Slide Rock State Park is one of Sedona’s most popular attractions and one of Arizona’s most unique outdoor destinations. Located within the spectacular scenery of Oak Creek Canyon, the park is famous for its natural sandstone water slide, crystal-clear creek waters, dramatic red rock cliffs, and rich pioneer history.

Spanning more than 40 acres, Slide Rock State Park attracts visitors from around the world seeking outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, swimming opportunities, hiking, photography, and family-friendly recreation. The park's centerpiece is an 80-foot-long natural rock chute formed by smooth sandstone that allows visitors to slide through cool flowing water beneath the towering canyon walls.

Beyond its famous water slide, the park offers breathtaking views of Sedona’s iconic red rock formations, shaded picnic areas, walking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and access to the beautiful waters of Oak Creek. The combination of lush canyon vegetation, flowing water, and towering sandstone cliffs creates one of the most picturesque settings in northern Arizona.

Visitors can enjoy swimming, wading, hiking, birdwatching, photography, and exploring the park's historic apple orchard. During warmer months, Slide Rock becomes one of the most sought-after destinations in Sedona for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and travelers looking to experience the natural beauty of Arizona's canyon country.

Today, Slide Rock State Park remains one of the most visited state parks in Arizona and is consistently ranked among the top things to do in Sedona.

Unlike many of Sedona's geological landmarks, Slide Rock State Park combines both natural history and human history. The park's famous natural water slide was not built by people. Instead, it was formed over millions of years through the geological processes that shaped Oak Creek Canyon. Flowing water gradually polished the smooth red sandstone creek bed, creating the natural chute that visitors enjoy today. Continuous erosion from Oak Creek carved the canyon and sculpted the rock formations that define the landscape.

The human history of the site began in the early 1900's when pioneer settler Frank L. Pendley established what became known as the Pendley Homestead. Arriving in Oak Creek Canyon in 1910, Pendley recognized the area's agricultural potential and developed an extensive irrigation system to support a thriving apple orchard. Using a hand-built network of irrigation ditches and water channels, Pendley transformed the canyon floor into one of Arizona's most successful orchard operations. Over time, the orchard expanded to include thousands of fruit trees and became an important agricultural landmark in northern Arizona.

Many of the original orchard structures, irrigation systems, and historic buildings remain preserved within the park today. Visitors can still see portions of the historic Pendley Homestead and learn about early pioneer life in Sedona through interpretive exhibits and educational displays. Recognizing both the natural beauty and historical significance of the property, the State of Arizona acquired the land in the 1980s. In 1987, the site officially became Slide Rock State Park, preserving both the natural landscape and the rich agricultural history of Oak Creek Canyon.

Today, the park serves as a living reminder of both the geological forces that shaped Sedona's famous red rock landscapes and the pioneering spirit of the early settlers who called the canyon home.

• Home to Sedona's famous natural sandstone water slide 
• Stunning red rock scenery in Oak Creek Canyon 
• Historic apple orchard and pioneer homestead 
• Swimming, wading, and creekside recreation 
• Family-friendly outdoor adventure 
• Excellent photography opportunities 
• Scenic hiking and walking trails 
• Wildlife viewing and birdwatching 
• One of Arizona's most unique state parks

Best Scenic Driving Tour to Slide Rock State Park

• Two Hour: Red Rock Vista Tour (15+ People)