Sassafras Mountain [Suggest Edits]

Description

With an elevation of 3,553 feet, Sassafras Mountain is the highest point in South Carolina, and it also happens to sit on the North Carolina/South Carolina state line, too.

From the summit, take a moment to enjoy the view from the new (as of April 22, 2019) $1.1 million Observation Tower. You can either drive straight to the top or take advantage of the Foothills Trail from Chimneytop Gap, Table Rock, or Caesars Head for a more intensive experience.

On the Road: From Highway 178: Turn onto F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway in Rocky Bottom. If you are coming from South Carolina and see the North Carolina state line, you've gone too far. Continue on this road for 4.75 miles to the summit parking area. Continue on foot on the short but steep paved pathway to the observation tower. Alternatively, you can park off the road at Chimneytop Gap about 1.35 miles after you turn onto F. Van Clayton for a 2.1-mile hike to the top along the Foothills Trail.

From Table Rock State Park: From Pinnacle Mountain Trail, take the Foothills Trail for 9.7 miles to just below the parking area.

From Caesars Head State Park: From the Naturaland Trust Trail, take the Caesars Head Foothills Trail for 14.2 miles to the parking area.

ADA Accessible: Steep paved pathway from parking to the tower and then an ADA ramp to the 11-foot-high observation tower top platform area.

Family Friendly: With drive-up access to the overlook, this gem is easily enjoyed by the whole family.

Gem Type: Viewpoint