Slide Rock State Park, Verde Valley Travel Guide

4.7 (5624)

Experience a natural water slide and explore a historic apple farm nestled in the stunning red rock landscape of Oak Creek Canyon.

Home
Travel Guides
Arizona
Verde Valley
Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock State Park, a 43-acre park in Oak Creek Canyon, near Sedona, Arizona, is named for the natural water slide formed by the slippery bed of Oak Creek. Originally the Pendley Homestead, a historic apple farm, it's now a popular spot for swimming and enjoying the red rock scenery.

A brief summary to Slide Rock State Park

6871 AZ-89A, Sedona, Arizona, 86336, US
Click to display
Click to display

Monday 8 am-5 pm
Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
Thursday 8 am-5 pm
Friday 8 am-5 pm
Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Sunday 8 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Slide Rock State Park.

Arrive early, especially during the summer, as the park fills up quickly and parking is limited.
Wear water shoes or sandals with good traction, as the rocks in Oak Creek can be very slippery.
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as it can get hot, and there is limited shade.
Glass containers are prohibited in the swim area.
Consider visiting during the off-season (late fall, winter, or early spring) for a more peaceful experience.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Fort Verde State Historic Park

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Verde Valley Archaeology Center and Museum

Montezuma Well

Camp Verde Historical Society

Explore Slide Rock State Park on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Slide Rock State Park, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Slide Rock State Park

Buy tickets

No tickets available

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Getting There

Driving

Slide Rock State Park is located on Highway 89A, about 7 miles (11 km) north of Sedona and 21 miles south of Flagstaff. From Sedona, head north on 89A. The drive is scenic, but parking at the park is limited. Entrance fees are $20 per vehicle (1-4 adults) Monday to Thursday and $30 Friday to Sunday. Be prepared for potential delays during peak season. Parking is included in the entrance fee.
Public Transport

While there's no direct public transportation to Slide Rock State Park, Greyhound USA operates a bus from Phoenix to Sedona. From Sedona, you would need to take a taxi or arrange for a ride-share service to cover the remaining distance to the park. A taxi from Sedona to Slide Rock State Park costs approximately $20-$24.

Discover more about Slide Rock State Park

Slide Rock State Park, located in Oak Creek Canyon just north of Sedona, Arizona, is a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park's centerpiece is the natural water slide carved into the sandstone of Oak Creek, offering visitors a thrilling and refreshing experience. The park is located on Coconino National Forest land and is co-managed by the Arizona State Parks agency and the United States Forest Service.Originally the Pendley Homestead, the 43-acre park tells the story of early agricultural development in Central Arizona. Frank L. Pendley settled here in 1907 and established a pioneering irrigation system that's still partially in use today. This allowed him to plant an apple orchard in 1912, which continues to produce fruit. Visitors can explore the Pendley Homestead Historic District, featuring the homestead house, apple packing shed, and rustic tourist cabins built in 1933.Today, Slide Rock State Park is one of Arizona's most popular attractions, drawing visitors who come to slide down the natural water chute, swim in Oak Creek, and soak in the stunning red rock scenery. The park offers several short hiking trails, including the Pendley Homestead Trail, Slide Rock Route, and Clifftop Nature Trail, providing different perspectives of the park's landscape and history.Note that the park can get very crowded, especially during peak season (April through October), so arriving early is highly recommended. Also, pets are not allowed in the park through September 30th.