Sliding Rock

This natural granite water slide offers one of North Carolina's most unique waterfall experiences, where thousands of years of flowing water have carved and polished a smooth 60-foot chute through solid bedrock. The powerful mountain stream creates nature's perfect slide, ending in an 8-foot-deep pool that provides a thrilling and refreshing plunge into surprisingly cold water year-round.

The short paved trail from the large parking area makes this attraction easily accessible for most visitors, though the final approach to the sliding area involves navigating rocky terrain. Professional lifeguards staff the site during peak summer months, and complete facilities including restrooms and picnic tables serve the thousands of annual visitors. The granite surfaces remain extremely slippery even when dry.

Arrive before 10 AM on weekdays to secure parking and avoid massive summer crowds that can create hour-long waits for sliding. Water shoes are essential for grip on wet granite, and the water temperature rarely exceeds 60°F even in July. Spring and early fall offer the best balance of adequate water flow and manageable crowds.