August 21, 2023
On a hot summer’s day in Sedona, a glistening swimming pool is the perfect paradise. Yet for those who relish the thought of wild swimming, there’s nothing quite like the fresh, pure water of a natural swimming hole. Luckily for guests of The Arabella, we are a perfectly positioned hotel near Sedona’s best swimming holes, where you can refresh in cool water while surrounded by the stunning red rock scenery for which our region is so beloved.
Spectacular Swimming Holes in Sedona
These are some of our favorite natural swimming holes near our hotel in Sedona, AZ, sure to beat air conditioning any day of the week.
The Crack at Wet Beaver Creek
Approximately a 35-minute drive from Sedona, and about a 7-mile hike, this secluded swimming hole is worth the effort to get there. It’s one of the most crystal-clear, picturesque wild-swimming spots you’ll find. It’s less crowded than others and, if you’re a cliff-jumping fan, the red rocks that frame the hole are ideal for taking the plunge.
Crescent Moon Ranch/Red Rock Crossing
For an option closer to Sedona, try this collection of swimming holes about a 15-minute drive from town and a .5-mile hike. Each swimming area (most of which are dog-friendly) has its own character, but all have fantastic views of Cathedral Rock. Bathe in the unfiltered sunlight of broad, red-rock beaches, or slip away to shadier, hidden coves. There are bathrooms and picnic areas at the parking areas.
Bootlegger
Also a 15-minute drive from Sedona, the Bootlegger swimming hole requires practically no hiking to access it. Surprisingly, given how easy it is to get to, it’s smaller and relatively unknown. This is a great choice for families and low-key swimming, with shallow water at both ends of the perfectly circular hole.
Midgley Bridge
Don’t miss this stunner – just a 5-minute drive from Sedona and an easy .6-mile hike. There are wide red rock beaches to hang out on, partially submerged rocks for jumping off and lounging on, and a decidedly lively vibe due to its proximity to town.
Slide Rock
Considered the crown jewel of Sedona’s swimming holes, Slide Rock is a 15-minute drive from town and a .3-mile hike. It’s located inside Slide Rock State Park (day-use fee charged). There are several natural pools along the .5-mile stretch of Oak Creek that lies within the park, but the most famous is the 80-foot-long natural waterslide. Slip down the slide, which ranges from two to four feet across, right into a cool creek below.
Cooling Off at The Arabella
Still love a good pool and hot tub? The Arabella has that, too! After hiking out to one of the natural swimming holes or a day hike in Red Rock Country, soak your muscles in one of the hotel’s two hot tubs, or take an evening swim in one of two swimming pools. The larger Courtyard pool is 9 feet deep, so you can even dive to your heart’s content. In fact, the story has it that Elvis wanted a diving pool available when he visited to film a movie – the pool was built at his request!