Deep Creek Tubing

Get Close to Nature With a Float Down Deep Creek

Ready to cool down? Grab a tube and enjoy a float through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the crisp, cool waters of Deep Creek near Bryson City Tubing companies generally operate from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day; however, Deep Creek tubing can begin earlier in May and continue after Labor Day if the weather is warm.

Several tube rental companies are located near the entrance to Deep Creek, Great Smoky Mountains National Park,on West Deep Creek Road. These tubing outfitters rent light-weight inflatables with seats, with daily rental rates. Children 13 years of age and younger are required to wear a life jacket while tubing. Bring your own, or rent one along with your tube.

There are two parking lots at Deep Creek. The first one is the picnic area with public restrooms and easy creek access. However the second parking lot is located at the Deep Creek trailhead. Both parking areas are close to each other, so try the trailhead lot first. If it is full, go back to the first parking lot.

Although you can float in your tube anywhere along the creek or picnic area, the best and most popular float requires you to carry your inner tube upstream along the Deep Creek trail. The first put-in will be on your left, just after you cross the first bridge (about a half mile in). This location ensures a more leisurely ride. Or travel further upstream on the Deep Creek trail to a well-marked put-in, located where Indian Creek flows into Deep Creek.The initial ride on the second put-in will be a bouncier ride, until you reach the bridge area (near the first put-in) where the creek transitions to a more leisurely float.

The Deep Creek section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has abundant outdoor adventure opportunities in addition to tubing, including waterfalls, hiking, biking, picnicking, and swimming.