Feel the rush of sliding down a 60-foot all-natural water slide in the heart of gorgeous Pisgah National Forest. The aptly named Sliding Rock is an experience like no other, and it’s one of the most exhilarating ways to cool off in the warmer months.
People of all ages line up to take the plunge down the sloping rock face waterfall on their way to landing in an 8-foot-deep pool of water. The water is only 50 to 60 degrees during peak season, so it’s guaranteed to be an invigorating adventure! If sliding isn’t your thing, there are two observation decks where you can witness the fun from a safe distance.
Sliding Rock is extremely popular, so it’s a good idea to arrive early and avoid the busiest hours of noon to 4 p.m. When the parking lot is full, it closes until spaces are available.
Things to Do Near Sliding Rock
One of the best things about Sliding Rock is that it’s just minutes away from dozens of other waterfalls and beautiful trails that line Highway 276, known as the Forest Heritage National Scenic Byway. Go ahead, make it a day of forest adventures!
The popular, family-friendly Moore Cove Falls Trail is just a mile away, and the thundering roadside waterfall Looking Glass Falls is 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 about seven miles north.
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 be done between Memorial Day and Labor Day, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. when lifeguards are on duty and the bathrooms/changing rooms are open. To avoid the crowds, avoid visiting during the peak hours of noon to 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. When the parking lot reaches capacity, you’ll be asked to wait to access until another vehicle leaves.
Does Sliding Rock ever close?
Sliding Rock is open year-round but is only staffed with lifeguards from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The recreation area does sometimes close due to heavy rainfall and increased water levels. Before leaving for Sliding Rock, check with Sliding Rock directly on Instagram or Facebook.
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 the off season. No advance tickets or reservations are available.
What are the rules and 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.
