historically, the Havasupai people relied on farming, hunting, and foraging, living in harmony with the canyon's unique ecosystem. Despite external pressures, including forced relocations in the early 20th century, the tribe has managed to preserve its cultural legacy and maintain a deep spiritual connection to the land.

As we approached the Havasu Falls, the sight was nothing short of breathtaking. The descending waters shimmered in shades of blue and green, creating a blunt contrast to the rusty red of the canyon walls. This unimaginable oasis seemed to belong to a world far removed from reality, offering a tranquil break from the world outside.

Camping beside the falls, the night sky overhead, and the rhythmic sound of the water in the background was an experience unparalleled. With every gust of wind and rustling leaf, it felt as though the canyon and its ancestral spirits were narrating tales from ages gone by.

My impression of the Havasupai can best be described as 'surreal'. The juxtaposition of the arid desert landscape and the lush oasis, the ancient echoes of the Havasupai tribe against the backdrop of modern explorers like us, made the experience feel like a beautiful confluence of time, history, and nature.

In retrospect, this trip was more than just an exploration of a natural wonder. It was a deep dive into the history and resilience of the Havasupai people, a testament to the invincible spirit of nature, and a cherished memory with my father. The Havasupai Indian Reservation, with its ethereal beauty and rich legacy, serves as a reminder of the treasures our world holds, waiting to be explored, respected, and preserved.

2023 - Mingeon Kim