
Just a short ways outside of Brevard is Sliding Rock, a favorite swimming hole for locals and people who want to make the hour drive up from Asheville and 2 and a half hour drive from Charlotte. While that may seem like a far drive to make, we think that Sliding Rock is worth the drive.
Sliding Rock is a waterfall that descends down a 60-foot natural slide into an 8-foot-deep pool that’s used as a spot to cool down in the warmer months. The water courses down the flat, wide rock that serves as a natural slide, perfect for adults and kids alike. 11,000 gallons of water flow continuously down the rock, which means you can slide again and again all afternoon long.
Tickets cost $4, cards are accepted, and while Sliding Rock may technically be open year round, there are only available restroom and life guard staff during April to beginning of October (weekends only during mid to late October).
The great thing about visiting Sliding Rock is the fact that it’s tucked away within Pisgah National Forest where there are a few other highly visited landscapes. Looking Glass Falls are one such spot, a beautiful tall-standing waterfall that’s amazing to see and a refreshing place to take a dip, that’s just a five minute walk from the Sliding Rock trail. Take a drive 8 minutes up to Cradle of Forestry, an American Heritage Site and an ode to the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Once you’re done with your adventure in Pisgah National Forest, you can head over to Bervard to stay in a cozy cabin away from the hustle and bustle of it all.