Juney Whank Falls

Directions to Trailhead: Same as for Tom Branch Falls.

Hike Description: The trail starts from the upper end of the parking area. A sign here calls it Juney Whank Loop Trail. You’ll climb steeply to the junction with Deep Creek Horse Trail at 400 feet. Turn right and continue climbing another 285 yards to a side path on the right, from which point the waterfall is visible. Take the side path to the footbridge at the falls.
To make this a loop hike, continue on the path, climbing to rejoin the horse trail. Turn right, go 50 feet, and take the right fork to descend to Deep Creek Trail. A right turn will bring you back to the parking area. The total distance on the loop is 0.6 mile.

Overview: According to Place Names of the Smokies, this waterfall was named for Junaluska “Juney” Whank, who lived in the area and is said to be buried nearby. Whank was named after the famous Cherokee chief Junaluska. The waterfall is nothing to get excited over but makes a fine addition to a hike to Tom Branch Falls and Indian Creek Falls.

Directions to Location

1. From downtown Bryson City, turn off Main Street (US 19) onto Everett Street
2. Drive 0.2 mile and turn right on Depot Street just after crossing the railroad tracks
3. Go less than 0.2 mile and turn left on Ramsey Street, which becomes Deep Creek Road and enters the park at about 2.2 miles
4. Continue 0.6 mile to the large parking lot at the end of the road.

Trails and Waterfalls can be dangerous; take no chances, only photos for memories. Read our Safety and Insider tips to have a safe, fun and enjoyable trip to Jackson County.

Leave No Trace — Seven Principles

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more details, visit www.lnt.org
©1999 by the Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics