What is the location and geography of Slide Rock State Park?
Slide Rock State Park is situated in Oak Creek Canyon, 7 miles north of Sedona, Arizona, and 21 miles south of Flagstaff. The park is at an elevation of 5,000 feet and is co-managed by Arizona State Parks and the U.S. Forest Service.
What is the history of the Pendley Homestead at Slide Rock State Park?
Frank L. Pendley arrived in the canyon in 1907 and acquired the land under the Homestead Act in 1910. He developed an irrigation system and planted an apple orchard in 1912. Pendley’s orchard grew to over 750 trees, and he built rustic tourist cabins in 1933. The orchard operated until 1982 when the family decided to sell the property. The land was then purchased by Arizona State Parks from the Arizona Parklands Foundation in 1985 and officially dedicated as Slide Rock State Park in October 1987.
What are the details of the natural rock water slide at Slide Rock State Park?
The natural rock water slide, formed by the slippery bed of Oak Creek, is approximately 80 feet long and varies in width, but it is generally around 2.5 to 4 feet wide. The slide is one of the most popular attractions in the park, known for its scenic setting and unique natural feature.
What are the rules for visiting Slide Rock State Park?
- Camping is not allowed within the park.
- Glass containers are prohibited to ensure safety.
- Pets are not allowed down by the water and must be contained or on a leash within the park.
- The park offers picnic tables, a snack bar, flush toilets with sinks and running water, and drinking water.
What other information is important to know about Slide Rock State Park?
- Entrance fees are required, and the park is on the more expensive side due to its popularity.
- Hours vary seasonally; check the official park website for details.
- Besides the natural rock slide, the park offers picnicking, hiking trails (including Pendley Homestead Trail, Slide Rock Route, and Clifftop Nature Trail), wildlife watching, and photography opportunities.
- Slide Rock State Park attracted 254,584 visitors in 2005 and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Arizona.
- The Pendley Homestead Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1991.
- Slide Rock State Park has been named one of Fordor’s Travel Top 10 state parks in the United States and was voted the fifth best swimming hole in the country by USA Today readers.