Slide Rock State Park
🏆 Arizona‘s #1 Swimming Hole — Updated for 2026 with current fees, seasonal hours, and trail closures
The water is shockingly cold. You sit on the algae-slicked red sandstone, push off, and within seconds you’re sliding — accelerating down an 80-foot chute of natural rock while Oak Creek rushes past ancient canyon walls that glow burnt orange in the afternoon sun. You hit the deep pool at the bottom, surface gasping, and immediately scramble back up the rocks to do it again. This is Slide Rock State Park — nature’s own water park, no admission wristband required.
Welcome to one of Arizona’s most beloved outdoor destinations, a 43-acre park nestled in the heart of Oak Creek Canyon just 7 miles north of Sedona. Established as a state park in 1987 on the site of the historic Pendley Homestead apple orchard (still producing fruit today), Slide Rock combines a legendary natural water slide, crystal-clear swimming holes, stunning red rock canyon scenery, and a piece of Arizona homesteading history into one compact, unforgettable package.
The star attraction is the 80-foot natural water slide — a stretch of Oak Creek where the spring-fed water rushes through a narrow sandstone flume, with algae providing just enough slickness to send riders gliding downstream into a deep, cold pool. But Slide Rock is more than a slide. The half-mile stretch of Oak Creek within the park offers dozens of pools, wading areas, and sunbathing spots framed by 500-foot red sandstone canyon walls. It’s the kind of place where families spend entire summer days, where the water stays refreshing even when Sedona hits 100°F, and where the combination of red rock, green forest, and turquoise water creates one of the most photogenic settings in Arizona.
⚠️ Parking Warning — Arrive Early!
Slide Rock’s parking lot fills by 9:00-10:00 AM on summer weekends and holidays — and once full, a one-in/one-out system means waits of 1-2 hours. The lot is small relative to the park’s popularity. Arrive before 8:00 AM on summer weekends or visit on weekdays. There is no overflow parking or shuttle service.
What Makes Slide Rock Legendary
Natural Water Slide
80-foot chute of algae-slicked sandstone — nature’s own water park ride.
Oak Creek Swimming
Crystal-clear, spring-fed water with dozens of pools and wading areas.
Oak Creek Canyon
500-foot red sandstone walls — one of Arizona’s most spectacular canyons.
Historic Apple Orchard
1912 Pendley Homestead orchard — still produces apples. Pick-your-own in October.
The Natural Water Slide
The slide is exactly what it sounds like — an 80-foot stretch of Oak Creek where the water rushes through a narrow channel carved into red sandstone. Natural algae growth on the rock creates a slippery surface that sends riders gliding downstream, sometimes slowly and sometimes surprisingly fast, into a deep pool at the bottom. It’s been entertaining visitors since long before it became a state park — locals have been sliding here for generations.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 📏 Slide Length | ~80 feet (some sources say 110 ft including run-out) |
| 💧 Water Temp | 55-65°F year-round (spring-fed — COLD even in summer) |
| 🏊 Depth at Bottom | Varies — deep pool at the base, shallow areas upstream |
| 👨👩👧 Ages | All ages can slide, but young children should be closely supervised |
| 🩴 Footwear | Water shoes or old sneakers ESSENTIAL — algae-covered rock is extremely slippery |
| 🛟 Lifeguards | NONE — swim at your own risk |
🛝 Slide Rock Pro Tips
- Old shorts recommended: The sandstone WILL abrade your swimsuit and skin. Wear old shorts/swimsuit you don’t mind getting rough. Some people wear bike shorts under swimsuits for protection
- Water shoes are non-negotiable: The algae-covered rocks are treacherous. Flip-flops don’t work. Old sneakers or water shoes with grip are essential
- The water is COLD: 55-65°F even in August. The initial shock is real, but you’ll adjust quickly. Kids may need breaks to warm up on the sunny rocks
- Best slide conditions: Higher water = faster slide (spring snowmelt, after storms). Low water = slower, may need to push yourself along
- Bruise warning: The slide is natural rock, not a polished water park. You may get minor scrapes and bruises, especially on your bottom and elbows. It’s part of the experience
Swimming Areas
Beyond the slide itself, the park protects a half-mile stretch of Oak Creek with numerous swimming holes, wading pools, and sunbathing rocks. The creek is bounded by 500-foot red sandstone walls on both sides, creating a stunning natural amphitheater.
- 🏊 Main Slide Area: The 80-ft slide and deep pool — the busiest area, for obvious reasons
- 🌊 Upstream Pools: Calmer, shallower wading areas perfect for small children. Less crowded than the slide zone
- ☀️ Sunbathing Rocks: Flat sandstone ledges along both banks — warm in the sun, perfect for drying off between dips
- 🎣 Fishing Areas: Upstream of the swim area (outside the park boundary), native brown trout and stocked rainbow trout. Arizona fishing license required
Hiking Trails
While most visitors come for the water, Slide Rock offers two short but scenic trails that showcase the park’s other attractions:
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🍎 Pendley Homestead Trail | 0.3 mi | Easy | Walk through the 1912 apple orchard and see the original homestead buildings. Interpretive signs tell the Pendley family’s pioneer story |
| 🏜️ Clifftop Nature Trail | 0.5 mi | Easy-Moderate | Climbs above the creek for panoramic overlook views of Oak Creek Canyon. Red rock formations, juniper and pine forest |
The Historic Apple Orchard
The Pendley family homesteaded this land in 1912, planting an apple orchard where irrigation channels from Oak Creek fed rows of apple trees in the red rock canyon. The orchard still produces apples today — making Slide Rock one of the few state parks in America with an active working farm. In October, the park hosts apple-picking days when visitors can harvest fruit directly from trees planted over a century ago. The original homestead structures are preserved along the Pendley Homestead Trail.
Photography Guide
📸 Best Photo Spots & Tips
• The Slide (late morning): Position yourself on the rocks above the slide looking down — action shots of sliding visitors with red canyon walls in the background. Fast shutter speed (1/500+) to freeze the spray.
• Oak Creek Canyon walls (golden hour): The canyon walls glow a deep, saturated red in the last hour before sunset. Stand in the creek looking upstream for the full canyon perspective. The contrast of red rock, green trees, and turquoise water is stunning.
• Fall colors (late Oct-Nov): The oak and sycamore trees in the canyon turn gold and russet against the red rock — one of Arizona’s best fall color displays. The Clifftop Trail overlook captures the full scene.
• Underwater shots: Bring a waterproof camera or phone case. The clarity of Oak Creek allows for beautiful underwater photos with sunlight filtering through the water above red sandstone.
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
| Season | Months | Weather | Swimming? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ☀️ Summer | Jun–Aug | 85-95°F | ✅ Prime time | 🏆 Swimming, sliding, full summer experience |
| 🌸 Spring | Mar–May | 65-85°F | ✅ (cold water, higher flow) | Fastest slide water, wildflowers, less crowded |
| 🍂 Fall | Sep–Nov | 60-80°F | ✅ Sep-Oct (if warm) | Fall colors in Oak Creek Canyon, apple picking (Oct), thinner crowds |
| ❄️ Winter | Dec–Feb | 40-55°F | ❌ Too cold | Hiking only, Canyon views, solitude |
Best Overall: Late May through mid-September for swimming. Arrive before 8 AM on any summer weekend to guarantee parking. September weekdays are the sweet spot — still warm enough to swim, but the summer crowds have thinned dramatically.
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎟️ Entry Fee | $20/vehicle (1-4 people) Oct-Apr / $30/vehicle May-Sep / $7 individual/bicycle |
| ⏰ Hours | 8 AM – 5 PM (winter) / 8 AM – 6 PM (spring/fall) / 8 AM – 7 PM (summer) |
| ⏰ Last Entry | 1 hour before closing. Swim area closes 30-60 min before park closing |
| 🐕 Pets | NOT allowed May 1 – Sep 30. Off-season: leashed only, never in swim area |
| 🍺 Glass | Glass containers PROHIBITED throughout the park |
| 🔊 Music | No amplified music (speakers, Bluetooth) allowed |
| 🚻 Restrooms | Available near parking lot (may be porta-potties during construction) |
| 📱 Cell Service | Limited in Oak Creek Canyon — download maps before arriving |
Sample Itineraries
🌅 Half-Day from Sedona (4-5 Hours)
7:30 AM — Leave Sedona heading north on AZ-89A into Oak Creek Canyon. Enjoy the spectacular canyon drive (7 miles). 8:00 AM — Arrive at Slide Rock EARLY — secure parking before the lot fills. Pay $30 entry. 8:15 AM — Walk the Pendley Homestead Trail through the apple orchard (20 min). 8:45 AM — Set up on a sunny rock near the slide area. First dip — the water is COLD but you’ll adjust. 9:00–11:30 AM — Slide, swim, sunbathe, repeat. The rocks warm up as the sun climbs, and the slide gets busier. 11:30 AM — Dry off, change clothes, and hike the Clifftop Nature Trail for canyon overlook views (30 min). 12:00 PM — Head back to Sedona for lunch or continue north on 89A for more Oak Creek Canyon scenery.
🏜️ Full Day: Slide Rock + Sedona Combo
Morning: Slide Rock (arrive at 8 AM, swim until 11 AM). Midday: Drive south to Sedona for lunch. Try the Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village. Afternoon: Red rock hike — Cathedral Rock Trail or Bell Rock Pathway. Sunset: Airport Vortex overlook for the best sunset views of Sedona’s red rock skyline.
Budget Calculator
| Expense | Half-Day Trip | Full Day with Sedona | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Entry | $30 | $30 | $20 off-season, $7 walk-in/bicycle |
| Gas (from Sedona) | $5 | $10 | Just 7 miles from Sedona |
| Food | $15-25 (pack lunch) | $40-60 | No food available in park — bring everything |
| Gear (water shoes) | $15-25 | $15-25 | One-time purchase, essential for safety |
| Total | $50-$80 | $90-$125 | Great value for Arizona’s best swimming hole |
Safety
| Hazard | Risk Level | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| 🩴 Slippery Rocks | VERY HIGH | The algae-covered sandstone is extremely slippery, both in and out of the water. Water shoes with grip are essential — flip-flops are useless and dangerous on these rocks. Falls on rocks are the #1 injury |
| 🥶 Cold Water Shock | Moderate | Water is 55-65°F even in summer. The initial shock can cause gasping and muscle cramps. Enter gradually. Watch children for signs of hypothermia (shivering, blue lips) |
| 🌊 Water Current | Moderate (after storms) | Oak Creek current increases significantly after rain. Don’t swim after storms. No lifeguards — swim at your own risk |
| ☀️ Sunburn | High | Arizona sun at 4,900 ft elevation is intense. Sunscreen (reapply after swimming), hat for dry periods, sun-protective clothing when not swimming |
| 🪨 Rock Abrasion | Low-Moderate | The natural rock slide will abrade skin and swimsuits. Wear old clothing. Some people layer bike shorts under swimsuits |
Getting There
- 📍 Address: 6871 N Highway 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
- 📍 From Sedona: 7 miles north on AZ-89A through Oak Creek Canyon (15 min)
- 📍 From Flagstaff: 22 miles south on AZ-89A through Oak Creek Canyon (35 min)
- 📍 From Phoenix: 115 miles north via I-17 and AZ-179/89A (2 hours)
- 📍 The Drive: AZ-89A through Oak Creek Canyon is one of Arizona’s most scenic drives — switchbacks, red rock walls, and creekside groves of sycamore and cottonwood
Nearby Attractions
- 🏜️ Sedona Red Rock Country: Just 7 miles south — Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Devil’s Bridge, and dozens more red rock hiking trails
- 🌲 West Fork of Oak Creek Trail: 3 miles north. A 6.9-mile out-and-back trail through one of Arizona’s most beautiful canyons — 13 creek crossings, towering canyon walls, and spectacular fall color
- 🏔️ Oak Creek Vista Overlook: 8 miles north. Stunning panoramic viewpoint over the full Oak Creek Canyon from the rim — free
- 🌋 Red Rock State Park: 15 miles south in Sedona. More hiking trails, nature center, bird watching — quieter alternative to the main Sedona vortex sites
- 🌵 Montezuma Castle National Monument: 25 miles south. Ancient cliff dwelling built by the Sinagua people — one of the best-preserved in North America
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the natural slide safe for kids?
Kids of all ages can enjoy the slide, but close supervision is essential. There are no lifeguards on duty. The water is cold (55-65°F) and the rocks are very slippery. Young children should wear water shoes with good grip and be strong enough swimmers to handle the deep pool at the bottom of the slide. Many families let kids play in the calmer upstream wading areas instead of the slide itself.
How cold is the water?
The water is spring-fed and stays between 55-65°F year-round — even when Sedona air temperatures hit 100°F. The initial shock is real, but most people adjust within a few minutes. It’s actually part of the appeal — on a 95°F summer day, the cold water is incredibly refreshing. Watch children for signs of getting too cold.
What should I wear to Slide Rock?
Swimsuit (old one — the rock WILL abrade fabric), water shoes or old sneakers with grip (absolutely essential), and sunscreen. Consider wearing old shorts or bike shorts under your swimsuit for extra protection from rock abrasion on the slide. Bring a change of dry clothes for afterward.
How early should I arrive?
On summer weekends: before 8:00 AM. The parking lot is small and fills by 9-10 AM on any summer weekend or holiday. Once full, a one-in/one-out system means long waits. Weekdays are significantly less crowded. Off-season (Oct-Apr) parking is rarely an issue.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are NOT allowed from May 1 through September 30 (peak swim season). During the off-season (Oct-Apr), dogs are allowed on leash but never in the swimming area. This is strictly enforced.
Is Slide Rock open in winter?
The park is open year-round, but swimming in winter is only for the very brave — water temperatures drop to the low 50s and air temperatures are in the 40-50°F range. Winter visits are primarily for hiking the Clifftop Nature Trail, walking the apple orchard, and enjoying the Oak Creek Canyon scenery without summer crowds.
How much does it cost?
$30 per vehicle (1-4 people) during summer season (May-Sep). $20 per vehicle during off-season (Oct-Apr). Walk-in/bicycle entry is $7/person. The fee covers all-day access — there’s no time limit once you’re in.
Can you still pick apples?
Yes! The park’s historic Pendley Homestead apple orchard still produces fruit, and October apple-picking events allow visitors to harvest directly from trees planted over 110 years ago. Check the Arizona State Parks website for specific event dates each fall.
Is there shade at the park?
Limited. The creek area has some shade from sycamore trees along the banks, but the sunbathing rocks are fully exposed. Bring your own shade in summer — a pop-up shelter or umbrella. The canyon walls provide some afternoon shade. Arrive early when the canyon floor is still in shadow.
What else can I do nearby?
Sedona is just 7 miles south — one of Arizona’s premier destinations for red rock hiking, restaurants, art galleries, and spiritual vortex sites. The West Fork of Oak Creek Trail, 3 miles north, is one of the state’s most beautiful hikes. Combine Slide Rock with Sedona for an unforgettable Arizona day trip.
🛝 Nature’s Water Park
An 80-foot sandstone flume. Spring-fed water rushing through red rock canyon walls. Ancient apple trees heavy with fruit. This is Slide Rock — where nature built a water park millions of years before humans thought of the concept. Feel the cold shock of Oak Creek on a 100-degree Arizona day. Let the algae-slicked sandstone carry you downstream. Dry off on sun-warmed rocks while 500-foot canyon walls glow orange above you. It’s the most fun you can have in a state park — and it’s just 7 miles from Sedona.
📍 Address: 6871 N Highway 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336
📞 Phone: (928) 282-3034
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Arizona state parks?
Day-use fees range from $7-$30 per vehicle depending on the park. An annual pass costs $75. Popular parks like Slide Rock have higher admission during summer due to demand.
What are the best state parks in Arizona?
Top parks include Slide Rock (natural water slide), Dead Horse Ranch (Verde River), Kartchner Caverns (living cave), Catalina (Tucson mountains), and Fool Hollow (White Mountains lake).
Do I need reservations for Kartchner Caverns?
Yes, cave tour reservations at Kartchner Caverns State Park are strongly recommended and often sell out weeks in advance. Two tour options are available, with the Big Room Tour being the most popular.
What is the best time to visit Arizona state parks?
October through April is ideal for desert and southern parks. Summer is extremely hot (110°F+) at lower elevations. High-elevation parks like Fool Hollow are excellent summer escapes. Slide Rock peaks in summer for swimming.
Explore More Arizona State Parks
Slide Rock State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Arizona. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Arizona guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
