Highlight • Waterfall
Tom Branch Falls
Hiking
5.0
(31)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 15, 2022
Hiking
June 1, 2021
Hiking
probably the most popular place for tubing for many, many miles. So if you don't go early expect a lot of kids walking up the trail and floating down the creek.
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Nearby routes
Best routes near Tom Branch Falls
4.6
(18)
123
hikers
8.44km
02:32
260m
270m
The Deep Creek Loop Trail immerses you in the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a delightful journey through lush forests and along the babbling Deep Creek. You'll encounter three distinct waterfalls: the easily accessible Tom Branch Falls, the unique Indian Creek Falls, and the multi-tiered Juney Whank Falls, each providing a picturesque stop. The terrain varies from wide, flat paths to a significant uphill climb towards Sunkota Ridge, making it a dynamic experience for those who enjoy varied landscapes.
This moderate 5.2-mile (8.4 km) loop, with 867 feet (264 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 31 minutes to complete. The Deep Creek Loop Trail is popular, so plan to arrive early to secure parking, especially during peak seasons. Spring and fall are particularly scenic, with wildflowers or vibrant foliage, offering the best season to hike Deep Creek Loop Trail, but be prepared for crowds.
What makes this trail notable is its combination of multiple waterfalls and historical significance; it was one of the first constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Beyond hiking, the Deep Creek area is also known for tubing in summer, and some sections are open to biking, a rare allowance in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's a fantastic option for a rewarding half-day adventure.
1.51km
00:26
50m
10m
The Deep Creek Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through the Great Smoky Mountains, perfect for a quick escape into nature. This 0.9-mile (1.5 km) hike features a gentle 155 feet (47 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 25 minutes to complete. You'll follow the tranquil Deep Creek, enjoying the sounds of the water and passing by the picturesque Tom Branch Falls, an 80-foot cascade that's easily accessible and a real highlight.
Located just outside Bryson City, North Carolina, the trailhead for Deep Creek Trail is easy to find, though parking can fill up quickly during busy times, so plan to arrive early. Spring is an excellent time to visit for vibrant wildflower displays, while summer brings the added activity of inner tubers enjoying the creek. The area is also popular for picnicking and fishing, making it a versatile spot for outdoor enjoyment.
This trail is notable for its accessibility to multiple waterfalls, including Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls, making it a highly rewarding experience for minimal effort. Beyond the cascades, the route winds through lush forests, rich with rhododendron and mountain laurel, offering opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone seeking a peaceful, scenic walk without the challenge of a strenuous climb.
4.7
(20)
163
hikers
4.02km
01:11
110m
120m
The Deep Creek Waterfalls Loop is an easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) hiking trail that packs a punch, leading you through a lush forest alongside Deep Creek to three distinct waterfalls. With only 374 feet (114 metres) of elevation gain, this loop takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick, scenic outing. You'll encounter the easily viewed Tom Branch Falls, the quieter Indian Creek Falls, and the impressive, multi-tiered Juney Whank Falls, each offering a unique perspective on the park's natural beauty.
Planning your visit is straightforward, but be aware that a parking tag is required for any vehicle staying over 15 minutes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Pets are not permitted on this trail, so leave your furry friends at home. While popular in warmer months for tubing, the trail truly shines in spring with wildflowers and in autumn with vibrant fall colors, offering a family-friendly experience year-round.
What makes this trail truly stand out is the rare opportunity to see three beautiful waterfalls within a single, relatively short hike. Historically, the Deep Creek Trail was one of the first constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Beyond hiking, the Deep Creek area is also a hub for outdoor activities, with popular tubing spots and even sections of the trail open to bicycles, adding to its appeal as a versatile destination.
Details
Informations
Elevation 540 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 17 October
13°C
2°C
16 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December