Deep Creek Waterfalls
Discover three stunning waterfalls on a scenic loop hike, or cool off with a refreshing tubing adventure in this popular Great Smoky Mountains gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking
Deep Creek Waterfalls
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover three stunning waterfalls on a scenic loop hike, or cool off with a refreshing tubing adventure in this popular Great Smoky Mountains gem.
"A great hiking area with a loop that touches 3 different waterfalls! It was really great!"
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A parking pass is required at the trailhead. Machines are available near the bathrooms. Arrive early for the best chance at a spot!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
While some trails are easy, watch your step. Sturdy footwear is recommended for enjoying the scenery safely.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tom Branch Falls
Deep Creek Trail
A picturesque cascade easily accessible from the main trail, perfect for a quick photo op.
Indian Creek Falls
Indian Creek Trail
This 25-foot drop is a classic waterfall view, a must-see on the Deep Creek loop.
Juney Whank Falls
Juney Whank Trail
A dramatic, multi-tiered beauty offering a more rugged and impressive waterfall experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Parking
Tubing vs. Hiking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A parking pass is required at the trailhead. Machines are available near the bathrooms. Arrive early for the best chance at a spot!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
While some trails are easy, watch your step. Sturdy footwear is recommended for enjoying the scenery safely.
💧 Consider Tubing
Deep Creek is famous for tubing! Rent tubes nearby for a fun way to cool off and experience the creek.
📸 Three Waterfalls in One
The Deep Creek Waterfall Loop offers three distinct falls in about 3 miles. A great value for hikers!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Pass Needed
A parking pass is required at the trailhead. Machines are available near the bathrooms. Arrive early for the best chance at a spot!
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
While some trails are easy, watch your step. Sturdy footwear is recommended for enjoying the scenery safely.
💧 Consider Tubing
Deep Creek is famous for tubing! Rent tubes nearby for a fun way to cool off and experience the creek.
📸 Three Waterfalls in One
The Deep Creek Waterfall Loop offers three distinct falls in about 3 miles. A great value for hikers!
🧺 Picnic Spots Galore
Plenty of picnic areas with tables are available, making it a great spot for a family outing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Deep Creek for its beautiful waterfalls and the enjoyable hiking loop. The opportunity for tubing adds a fun, refreshing element, making it a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. While parking can be challenging due to its popularity, the natural beauty and diverse activities make it a highly recommended destination.
"What a great hiking area with a loop that touches 3 different waterfalls! We spent around 3 hours walking around in this area and I have to say that despite being an easy hike it was really great!
Walking in the wood is so relaxing and we just passed a couple of other people hiking in the area. It was extrelemy quiet and lovely.
The waterfall are not huge but they are very different from each other making the hike even more worth it. The area is apparently also popular for tubing and we met many people around the parking lot area doing so even on a Thursday.
This is a great area I would recommend visiting if you are travelling around here!"
Alessandro Balocco
"What a pretty place to enjoy the outdoors, trail has easy signage and though you definitely need to watch your step it's not a bad hike.. beautiful scenery just go early to get parking."
TF Farrow
"An AWESOME DAY! This is a very busy trailhead. Parking is a premium and you must purchase a parking pass. It’s busy with families who are picnicking and tubing on Deep Creek. The trails didn’t seem as busy. Lonesome Pine Overlook is a strenuous 8ish Mile hike (out and back). The overlook is BEAUTIFUL!"
darryl clark
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Deep Creek is located just minutes from downtown Bryson City. Follow signs for Deep Creek within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The main trailhead and parking area are well-marked.
Public transportation options are limited in this area. Driving your own vehicle or a rental car is the most common and convenient way to reach Deep Creek.
The main loop trail is generally well-maintained and signed. For specific waterfall access, follow the trail markers. Maps are often available at the trailhead or visitor centers.
Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls are accessible for some individuals using wheelchairs, as the trails are mostly level. Juney Whank Falls has steeper access points.
Yes, Deep Creek is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Standard park entrance fees may apply, though the immediate trailhead area requires a separate parking pass.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a parking pass is required for the trailhead parking area at Deep Creek. You can purchase these from machines located near the bathrooms.
Deep Creek is part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is generally open year-round. However, facilities like restrooms and parking areas are best accessed during daylight hours.
While the Great Smoky Mountains National Park itself does not have an entrance fee, a parking pass is required for the Deep Creek trailhead.
Tubing rental companies are located near the Deep Creek area. It's advisable to check their specific policies on advance bookings, especially during peak season.
Parking pass costs can vary. It's best to check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or look for signage at the trailhead for the most current pricing.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Deep Creek Waterfall Loop is approximately 4.6 miles and can take 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at each waterfall.
Deep Creek is very popular for tubing down the creek. There are also picnic areas, fishing opportunities, and scenic drives nearby.
Yes, restrooms are available at the main Deep Creek trailhead, which is also where you can purchase parking passes.
The loop trail to the three waterfalls is moderately strenuous, with some elevation gain. Tom Branch and Indian Creek Falls are easier to access than Juney Whank Falls.
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera. If tubing, bring a swimsuit and towel.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within the Deep Creek area. However, Bryson City offers a variety of dining options just a short drive away.
Absolutely! Deep Creek has designated picnic areas with tables, making it a perfect spot for a packed lunch.
You'll find grocery stores and restaurants in the nearby town of Bryson City. It's recommended to pack snacks and drinks for your visit to Deep Creek.
Typically, there are no food vendors at the Deep Creek trailhead. It's best to come prepared with your own food and beverages.
Bryson City offers a range of dining, from casual cafes and pizza places to Southern cuisine and breweries.
📸 📸 Photography
Each of the three waterfalls – Tom Branch, Indian Creek, and Juney Whank – offers unique photographic opportunities. The trails themselves also provide scenic forest backdrops.
Yes, the trails are designed to offer good views of the waterfalls. For Juney Whank Falls, consider exploring both access points for different perspectives.
Morning light can be beautiful, especially if you want to avoid harsh midday sun. However, the waterfalls are scenic throughout the day.
Drone usage is restricted in National Parks. Check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
The trails lead directly to the base of the waterfalls, providing excellent vantage points. Some areas might offer slightly elevated views of the cascades.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tubing is a huge hit with kids during the summer. Renting tubes and floating down Deep Creek provides hours of entertainment. The picnic areas are also perfect for family lunches amidst nature. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, water, and sunscreen for a comfortable day out.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Nature Lovers
Consider visiting on a weekday morning to experience the trails with fewer people, allowing for a more immersive nature experience. The diverse scenery, from the flowing water to the towering trees, makes it a photographer's and nature enthusiast's dream.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of paid attractions, you get to enjoy stunning natural scenery and multiple waterfalls for the cost of a parking pass and perhaps a tube rental if you choose. It's a high-value experience for those looking to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Deep Creek Waterfall Loop
The loop typically connects Tom Branch Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Juney Whank Falls. Each waterfall has its own unique charm. Tom Branch Falls is a serene cascade right along the main trail, while Indian Creek Falls is a classic 25-foot drop. Juney Whank Falls is often considered the most dramatic, featuring a multi-tiered descent. The trail provides opportunities to cross charming bridges and enjoy the sounds of the flowing water.
While the loop is popular, the trails themselves tend to be less crowded than the parking area, especially on weekdays. Visitors often spend 2-3 hours completing the loop, allowing time to pause, take photos, and simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere. It's a great option for those looking for a solid introduction to the park's waterfall scenery.
Tubing on Deep Creek
Tubing is a significant draw, and the parking area can become very busy, especially on hot summer days. Many visitors come specifically for this activity, creating a lively atmosphere around the creek. It's a quintessential Deep Creek experience that many travelers rave about.
If tubing is your primary interest, plan your visit accordingly. Arrive early to secure parking and rent your tubes. Remember to bring a swimsuit, towel, and waterproof protection for your phone if you plan to take it with you on the water.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit