Sliding Rock Natural Waterslide

Sliding Rock

Feel the rush of sliding down a 60-foot all-natural water slide in the heart of gorgeous Pisgah National Forest! The appropriately named Sliding Rock is an experience unlike any other and it’s one of the most exciting ways to cool off in the warmer weather months.

People of all ages lineup to take the plunge down the sloping rock face waterfall on their way to landing into an 8-foot-deep pool of water. Given that the water is about 50-60 degrees during the season, it’s sure to be a refreshing adventure! If sliding isn’t your thing, there are two observation decks where you can experience the fun from a safe distance.

The best time to slide is between Memorial Day and Labor Day when lifeguards are on duty and the on-site bathroom/changing rooms are open. Sliding Rock is extremely popular, so visitors are encouraged to arrive early and avoid rush hours of noon to 4 p.m. When the parking lot is full, it closes until spaces are available. There is a fee of just $4 per person  to enter the recreation area. Credit card is the preferred method of payment but cash and check are also accepted.

Things to Do Near Sliding Rock

One of the best things about Sliding Rock is that it is just minutes away from dozens of other waterfalls and beautiful trails that line Highway 276, known as the Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway. So, you can make a day of your forest adventures!

The popular family-friendly Moore Cove Falls Trail is just a mile away and the thundering roadside waterfall Looking Glass Falls is just two miles away. The trailheads for more challenging hikes to Looking Glass Rock and John Rock (which offer stunning views!) are about three miles away. And, the Blue Ridge Parkway is just about seven miles north.

360 View - Sliding Rock

 

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Know Before You Go

When is Sliding Rock open?

Sliding Rock is open year-round for viewing, seven days a week during daylight hours. However, sliding should only been done during season, Memorial Day to Labor Day, when lifeguards are on duty. Lifeguards are on duty and the bathrooms/changing rooms are open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. To avoid the crowds, avoid visiting during peak hours of noon-4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. When the parking lot reaches capacity, you will be asked to wait to access until another vehicle leaves.

How much does it cost to visit Sliding Rock?

$4 per person during season; credit card is the preferred method of payment. Cash and check are also accepted. It is free to visit during off hours and off season.

No advance tickets or reservations are available.

Does Sliding Rock ever close?

Sliding Rock is open year-round but is only staffed with lifeguards from about May through September. Facilities are only open during that time.

The recreation area does sometimes close due to heavy rainfall and increased water levels. Before leaving for Sliding Rock visitors should check Instagram or Facebook.

What are the restrictions when visiting Sliding Rock?

No alcohol and no picnicking are permitted

May I bring my pet to Sliding Rock?

Pets are allowed in the recreation area but they must be on leash. Pets are not allowed to slide down the rock.

Directions to Sliding Rock

Sliding Rock is approximately 40 miles (55-minute drive) from downtown Asheville.

GPS can be unreliable in getting you to Sliding Rock so please bring these directions with you.

From downtown Asheville, take I-240 West to I-26 East. Take I-26 East to Exit 40 (NC-280 W/Airport Rd.). Turn right on NC-280 and travel 15.9 miles to turn on US-276 North near the town of Brevard. Follow US-276 North for 7.7 miles to Sliding Rock recreation area on the left.