Deep Creek - Sunkota Loop
Hike Number: 502
Area Location: Smoky Mountain National Park
Trailhead Location: Deep Creek Campground
Trailend Location: same
Hike Type: Loop
Hiking Distance (miles): 13
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation Range: 1,929 / 3,860
Total Elevation Gain: 2,700
Total Elevation Descent: 2,700
Route Map: .\Hiking\Maps\0502.pdf
Route Profile: .\Hiking\Profiles\0502.pdf
Download GPX track: .\hiking\download\0502.gpx
Trail Description: Deep Creek Trail to right onto Martin's Gap Trail; right onto Sunkotoa Trail; left onto Loop Trail; right onto Indian Creek Trail; left onto Deep Creek Trail to trailhead.Hike along beautiful Deep Creek, then climb up to and on Sunkota Ridge. Good winter views from ridge.
Topos: Bryson City, Clingman's Dome
Flower Season: April
DriveHead: Westgate Shopping Center
2nd Meeting Place: Waynesville Rest Stop on US 23/74
Driving Distance(Miles-RT): 135
Driving Directions: I-26 E to I-40 W to exit 27; US 23/74 S to Bryson City exit; drive through Bryson City (right, then left) to GSMNP Deep Creek trailhead
Notes: The Bryson City Boy Scouts placed a memorial to Horace Kephart near campsite 57, marking his last permanent campsite. Tricky footing on south part of Sunkota Ridge. Be carefull in winter.
Hike History: A0601(cancelled), A0801