The dry and barren trail through Havasu Canyon refuses to give up the secret of what waits just eight miles away: an oasis of tumbling waterfalls and lush greenery, with turquoise pools that would seem more at home in Hawaii than in a remote corner of Arizona.

That’s precisely the draw of Havasupai Falls, a roughly four-mile gorge in the Grand Canyon carved over the eons by spring-fed Havasu Creek.

The Havasupai Tribe has for years opened its land to those wishing to explore what may well be the Southwest’s most beautiful tourist destination.

But hiking Havasu Canyon isn’t easy. There are numerous considerations: permits, reservations, weather, hike difficulty and trip planning.

Here are answers to the big questions about planning a Havasupai Falls hike…

The dry and barren trail through Havasu Canyon refuses to give up the secret of what waits just eight miles away: an oasis of tumbling waterfalls and lush greenery, with turquoise pools that would seem more at home in Hawaii than in a remote corner of Arizona.

That’s precisely the draw of Havasupai Falls, a roughly four-mile gorge in the Grand Canyon carved over the eons by spring-fed Havasu Creek.

The Havasupai Tribe have for years opened their land to those wishing to explore what may well be the Southwest’s most beautiful tourist destination.

But getting to Havasupai Falls isn’t easy. There are numerous considerations: permits, reservations, weather, hike difficulty and trip planning.

Hiking/campground permits are released for the coming season (March through February) at 8 a.m. Arizona time on Feb. 1 each year. Permits go fast. Within four to five hours, only the least desirable dates are available, typically November and February of the following year.

Starting with switchbacks down canyon walls, the trail quickly levels out as it threads through an ever-narrowing gorge. Plan on a minimum of four hours going in and six hours coming out, depending on your fitness level and backpack weight. And remember: No water is available along the trail.

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This stunning swimming hole is in a remote part of the Grand Canyon and accessible only by a 10-mile hike in or by helicopter. The land is administered by the Havasupai Tribe, which has lived in the area for more than 1,000 years. Known as Havasu ‘Baaja — or people of the blue-green waters — the people are inseparable from the identity of the land.

It’s easy to emotionally invest in this landscape. From the first glimpse of the water, it’s difficult to resist being captivated by its unbelievably bright color.

This is also an immensely popular destination. The falls are crowded and the campground spots are tight. Expect close quarters and to get to know your fellow campers. You will likely hike in and out with a large group of people, which is both comforting and a little pesky if you’re looking for a pristine trail and a solitary experience. It’s kind of like the Disneyland of backpacking trips — nobody gets to ride Space Mountain in their own car and nobody gets to experience this place without company. You’ll wait in line and you will deal with other people. If you’re OK with that and the trade-off is worth it to you, then you’ll have a great time. If you want to experience unadulterated nature on your own, however, this isn’t the trip for you. This can also be a difficult hike, especially as temperatures rise.

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