Slide Rock State Park changes vehicle policy, banning lineups when lot is full

PHOENIX – If you’re planning a visit to Slide Rock State Park, be aware of new traffic restrictions on vehicles waiting to get in.

Starting May 1, cars will no longer be allowed to line up in the US 89A right-turn lane and driveway to the park if the parking lot is full.

Sam Axford, Slide Rock State Park manager, said vehicle overflow at the popular recreation site was creating safety issues for rangers and drivers.

Arizona State Parks and Trails developed the new policy in collaboration with the Arizona Department of Transportation to address traffic backups, which at times blocked staff members from entering the park.

“This change means that people will need to arrive at opening time and also have a backup plan in case the parking lot is full,” Axford said in a press release. “The popularity of the park has necessitated these changes, and we hope this will make it easier for people to plan and enjoy a day at Slide Rock State Park.”

What is Slide Rock State Park?

Slide Rock State Park is known for its natural water slide and is considered one of the nation’s best swimming holes. The recreation site can be found about 7 miles north of Sedona in Oak Creek Canyon, on the west side of US 89A.

It opens daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for most of the year. The entrance fee during the peak May-September visitor season is $30 per vehicle for up to four people. It’s $5 more for each additional person. Kids 6 and under are free.

The parking lot has only 156 spaces and quickly fills during the warm spring and summer months.

What to expect under new Slide Rock State Park rules?

Under the previous rules for when the lot was full, vehicles were allowed to line up and enter on a one-out, one-in basis.

But once the new rules go into effect, the lot will close after it fills up and only reopen when there are enough spaces for a new wave of vehicles. The lot could remain closed for hours, or even all day, depending on how busy it is.

Traffic cones will be set up to prevent vehicle lineups, while rangers and signage will provide information about the new policy.

There is no way to bypass the entry restrictions. Slide Rock State Park is open only to visitors who enter the site in vehicles. Drop-offs, walk-ins and bicycles are not permitted.

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