Arizona in summer has a way of testing your limits. The red rocks shimmer in the heat, the air feels heavy, and just when you think you’ve had enough, there’s a cold creek winding its way through the canyon.
Sedona’s swimming holes are the natural answer to the desert’s intensity, and they have been drawing both locals and travelers for decades. So, are they worth it? The short answer is yes – if you go prepared for crowds, weather quirks, and a few safety rules.
What makes them special is the combination of crisp creek water, sandstone backdrops, and the way you can pair a swim with a picnic or a short hike.
Below, you’ll find a full guide to the main spots, what to expect when you get there, how much you’ll pay, and how to keep your day safe and fun.
Quick Take
- Best for thrills: Slide Rock State Park’s natural waterslide.
- Best for a classic “swimming hole” feel: Grasshopper Point on Oak Creek.
- Best for a quieter, scenic swim after a hike: The Crack on Wet Beaver Creek along Bell Trail.
- Best for wading with iconic Cathedral Rock views: Crescent Moon Picnic Site at Red Rock Crossing.
Expect fees, first-come parking, no lifeguards, slippery sandstone, and potential monsoon hazards in late summer.
Glass is banned within 300 feet of Oak Creek, and water quality can change quickly after storms.
The Major Swimming Holes
Slide Rock State Park
This is Sedona’s most famous swim spot, and for good reason. Oak Creek runs through a smooth, 80-foot sandstone chute that works as a natural slide.
You’ll see kids squealing as they shoot down into chilly pools and plenty of adults giving it a try, too. Off to the sides, the creek forms shallow pockets where you can wade, lounge, or dip your feet.
Hours and Fees
It’s a state park, which means entry is regulated. Fees are charged per vehicle and rise during the summer.
Reservations are not offered, so it’s first-come, first-served. Hours shift seasonally, with the last entry typically an hour before closing.
Safety Notes
There’s no lifeguard. The sandstone is slick, so water shoes help. Pets are restricted from the main swim area during peak season.
Water Quality
Slide Rock has a history of E. coli monitoring, with improvements in recent years due to watershed projects.
Conditions can change quickly after storms, so always check posted advisories.
Who it Suits
Families and groups of friends looking for an easy, photogenic stop with a short walk from the car. Be ready for summer pricing and big crowds.
Grasshopper Point Swimming and Picnic Area
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Grasshopper Point offers what most people picture when they think “swimming hole.”
Beneath red cliffs, the creek forms deep pools perfect for a real swim, with rock shelves for sunbathing and shaded picnic areas nearby. Access is through short, worn paths that lead down to the water.
Hours, Fees, Passes
It’s managed as a concession site under Coconino National Forest. You’ll either need a Coconino Pass or pay the posted day-use fee.
The popular Red Rock Pass and America the Beautiful pass don’t apply here.
Safety Нotes
No camping, no fires, and no pets allowed. Cliff jumping is discouraged because of unpredictable depths and hidden rocks. No lifeguards are present.
Who it Suits
Anyone who wants the “classic creek pool” experience, whether you’re planning to swim laps or spread out with a picnic for the afternoon.
The Crack on Wet Beaver Creek (via Bell Trail)
Ask a Sedona local where to cool off, and chances are they’ll mention The Crack. It’s not marked on official maps, but the name has stuck.
Picture a deep, emerald pool surrounded by smooth red benches of rock, tucked away in Wet Beaver Wilderness. The vibe is relaxed, less busy than Oak Creek’s big-name spots, and worth the hike in.
How to Access
Park at the Beaver Creek Day Use or the Bell Trailhead. From there, follow Bell Trail for a few miles. The hike is exposed and hot in summer, so carry water and sun protection.
A day-use fee or Coconino Pass applies at Beaver Creek.
Who it Suits
Hikers who want to earn their swim and don’t mind a longer walk for a quieter setting.
Crescent Moon Picnic Site at Red Rock Crossing
If you’ve seen photos of Cathedral Rock reflecting perfectly in creek water, they were probably taken here. Crescent Moon is more about wading than swimming.
The banks are gentle, kid-friendly, and dotted with ramadas, lawns, and shaded picnic tables.
Fees and Passes
Another Forest Service concession site, it accepts the Coconino Pass or you can pay the posted day-use fee.
Arrive early on weekends and holidays – the lot fills fast.
Who it Suits
Families with small kids, photographers, or anyone who wants a mellow creek day without a long hike.
West Fork of Oak Creek (Call of the Canyon Day-Use)
This is the most popular trail in Sedona for good reason. You walk beneath towering canyon walls, across a shaded creek, and through groves of maple and fir.
Swimming isn’t the highlight here – it’s more about ankle-to-knee-deep wading. Still, on a hot day, the cold water feels great.
Fees and Passes
Parking requires either a Coconino Pass or a day-use fee. The lot fills early, often by mid-morning.
Who it Suits
Families with young hikers, photographers, and anyone who wants more shade than you’ll find at Slide Rock or Grasshopper.
What Visiting Is Really Like
If you go on a summer weekend, expect competition for parking. Slide Rock fills quickly, and Grasshopper Point or Crescent Moon can close their gates once lots are full.
To avoid the rush, aim to arrive right at opening or go later in the afternoon. Weekdays, spring, and fall are easier. The water is colder outside summer, but the trade-off is fewer people and calmer conditions.
Parking and Passes
Here’s a quick reference:
- Slide Rock: State park fees apply; no federal or Red Rock passes accepted.
- Grasshopper, Crescent Moon, Beaver Creek, West Fork: Forest Service concession sites. They accept the Coconino Pass or a posted day-use fee. The Red Rock Pass and America the Beautiful pass do not substitute at these specific sites.
Safety First
Flash Floods
Northern Arizona’s monsoon season runs from mid-June through late September. Creeks can rise fast, even when storms are miles away.
Muddy water, sudden surges, or the sound of thunder upstream are signs to leave immediately. Always check the weather before heading out.
No Lifeguards, Slippery Rocks
None of Sedona’s swimming holes has lifeguards. The sandstone is slick, especially where algae grows. Sudden depth changes are common. Water shoes help with traction.
Cliff Jumping
At Grasshopper Point, cliff jumping is discouraged. Depth varies, and hidden rocks make it risky. If you enter the water, do so feet first after checking conditions.
Glass Ban and Etiquette
Glass containers are banned within 300 feet of Oak Creek. Broken glass injuries are a serious problem, so pack plastic or metal instead.
Also, carry trash out with you, use the provided restrooms, and keep noise low to respect wildlife and other visitors.
Water Quality Concerns
- E. coli: Levels can rise after heavy use or storms. Avoid swallowing water and wait 24-48 hours after rain before swimming.
- Naegleria fowleri: Rare but deadly amoeba found in warm freshwater. The CDC notes risk is extremely low, but rises in shallow, warm water. Keeping your head above water or using nose clips reduces exposure.
Costs and Passes at a Glance
| Site | Managing Agency | Pass Honored | Typical Fee |
| Slide Rock State Park | Arizona State Parks | None | Per vehicle; higher in summer |
| Grasshopper Point | Coconino NF concession | Coconino Pass | Posted day-use fee |
| Crescent Moon Picnic Site | Coconino NF concession | Coconino Pass | Posted day-use fee |
| Beaver Creek Day Use | Coconino NF concession | Coconino Pass | Posted day-use fee |
| Call of the Canyon, West Fork | Coconino NF concession | Coconino Pass | Posted day-use fee |
When to Go
- Spring and fall: Cooler temps, lighter crowds.
- Summer: Best for swimming, but aim for mornings or late afternoons. Lots fill by mid-day.
- Monsoon season: Be extra cautious. Leave at the first sign of storms.
What to Bring
- Footwear with grip for slippery sandstone.
- Plenty of water, snacks, and sun protection.
- A dry bag for phones and keys.
- Nose clips if you plan to submerge.
- Hand sanitizer for after swimming.
Etiquette That Makes a Big Difference
- Pack out all trash, including food scraps.
- Use restrooms, not the creek.
- Avoid soaps, shampoos, or anything that contaminates the water.
- Keep pets out of restricted areas.
- Follow posted rules and respect closures.
Final Words
@mindyonthemove The BEST swimming hole in Sedona, Arizona! It’s truly a slice of paradise — crystal-clear waters, a natural stone diving board and a stunning red rock canyon setting! It’s the perfect, must-visit desert oasis! 😍🏜️💦 🥾 To reach the swimming hole, you’ll hike the Bell Trail – 7 miles, round-trip, and rated moderate. The swimming hole is called “The Crack” in Wet Beaver Wildnerss (no, seriously.. that’s its name! lol) 🚘 The trailhead is technically about 30 mins from the town of Sedona but so sooo worth it! ⛔️Remember to practice ALL the Leave No Trace principles! Pack out ALL your trash / waste! Come prepared (lots of water, sunscreen .. the works)! Respecting all wildlife and other hikers and follow all rules and regulations! ❓ Would you take the plunge off that natural stone diving board? 📌 Don’t forget to save for your Sedona bucket list and share with your best adventure pals! #SedonaArizona #SwimmingHole #SedonaHiking #DesertOasis #ArizonaAdventures #explorearizona ♬ original sound – mindyonthemove
Sedona’s swimming holes are absolutely worth the stop if you know what you’re getting into.
Slide Rock is lively and iconic, Grasshopper offers the classic creek pool, The Crack rewards hikers with a quieter spot, Crescent Moon gives you family-friendly wading with picture-perfect Cathedral Rock views, and West Fork is ideal for shaded creek walks.
Go early, pack smart, keep safety in mind, and you’ll leave refreshed and grateful for the way Sedona’s creeks cool down the desert heat.