Lower Bald Springs Falls

FS 340 gate at the FS 340C junction in the Fires Creek area, walk the gated road to the sharp left bend, bushwhack down, wade Fires Creek and creekwalk up Bald Springs Branch

Waterfall Hero lists 2.2 miles from the pull-off near the FS 340C split, where Kevin Adams found FS 340 gated in June 2025. That is about 0.9 to 1 mile of gated road each way plus a short off-trail descent and creekwalk.

Gated gravel road, then a steep off-trail descent through open woods, a wade across Fires Creek that may be difficult in high water, and a creekwalk. Kevin Adams rates it difficult.

Where to start

Pull-off near the junction of FS 340 and FS 340C, where FS 340 was gated in June 2025, nearly 8 miles up Fires Creek Wildlife Road (which becomes FS 340) from Fires Creek Road near Hayesville. Do not block the gate. Published coordinates: 35.12538, -83.79408.

Timing & water

Kevin Adams reported in June 2025 that FS 340 was gated because of Helene damage, with no estimate for reopening. Expect wet feet; high water makes the Fires Creek crossing unsafe.

Before you go

Tusquitee Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest; no fee is stated by the sources.