Outbound Collective logo

Explore Slide Rock State Park

6871 Arizona 89A, Arizona

4.6/5
based on 5 reviews

Description

Added by Laura Hill

What an experience! Whether it’s a toasty Arizona summer and you’re wanting to splash in the cool waters of Oak Creek, or do a short hike above the red rocks, this is a great place for individuals and families alike.

This beautiful State Park, which is the original location of the Pendley Homestead, is a historic apple farm (the apple trees are still there!). This is a favorite stop for families in the summertime, so if you come then, make sure to arrive early.  It’s common to find throngs of people in the creek, or at any of the many picnic areas (close to the parking lot). 

There is a cute little store on the way to the water area, which has snacks and drinks available for purchase.  There are also multiple restroom locations.

Trails:

Pendley Homestead Trail: 0.25-mile paved trail goes through a portion of the historic Pendley Homestead. Features along the trail include some of the original apple orchards, Pendley Homestead house, the apple packing barn, an assortment of historical farming equipment, and beautiful views views of Oak Creek Canyon.

Slide Rock Route: This is a 0.3-mile moderate trail (although I do think it’s on the easier side of moderate), requires a small amount of rock hopping.  It runs along Oak Creek is the main access to the Slide Rock Swim Area. Very popular and features a natural water slide.  You can also continue on along the creek bed, making your own route (and potentially getting away from some of the crowds).

Clifftop Nature Trail: This is a 0.25-mile, very easy trail that begins near the apple barn and offers lovely views overlooking the Slide Rock swim area.

Before going, make sure to visit the Slide Rock State Park websiteNote that there is an admittance fee.

NOTE: One of the coolest times to go is in spring, when the creek swells due to snow runoff.  NO swimming during this time, but it’s a spectacular site to see!

*Always remember to leave no trace – if you pack it in, pack it out!

Phone: (928) 282-3034

Address: 6871 N. Highway 89A, Sedona, AZ 86336

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Chillin
Photography
Swimming
Hiking
Bathrooms
Easy Parking
Groups
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildlife
Swimming Hole

Explore Slide Rock State Park Reviews

I visited this park while on a road trip through the Grand Canyon and Sedona. I went on a Saturday in June. We arrived by 8:30 am and were able to get a parking spot, but it appeared the parking lot filled shortly after we arrived.

Loved this park! Enjoyed walking the creek bank. So many places to explore here.

If you don't like crowds, stay far away. In the summer months of Arizona this is an incredibly busy place. There are so many other swimming holes in Sedona where you can enjoy the water and not have to worry about an e-coli infection, which is common in this park.

Slide Rock has always been a great family friendly park. The water carved natural slides through the red rocks for hours of swimming and fun. The park can fill up quickly, especially on holidays and weekends

Great way to beat the heat from Phoenix and enjoy time sliding in the rock pools.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Picnic at Banjo Bill

Swim in Oak Creek Canyon

Climbing at Oak Creek Canyon

West Fork Trail

Camp at East Pocket (Edge of the World)

Dispersed Camping in Coconino National Forest (Edge of the World)