Sliding Rock NC

Updated: 5/18/2022

Looking for some summertime water fun in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolna?  Look no further than Sliding Rock NC. People and families have been coming to Sliding Rock NC, located in Pisgah National Forest in NC for years and years.

Sliding Rock Video

Here is a short video we took during a late summer visit to Sliding Rock.   Be aware that during peak summer months, Sliding Rock is far more busy.

All about Sliding Rock NC

Sliding Rock is a 60' natural water slide that you can slide down and then plunge into a deep pool of water at the bottom.  The pool at the bottom is 8 foot deep, so you'll want to know how to swim.  

During busy times, the line to slide extends the entire length of the 60' boulder, along the metal fence shown in the photo above.

People wait their turn to get into their favorite spot and then slide through the 50-60 degree water.   The water is cold, but refreshing.   More than 11,000 gallons of water flow over sliding rock each minute to propel you down the slide and into the pool.  Sliding Rock is incredibly popular, and can often be very busy during the summer months, especially on weekends.

Sliding Rock NC is open year round during daylight hours, and this includes during the offseason and winter.  You can slide during the off-season times, but the water is colder than usual and there are no lifeguards or staff on duty.

Lifeguards are on duty during peak season from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM.  The cost to enter when lifeguards are on duty is $4/person.  Children under 6 years of age are free.  Visiting during off hours is free.

In addition to sliding and swimming, there is an observation deck with benches and seats, where you can relax and watch people sliding.  

There are full restrooms and changing facilities at Sliding Rock.  For food, you'll need to drive to Brevard, NC were there are plenty of places to eat.  The restrooms do close in the evenings when the lifeguards leave.

Where should you slide?

There are three main sliding paths from the center starting point at the top.

The left side is the slowest, and is best for those sliding for the first few times, and that have little experience

The middle track, straight down is faster, but still only a medium speed.

The right side, where the water mainly flows is the fastest, and best for those with more experience.

In Case of Emergency

In the event of an emergency or injury, you'll want to call 911 if possible.   The Transylvania County Sheriffs Dept is reachable at: 828-884-3168

Your Physical location: Sliding Rock Recreation Center, 7851 Pisgah Highway, Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

Transylvania Regional Hospital: 260 Hospital Drive, Brevard NC 28712 - 828-213-1111

Tips for visiting Sliding Rock NC

Here are a few tips to help make your visit to Sliding Rock North Carolina more enjoyable!

1. The pool at the bottom is 8 foot deep, so you need to know how to swim.  Children under 7 must slide with an adult.
2. The water is cold.   Water temperatures average around 50 degrees year round.  Bring a towel to stay warm, and we recommend bringing a change of clothing.
3. No floatation devices (like tubes, floaties or noodles) are allowed.  Only life jackets are permitted.
4. Blue Jean shorts are recommended.  Bathing suits will work, but they can get worn through pretty quickly when sliding down the rock.  Water shoes are also highly recommended, as the rocks can be slick.
5. During the prime time hours of summer, the parking area can often fill up.  To avoid the crowd, arrive before 11am or after 4pm.
6. No alcohol or picnicking is allowed.
7. Life guard are on duty during the peak summer months, from 10am - 6pm

Sliding Rock FAQ

Here are some common questions and answers about Sliding Rock NC.

Why is Sliding Rock NC closed?

Sliding Rock is normally open 24x7, but staffed from 10am - 6pm during peak season, from memorial day to Labor day and on weekends only from Spring to Fall.    It can however be closed for maintenance or due to heavy rains or water volumes that make swimming/sliding dangerous.

After the severe flooding of 2021, Sliding Rock was closed for over a year while crews worked to clean out debris and make the area safe for swimmers again.

Is Sliding Rock worth it?

Most definitely and many others feel the same way based on the crowds.  The wait in line is pretty short even on the busiest days.  The fun and thrill of sliding down and plunging into the crisp cool waters at the bottom is definitely worth it!  

Where can I slide on a rock in North Carolina?

You can slide down Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest.  The rock is 60 foot long, and you'll plunge into a crisp and cold 8 foot deep pool at the the bottom.  Climb back up and do it all over again.  Sliding rock is about 8 miles outside of Brevard NC on Highway 276

How cold is the water at Sliding Rock North Carolina?

The water temperature at Sliding Rock is about 55 degrees year-round making it the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day!

How long do people spend at Sliding Rock?

It varies greatly.  Some people bring picnics and spend all day, while others slide for a few hours and take off.   The majority of visitors spend 2-4 hours, and generally in the afternoon.

Nearby Locations to visit

Sliding Rock Photos

Here are some photos of a family enjoying the crisp and cool waters of Sliding Rock North Carolina on a late summer weekday, before all of the visitors arrived.