We are headed to Havasu Creek this Friday and Saturday (yes, mindful of the forecast). Apparently, there was a recent flash flood on September 8th that killed some horses and narrowly missed some hikers. I am looking for shared knowledge as to how long it takes for things to normalize in the canyon after a flash event, for the water to clear, mud to go away, etc. It would be sad to take a 15 hour drive for a sight of brown waterfalls. I called the Havasupai camping office, but they were not too helpful. All they would really say they were "open". Thank you in advance! P.S. How are the escapes to higher ground in the canyon? Many places to ride out a flash flood, or you are mostly trapped between walls?
there are plenty of places to escape to higher ground. Its not a necessarily a "slot" canyon. there are signs posted near the campground that tell you where to go during a flood. Not sure how long it takes for things to clear. I imagine it woudn't be to long. Even so, the brown falls would be somthing to see!! That place is so beautifuil in any condition
Yeah, havasupai isn't a slot canyon, so unless its a 1,000 year flood, you're going to be just fine. As for "normalizing" after a flood, that all depends on what you mean. That creek is very dynamic and changes from year to year. You can walk down the canyon and hundreds of feet from any water there are remnants of ancient travertine falls that have been dry for a loooong time. As for water clearing up? Depends on the ferocity of the flood. Anywhere from hours to weeks. Enjoy yourself, it's an amazing place for sure. Even an "outdoor pro" like me can love that place...
Glad to hear it Havasupai is one of the prettiest places I have ever been! It truly is a little slice of paradise.