5 Sedona Swimming Holes to Beat the Arizona Heat
Sedona’s red rock scenery is world-famous, and so is Oak Creek — the ribbon of water that cuts through town and creates some of the best natural swimming spots in northern Arizona.
These swimming holes are popular (especially in summer), but they offer exactly what visitors are looking for: cold water, shaded canyon walls, and places to float, wade, or jump in.
Some spots are steps from the road, while others require a hike. Here are five of the best places to swim in and around Sedona.
1. Halfway Picnic Area
Halfway Picnic is a U.S. Forest Service recreation site north of Sedona with a surprisingly scenic swimming hole … if you’re able to find parking.
Location
About 7 miles north of Sedona on Highway 89A, past Slide Rock State Park.
What to Expect
Parking is limited to small pullouts near the picnic area.
A short, steep set of stone steps leads down to Oak Creek, where a clear swimming hole sits beneath the trees. BBQ grills and picnic tables are available nearby.
Fees & Hours
- Day use only, 6:00am–10:00pm
- Red Rock Pass or America the Beautiful Pass required
- $5 daily / $15 weekly
- Fishing is allowed on a catch-and-release basis.
- Leashed pets are permitted.
- There’s a vault toilet and a payment kiosk in the lot.
2. Slide Rock State Park
Slide Rock State Park is Sedona’s most well-known swimming area, famous for the smooth sandstone chute that turns Oak Creek into a natural waterslide. The park is easy to access and works well for families, but it also draws large crowds on hot days.
During peak season, cars often line up along Highway 89A before the gates open, and the park closes once the parking lot fills.
Location
About 10 miles north of Sedona along Highway 89A in Oak Creek Canyon.
What to Expect
From the parking lot, a short walk (about 0.3 miles) leads to several areas along the creek. You’ll find shallow pools, deeper swimming sections, and the main slide area.
Water levels vary throughout the year. When the creek runs lower, the slide is slower and better suited for kids than adults.
Flat rock shelves line the creek, making it easy to set up chairs or spend a few hours relaxing by the water.
Fees & Hours
- Open February–November, 8:00am–6:00pm
- May–September: $30 per vehicle
- October–April: $20 per vehicle
- Arriving early in spring and summer is essential.
- Restrooms, a small store, and picnic areas are available.
The park was originally the Pendley Homestead, a historic apple orchard dating back to the early 1900s. Some of the original apple trees still grow here today.
3. Grasshopper Point
Grasshopper Point is one of the most classic Oak Creek swimming areas, with deep pools, shaded cliffs, and space to spread out. It’s often less hectic than Slide Rock, making it a favorite for locals.
Location
Just north of Sedona on Highway 89A in Oak Creek Canyon.
What to Expect
Short dirt paths lead from the parking area to several swimming spots along the creek.
The main pool is deep enough for swimming, with large boulders and small rock ledges surrounding the water.
Fees & Hours
- Open until sunset
- $15 per vehicle
- The lot holds around 40 cars and fills quickly on summer afternoons.
- Rocky terrain makes water shoes a good idea.
- Day-use only. Restrooms and picnic tables are located near the parking area.
4. The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek
The Crack is a well-known swimming hole along Wet Beaver Creek, reached by hiking the Bell Trail.
While it’s not technically in Sedona, it’s close enough to be a popular day trip from town.
Location
Bell Trailhead off Highway 179 (Forest Road 618), east of I-17.
What to Expect
The hike to the swimming hole is about 4 miles one way and fairly exposed, with limited shade.
The final mile or so will be through beautiful red rocks down to Oak Creek.
At the creek, you’ll find a deep swimming hole with spots for cliff jumping and plenty of flat rock for lounging. On hot days, the area fills up quickly.
Fees & Hours
- $5 parking fee at the Bell Trailhead
- Main lot plus an overflow lot nearby
- Bring plenty of water … *especially for the hike out, which feels longer at the end of the day.
- Overnight camping isn’t permitted, though enforcement varies.
5. Midgley Bridge
Midgley Bridge is better known for its views than for swimming, but Oak Creek flows directly below it, offering another option for cooling off. The area is more about wading and relaxing than deep swimming.
Location
North end of Sedona along Highway 89A.
Parking is extremely limited, especially during peak travel seasons.
What to Expect
Short but rocky trails lead from the bridge down into Oak Creek Canyon.
The Huckaby Trail drops about half a mile to the creek and connects with Grasshopper Point.
Water levels are generally shallow, with small pools, shaded banks, and smooth rocks ideal for sitting creekside.
Fees & Hours
- Limited roadside parking
- Red Rock Pass required
- $5 daily or $15 weekly
More Arizona Swimming Holes to Explore
People picture Arizona as a total desert, but there are even more beautiful swimming holes to explore:
Havasupai Falls
Mooney Falls, Beaver Falls, and other sites along Havasu Creek are among the most stunning swimming holes in the USA.
Visiting Havasupai Falls requires permits, advance planning, and a long hike, but the turquoise water is unmatched.
Fossil Creek
Located near Camp Verde, Fossil Creek features waterfalls, pools, and lush vegetation. Permits are required from April through September.
Fossil Springs
Reached by a challenging 4-mile hike each way, Fossil Springs rewards visitors with a powerful waterfall and crystal-clear swimming hole. It’s well worth the effort for those prepared for the climb back out.
