Deep Creek Tubing

For generations, families have been coming back to Deep Creek to enjoy tubing in its swift, cool mountain waters. From the parking lot at the Deep Creek trailhead, two miles north of Bryson City, you carry your inner tube upstream about a mile into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The put-in is at the convergence of Indian Creek and Deep Creek where the sign says “No tubing beyond this point.”

Described as Nature’s Best Water Ride, the Deep Creek course consists of two sections: (1) The upper “whitewater” section, which flows from Indian Creek through the narrow Deep Creek gorge. This is a wild, bouncy ride that often separates the rider from the tube, especially when the water is swift from spring rains. At the end of the rapids section, there’s a wide, deep swimming hole that provides a relaxing break before getting back on the tube. (2) The lower section, which is wider, easier going and more appropriate for smaller kids, ends at the parking lot. Put-in for this section is at the swimming hole just above the first bridge on the Deep Creek trail.

There are several outfitters offering tube rentals near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance on West Deep Creek Road. Some have changing rooms and showers. You can choose from different types of tubes — with seats and without — which can be rented for less than $5 a day. It’s advisable to wear a bathing suit or shorts and tee shirt and secure shoes. Watches and loose jewelry should be left behind. And eyeglasses should be secured with a head strap. Finally, because Deep Creek is a cool mountain stream, you should bring towels and a change of dry clothes.