North Carolina Has A Secret 60-ft Natural Water Slide
The Tar Heel State is chock full of adventures just waiting to be crossed off your bucket list. Before the weather cools off, head to Sliding Rock in North Carolina to experience a "natural water park." You can glide down a giant nature-made water slide at this super fun spot and channel your inner kid.
Sliding Rock is a hidden gem tucked away in Pisgah National Forest, surrounded by gorgeous scenery. There, you can discover a large rock waterfall among the trees.
This awesome spot is just 2 hours and 30 minutes from Charlotte by car — the ultimate day trip from the Queen City. Bring your most adventurous besties along for the ride.
Visit "Mother Earth's playground" soon and make a splash before the weather turns chilly. You're in for a major adrenaline rush on this extraordinary excursion.
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How do you get there?
Sliding Rock is situated deep in Pisgah National Forest. Since Google Maps won't take you straight to the falls, you can use the more specific directions charted by seasoned local travelers to the area below.
First, drive to the intersection of NC Highway 280 / U.S. Highway 64 / U.S. Highway 276. From there, head north on 276 for about 7.5 miles.
Then, turn left after the U.S. Fee Area sign into the parking lot. Keep in mind that parking is limited. There's a booth where you can pay for admission before walking to Sliding Rock.
What is the experience really like?
After paying the entrance fee, climb the pathway alongside the rock to reach the top. The line may be long during peak hours between noon and 4 p.m.
When it's your turn, sit down and scoot forward until the falls send you gliding down the rock face. It'll end with a splash in the swimming hole below. Play the video above to watch someone slide down the falls!
The pool at the bottom is about eight feet deep, so swimming skills are essential. The water is pretty chilly, so it's best to visit on a warm day. You might want to wear a wetsuit to stay warm and slide down more easily.
When is it open?
This incredible spot is open during the warm weather months in North Carolina, perfect for cooling off in the heat.
The regular season lasts from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Visitors are welcome during the off-season on weekends through November 1.
Admission is just $4 for unlimited access on weekends, perfect for budget travelers. During the week, there is no lifeguard on duty so the price is only $2.
The slide is sometimes closed due to high water levels. You can visit Sliding Rock's Twitter to check for closures before you go.
Sliding Rock
Price: $4 unlimited access on weekends, $2 weekdays (no lifeguard on weekdays)
When: Weekends from October 1, 2020, through November 1, 2020
Address: Highway 276, Pisgah National Forest, NC
Why You Need To Go: This Earth-made water park is a must if you love unique adventures.
Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.