Slide Rock State Park is so-called because of its prime attraction, Slide Rock, a natural water slide and pool. The park is a popular attraction of Oak Street Canyon just 6 miles from Sedona and is a great place for sliding, swimming, or even just picnicking and enjoying the sunshine.
In 1907 the park became Frank L Pendley's homestead, and he used it to develop a way of irrigating his apple orchards by harnessing the water from the creek. This history is still remembered today, with the annual Slide Rock Apple Fest drawing in tourists from all over to celebrate its past.
Since the time of Frank the park has been used as a tourist attraction thanks to its crystal clear water flowing over smooth sandstone, creating the perfect natural water slide. The various chutes and pools are the perfect place to cool off in the desert heat, and it can often become particularly busy with everyone clamoring to slide the third-of-a-mile chute, only to do it all over again.
It's recommended to wear old swimsuits as the rocks can be abrasive and could easily ruin good clothes, and equally it's advisable to wear old shoes for the trek back to the top of the slide again. Visitors should also take precautions as it can become especially slippery thanks to a thin layer of algae often covering the rocks, so caution is always advised.
There are a number of short hiking trails in and around the park, and they offer a great way to experience the life of a traditional homestead with a number of old wooden buildings, farm equipment and the apple orchard still remaining. One such hike, the Slide Rock Route Trail, starts at the car park and takes hikers to the most popular stretch of water by walking through winding paths, down steps and over the creek.
Other hikes take visitors up the cliff for some spectacular view of the creek, or if they park further away there's a particularly tranquil walk that takes them to the main sliding area.
Admission to the park is $8 or $10 per car, depending on the season. However those who wish to park further away can do so for free, about half a mile away from the park where roadside parking is allowed, and will enjoy the 15 minute walk down to the creek bed.
Slide Rock State Park is a great way to enjoy the summer sun while escaping from some of the heat, and is the perfect spot for swimming and sliding in beautiful natural surroundings. With picnic tables, drinking water and a snack bar all provided, it offers a great day out for the whole family. And, being open all year round, there are opportunities to enjoy it in the quieter months as well as the peak season.
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