Deep Creek Waterfalls

A Hidden Gem in the Great Smoky Mountains National

The Deep Creek area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located just north of downtown Bryson City, NC and is a beautiful area of the park. Deep Creek is home to 3 waterfalls - Juney Whank, Tom Branch, and Indian Creek Falls. All 3 are family friendly and are easy to moderate hikes. This area is very popular for tubing and gets very busy during the warmer months, so get here early. Fall and winter hikes are especially tranquil, as the trails are less busy.

Using the map below, look for the trailhead fo Juney Whank Falls at the parking area. Continue on the trail uphill for .25 miles at an elevation gain of 194 feet - this is the only steep part of this 3-waterfall hike. You will hear the sounds of the waterfall as you approach it. Descend the steps to walk across the bridge in front of Junewhank Falls. After viewing this fall, continue over the bridge as the trail will continue on a downward path (after climbing a few steps). This trail ends at the main Deep Creek Trail. Turn left and continue on the trail - which is an old logging road.

This trail follows Deep Creek up stream. At about 2/10's of a mile, look for 2 benches on the right next to the creek. This is the observation/viewing area for Tom Branch Falls. If you're only going to visit Tom Branch Falls, this is a .03 mile easy hike (or .06 mile round trip). From the parking area, continue past the trailhead to Juney Whank Falls and walk across the parking turn around. Then continue on the trail - which is an old logging road - this is the Deep Creek Trail. This trail follows Deep Creek up stream You'll pass the loop part of the trail on the left that leads back up to Juney Whank Falls, then at about 3/10's of a mile from the parking area, look for 2 benches on the right next to the creek.

To reach Indian Creek Falls, continue walking on the Deep Creek Trail from Tom Branch Falls for .5 miles. You'll travel over a bridge for great photo opportunities of Deep Creek, and the Indian Creek Trail will intersect on the right - just look for the signs. You'll walk under .1 mile and Indian Creek Falls will be indicated with a sign on the left. You'll descend some steps to approach a landing for best viewing the falls.