Big Marys Creek Slide

Big Marys Creek Slide sits in Virginia. Swimmers come for a natural day on the water without resort amenities.

The creek has spent centuries carving a smooth, sinuous chute through the bedrock, and the result is a fully functional natural water slide that dumps swimmers into a deep, cold pool below. There are no ticket booths, no lifeguards, no snack bars. Just you, the forest, and the sound of rushing water echoing off the hillside. The trail in demands a little effort, winding steeply through second-growth hardwood forest that filters the summer sun into shifting green light. In spring, wildflowers crowd the path and the creek runs high and fast, its energy almost electric. By June and July, the canopy closes overhead and the air near the water stays noticeably cooler than the surrounding woods. A relief on hot Virginia afternoons. Come autumn, the hillsides ignite in amber and crimson, making the hike to the slide as much of a reward as the destination itself.

Wildlife is a constant companion here; listen for the territorial call of wood thrushes and watch the creek edges for the dart of crayfish across the stones. You position yourself at the top, the creek tugging at you with surprising insistence, and then you're moving. Fast, cold, and laughing. Before splashing into the . The pool is deep enough for a comfortable landing and wide enough to float and recover before your companions come barreling down behind you. Clarity is excellent; you can watch the rocky bottom shift beneath you as you swim. There are no facilities of any kind on site, so come prepared with everything you need. Planning Your Visit Big Mary's Creek Slide is an unofficial site, which means it operates without formal management or posted rules. Treat it with the care you'd want to find it in.

Treat Big Marys Creek Slide as a wild swim: no lifeguard, variable depth, and rules that can change by season.

Big Marys Creek Slide works well as a day trip from Staunton or Steele'S Tavern. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Arnold Valley Pool or browse more Virginia other spots in our directory. For the full list in Virginia, see our state directory.

Access is via unsigned Forest Road 104. The final descent to the slide is a steep, unmaintained path that can be slippery. Parking is in a wide gravel pull-off. No fees are required, but this is not a public park with services.

Situated near Staunton, birthplace of Woodrow Wilson, and surrounded by Appalachian cultural history, Big Mary’s Creek Slide offers a glimpse into Virginia’s rich heritage.

Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the delicate ecosystem. Avoid littering and minimize impact on wildlife and plant life.