Tom Branch Falls

Hike Description: The trail, a continuation of the paved road, turns to gravel beyond the turnaround. If you’re hiking in summer, pay close attention because you’ll walk right by the waterfall if the sign is missing. Look for a little clearing at a large oak tree beside Deep Creek. The waterfall drops into Deep Creek from the opposite mountainside.

Overview: Visit this waterfall in winter or early spring. During those times, particularly after a good rain, it’s among the more scenic waterfalls in the park. In summer, it’s so covered by foliage and the water flow is so low that you won’t even notice it.
According to the Bryson City topo map and the book Place Names of the Smokies, the correct spelling is Tom Branch. The book says the branch was probably named for Tom Wiggins, who operated a gristmill on the stream from 1854 to 1892. Among the many places you’ll see the name incorrectly spelled as Toms is the first edition of this book.

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