If you love picnicking and water recreation in astoundingly beautiful landscape, this is a natural attraction you don't want to miss. Slide Rock State Park is located about 7 miles north of Sedona along Highway 89A in Oak Creek Canyon which has been named by Rand McNally as one of America's Most Scenic Drives. Get ready for a blast for the whole family. When summer arrives, lucky folks flock to this paradise.
"Slide Rock" is named after a natural water slide that gradually descends down Oak Creek. Rocks and boulders that have been worn smooth over millions of years by flowing water line the bottom of the creek forming a slippery natural water chute. The fun and excitement never ends as swimmers briskly slide down the chute until it levels out and then they trek back to the starting point and do it again and again and again.
If you go, wear old tennies and a pair of cutoff jeans. Although slippery and safe if you are careful, the smooth rocks will wear-out what you are wearing. It's always wise to take a change of clothes.
More Than A Water Chute.
It is gorgeous here. The scenery is magnificent and the park includes picnic tables, barbecue grills, volleyball courts, restrooms and even a market that sells snacks and picnic supplies and even apples during season that grow in the nearby orchards that that are harvested in September and October. The apple tree blossoms arrive in mid-April.
Fishing is permitted in Oak Creek that contains Brown Trout. A fishing license is required. There are short hiking trails around the creek that meander through unspoiled backcountry views and the old Pendley homestead built in 1907. The original irrigation system that was created to water Pendley's orchards are still being used today.
There are cliffs west of the creek that will reward you with striking views down Oak Creek Canyon. And when you're done chuting the slide, hiking, eating and there is still daylight, swim or just relax in the refreshing water pools that dot the creek.
Climate At Slide Rock Park.
This water recreation wonderland sits at an elevation of about 4.930 feet creating summer temperatures that rarely exceeds 100 degrees F while the water temperature hovers at about 63 degrees. Late spring, summer and early fall are the best times to visit. The winter temperatures brings cool days to cold nights and is not a good time to play in the waters although hikes can be enjoyable. Always be prepared and dress in layers.
Photo Gallery
These photos are compliments of several photographers that permitted the use of these pictures and images of Red Rock State Park under the Creative Commons License.
Park Hours.
8:00 AM to 7:00PM
8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
What's All This Fun Cost?
Admission is charged when you enter the park through the official gate. Present fees are $7 per car but are subject to change. Some roadside parking could be available on the main road and you can avoid the fee if you're willing to climb down the cliffs to the creek. The walk is very scenic but can be inconvenient is you are carrying picnic items. The fee is well worth the fun and views you will experience.
Directions To Slide Rock.
From Phoenix. Take Interstate 17 North to Highway 179. Take 179 West through Sedona to Highway 89A. Driving distance from the Phoenix area is about 110 to 125 miles. Slide Rock State Park is about 7 miles North of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon.