If you haven’t been to the Cherokee side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park you’ll find more there than elk! Drive over for a visit, and hit the trails to find some gorgeous waterfalls in the area! A favorite trail in the area is Indian Creek Falls Trail. This is a short trail, with a lot to see!
| Round Trip Length | 1.9 Miles |
| Elevation Gain | 150 Feet |
| Trail Highlights | Waterfalls, Wildflowers |
Trailhead
The trail for Indian Creek begins from the Deep Creek Trailhead. This is located just north of Bryson City, North Carolina. In Cherokee drive 10 miles south to Everett Street in Bryson City. Then turn right onto Depot Street. Follow it until you come to Ramseur Street. Make a right turn here onto Deep Creek Road. Follow it to the national park entrance, and a half mile to the parking area of the Deep Creek Trailhead.
Trail Description
As mentioned earlier, the trail for Indian Creek Falls starts at the Deep Creek Trailhead. The trail begins as a well-worn, wide path. The roundtrip length is 1.9 miles. Rewards come quickly and often on this hike! At just three-tenths of a mile in you will reach Toms Branch Falls. This is a beautiful 60 foot tall waterfall!
You’ll notice during the spring and summer months that many wildflowers can be found along this trail. Moreover, this trail is typically a very lush, green hike to enjoy. To reach Indian Creek Falls continue on past Toms Branch Falls. Turn right and continue one-tenth of a mile. Here a smaller spur trail will appear to the left. Follow this trail to reach Indian Creek Falls.
Indian Creek Falls is 25 feet tall! You may notice that waterfall is a little different than typically waterfalls. It actually flows down the rocks and looks more like a big water slide! This unique waterfall is definitely worth the short hike up the Indian Creek Falls Trail!
Facts About the Trail
– You get to see two waterfalls for the price of one trail! You’ll see Toms Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls.
– Indian Creek Falls is one of the first trails constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the newly legislated national park.
– Bicycles are permitted on this section of the trail.
– You can actually keep going on this trail! By continuing it means you will be hiking the Deep Creek Loop which adds another 2.4 miles to your trip.
Two waterfalls for the price of one short trail! You can’t really go wrong with a hike up the Indian Creek Falls Trail! Like any trail in the national park make sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, and bring water along. If you love to see waterfalls, lace up your shoes and check 6 other awesome waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains to see!
