Near Deep Creek to Indian Creek Trail Loop
Tunnel
Near Deep Creek to Indian Creek Trail Loop
Deep Creek, NC
Near Deep Creek to Indian Creek Trail Loop
Smoky Mountains
Near Deep Creek to Indian Creek Trail Loop
White-Tailed Deer
Near Deep Creek to Indian Creek Trail Loop
Toms Branch Falls

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Hike Route

Deep Creek to Indian Creek Trail Loop

4.2 (6 Ratings)
This loop takes you along the scenic Deep Creek Trail and Indian Creek Trails.
15
mi
Distance
3,206
ft
Gain
strenuous
Difficulty
River/CreekSwimmingViewsWaterfall

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
15.05mi
Distance
3,206ft
Elevation Gain
3,208ft
Elevation Loss
40%
Max Grade
3,394ft
High Point
1,813ft
Low Point
Path Type
Point to Point
Description
You start from the the Deep Creek Parking Lot and head towards Site 58. Immediately, you'll see a waterfall where you can take some nice pictures. The first day to Sites 59-57 follows relatively easy terrain. There are some moderate hills, but most people should be able to make it to their site in 4-6 hours. Once you reach your site, set your tent and hang your bags. Enjoy!The second day has the hardest part of the route. Head towards Site 57. Once there, turn right, and begin your ascent. This climb took my group about 1.5 hours at a fast pace. Others said it took them as long as 5 hours. It is very steep here, so take your time. Once you reach the summit, there will be signs pointing you towards Indian Creek Trail. Take a photo here and enjoy having completed the difficult climb. Take your time as you go about 1.5 miles downhill until you reach Site 46. You'll know you are close when you see a set of two small bridges in quick succession. Site 46 is slightly hidden up through some brush.The last day is all downhill or flat ground. You'll cross over several bridges and eventually reach Indian Creek. You cannot miss it. This creek is much larger than any you have seen yet. If you plan to fish the creek, be sure to wake early to beat the tubers to the water. Follow the signs to return to the Deep Creek Parking Lot.
History & Background
Horace Kephart has a memorial located on the stretch between Sites 58-57. It is an unmarked trail with a millstone at the end. There is a plaque which has a short description about him. He is considered a key founder of the park.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
brad w