A Guide to Deep Creek Loop Trail
There is so much to do in the Bryson City area. Rafting, fishing, tubing and hiking are just a few of the adventurous activities. While in Bryson City we wanted to go on a hike we could take our kids on and that had several sites to see. Deep Creek Loop Trail definitely met those expectations. It is a 4.6 mile loop trail that features 3 waterfalls staggered throughout the hike. There is around 580 ft of elevation gain. We actually did a modified version of this trail to only see the 3 waterfalls. We clocked our hike at 2.2 miles.
To get to Deep Creek Loop Trail, take Tom Branch Road towards Deep Creek Campground. The road winds through forrest and the beautiful country side. It narrows at certain points where only one vehicle could pass at a time. For a brief minute we thought we were lost. We kept going and eventually found the trail head. There will be a parking lot and signs showing where the trail begins.
The trail begins by taking you down a wide path to Tom Branch Falls. Steps line the river where you can take a seat and admire the water trickling down. We were surprised how short the walk was from the parking lot to the falls. This would be a good one for someone who cannot walk far or for young kids.
From here the hike to Indian Creek Falls is around 0.7 miles. There are plenty of signs, but to get to the falls take a right when the trail splits. The trail will head up hill and there will be stairs to the left. The falls are visible from the top of the stairs. Indian Creek Falls was beautiful. There were small pools starting at the base of the falls which staggered down the river. It looked like a fun spot to stop and take a dip.
To hike the loop, continue right uphill. To do the modified version, head back downhill and hike towards Deep Creek Horse Trail. We ended up hiking the horse trail to Juney Whank Falls. The milage was around 1.2 miles. This falls was pretty crowded, but still beautiful. Be sure to look for Salamanders! We saw three hanging out on and around the falls.
From Juney Whank Falls it is a short hike down to the parking lot. If you are able to we recommend tubing after your hike! This is a great spot to get in the water to cool off and float down the river.
Have you hiked Deep Creek Loop? What was your experience? Leave a comment below!
