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Sassafras Mountain: South Carolina's Rooftop

Reach the peak of South Carolina's beauty at Sassafras Mountain, offering easy access and stunning four-state views.

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Ascend to Sassafras Mountain, the highest point in South Carolina, offering panoramic views stretching across four states. With a newly constructed observation tower and easy access, it's a must-visit for nature lovers and sightseers alike.

A brief summary to Sassafras Mountain

  • South Carolina, US

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall for cooler temperatures and optimal viewing conditions [14].
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views from the observation tower [14].
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the flat areas near the observation deck [8].
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From the intersection of SC 11 and US 178 in Pickens County, drive north on US 178 for 7.5 miles to the community of Rocky Bottom [5]. Turn right onto F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway (Road 199) and follow it for 4.8 miles to the parking area at the top of the mountain [5]. Parking is free [12]. There are no restrooms at the summit [4].

Unlock the Best of Sassafras Mountain

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Discover more about Sassafras Mountain

Sassafras Mountain, reaching 3,560 feet (1,085 meters), proudly stands as the highest point in South Carolina [18]. Situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains, along the border with North Carolina, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape [18]. On a clear day, you can see as far as 50 miles, with sights including mountains in North Carolina and Georgia, and lakes within South Carolina [8]. The mountain's name comes from the abundance of sassafras trees on its lower slopes; these trees were historically used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes and as a spice [7]. The summit provides an easily accessible experience for all visitors [4]. A paved road leads to a parking area just below the summit, making the journey convenient [4]. From there, it's a short walk to the observation tower, which opened in 2019, providing enhanced panoramic views [7, 8]. For those seeking a more active experience, the Foothills Trail passes over Sassafras Mountain, offering hiking opportunities through the surrounding forests [5, 11]. The area is known for diverse birdlife, with opportunities to spot species such as the Ruffed Grouse and various warblers [5]. The mountain's geological history is also fascinating, with exposed rocks revealing millions of years of plate tectonics [17].

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