Trail Overview
Fires Creek 340 is an out-and-back trail that wanders through the Nantahala National Forest. It starts at a day-use picnic area and follows Fires Creek the entire time, with access points along the way. The road is wide enough for 2 vehicles up until the halfway mark, but then it narrows. There are plenty of places to pull over and pass other vehicles. Cell service is limited, so plan accordingly. There are several secluded creekside campsites along the way and a campground suited for equestrian camping. There is an outhouse-style bathroom at the campground, but you must take your garbage with you. At 4.6 miles, the terrain changes with the center of the road raised slightly and becoming narrower. There are also some small ruts about 8-10" deep. At this point, high clearance vehicles are recommended. I was able to complete the trail in 2WD the whole way.
Difficulty
This is an easy, well-maintained trail with decent elevation gain, but it becomes slightly more challenging halfway through.