Slide Rock in Sedona has been named one of “America’s Top 10 Swimming Holes” by USA Today. This ingenious achievement of Mother Nature is one of the must-do destinations in Sedona. For a thrill of your life, shimmy down the natural rock water slide into a set of shimmering swimming holes, or experience a simple float in the water. Many people don’t recognize a trip to Arizona finished without a slide down Slide Rock.
Slide Rock State Park aerial view.
The historic apple orchard in Oak Creek Canyon which is also home to Slide Rock State Park was originally the pioneering property of Frank L. Pendley. He was more prosperous than most, establishing his first orchard in 1912 with his innovative watering method that is still used by the park now. The Pendley Homestead is also home to an orchard with more than 300 apple trees. Each September, visitors can enjoy the fruit at the State Park’s annual apple festival.
The signature “Slide Rock” comes from the slick bottom of the creek. The State Park has the equally striking red tones as Sedona’s other famous landmarks, presenting a fascinating and lively contract against the crystal water and green, desert underbrush.
The actual rock slide area at Slide Rock State Park is approximately 80 ft long and ranges anywhere from 2.5 to 4 feet wide on your trip down. With a 7 percent decline from top to bottom, you’re in for a quick ride!
Ever wondered what carries you down to the bottom of the Slide? With help from gravity and some natural algae on the rocks, it creates a smooth, slippery ride down to the end of the drop.
People playing at Slide Rock State Park
The fresh creek reservoir is not the only draw for visitors to Slide Rock. Famous red rocks and desert scenery surround Slide Rock State Park. Slide Rock is so picturesque that many movies, including “Angel and the Badman” (1946) with John Wayne, have been filmed at the State Park.
The creek is welcoming for aquatics, wading, floating, and sunbathing. Guests can also launch down a natural chute into the pond below. Sliding down Slide Rock is a different thrill that combines waterpark activity with an outdoor experience.
The Slide Rock swim area is approximately 1/2 mile of creek. There are various places to swim and paddle, as well as the popular Slide.
Hiking trails, fishing, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing are also available nearby and throughout the Slide Rock State Park. Here at the Slide Rock State Park are three high-thrill hiking trails to explore before you chill out in the water. These hiking trails include:
Check out our full Sedona Hiking Trail Guide to learn more.
Slide Rock State Park has all the fun of a water park, with all Sedona’s natural beauty surrounding. Your family pets are permitted inside Slide Rock State Park (contained or on a leash), but they are not permitted down by the water.
Playing at Slide Rock State Park
November 1 – January 31: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
February 1 – April 30: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
May – Labor Day: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Tuesday after Labor Day – October 31: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
* Verify hours on the official Slide Rock State Park website.
Park Entrance Fees (Per Vehicle):
October – February: $ March 10 1 – May 24: $ May 20 25 – Labor Day:
Monday – Thursday: $20
Friday – Sunday and holiday Mondays: $30
Tuesday after Labor Day – September 30: $20
Motorcycle: Entry fee is 50 percent of the per vehicle fee
Individual/bicycle: $3
After a day of fun in the sun, it’s always nice to come back to a comfortable home of your own. Chill out in one of our vacation rentals with a hot tub to rest your aching feet from all the climbing and sliding you have done. ILoveSedona.com is here to put the cherry on top of your unforgettable Sedona getaway.
