Located inside Smoky Mountain National Park, beautiful Deep Creek runs through the park for 15 miles until it joins the Tuckasegee River, tumbling over three waterfalls along the way. From tubing down the creek in the summer months to hiking and camping, there are fun things to do for everyone at Deep Creek that will highlight your Bryson City vacation. Here’s a quick rundown.
Where Is Deep Creek?
Deep Creek is easily accessible from downtown Bryson City, North Carolina. It empties into the Tuckasegee River right in the middle of downtown Bryson City. Nearby Nantahala Brewing creates craft beer using fresh local hops, whole grains, and sparking clean Smoky Mountain water from the nearby watershed that includes Deep Creek. At Nantahala Brewing, you will also find delicious food ranging from burgers to chicken wings and tenders. On an interesting note, Deep Creek was one of the first recreation areas constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Parking
When you’re ready to hit the trails and explore Deep Creek, the easiest place to park is at the Deep Creek trailhead parking lot near the end of Deep Creek Road in the Deep Creek Campground. Additional parking areas are available closer to the entrance of the campground but are farther away from the trailheads. A daily parking pass is available for $5, a weekly pass for $15, or an annual pass for $40. Deep Creek Campground offers 92 campsites that can accommodate tent or RV campers. Bathrooms and fresh running water are readily available. The campground is open 24 hours per day from early April through October.
The Falls
Deep Creek tumbles over three different waterfalls as it winds its way down the mountain toward Bryson City. One of the best ways to view the falls is by hiking the trails along the creek.
Two different trails are recommended: a 2.4-mile long hike and a 5-mile long loop hike called the Deep Creek-Indian Creek Loop. While bicycles are allowed, dogs and other animals are not permitted on the trail, even on the leash.
The following instructions describe the 2.4-mile-long hike. From the parking area near the end of Deep Creek Road, it’s a quick quarter-mile walk to the 80-foot-tall dramatic Toms Branch Falls. After viewing Toms Branch Falls, walk another one-third of a mile and find the 45-foot tall cascade called Indian Creek Falls, which is located slightly off the main trail. From Indian Creek Falls, you can either backtrack for the 2.4-mile hike along Deep Creek or you can continue on this trail for the 5-mile loop.
If you choose to backtrack onto the Deep Creek Trail, you’ll quickly make a right-hand turn onto the Horse Trail to find the picturesque Juney Whank Falls. Rushing down a 90-foot rocky slope, Juney Whanek Falls is directly in front of a wooden bridge and offers great photo opportunities. You can also easily reach Juney Whank Falls from the parking lot if you don’t want to hike the entire 2.4 miles. Be aware that it’s a short but steep uphill climb from the parking lot with 194 feet of elevation gain. If you’re looking to do more than hit the trail during your vacation, browse our Bryson City local area guide, filled with activities and adventures for everyone!
Plan Your Next Visit!
Are you ready to discover the beauty of Deep Creek during your next family vacation? Browse our selection of cabin rentals today and find the perfect escape!
Why Stay With Stonewood
When you and your family or friends are ready to get away from it all, Stonewood Cabins offers you the perfect Bryson City cabin rental. Combine stunning outdoor scenery and spectacular views with all of the modern amenities like a fully stocked kitchen, magnificent fireplaces, a smart TV and high-speed Internet, comfortable beds, hot tubs, and more. You can choose from one to four plus bedroom rentals that are nestled in the mountain woods or downtown in Bryson City for your convenience. Book your stay today!
