Located in the Blue Ridge Mountain and split in the center the North Carolina, South Carolina border. As well as sitting on the Eastern Western Divide. With a summit of 3,554ft, Sassafras Mountain is the tallest point in the state of South Carolina. Featuring a 360 degree viewing tower with unobstructed views. This is a must do for anyone visiting the north west area of the state. Below are our tips on hiking Sassafras Mountain. With options from ¼ – 19 miles, there are options for everyone. So add this one to your list and check out the details below.
Hiking Sassafras Mountain – South Carolina’s Highest Peak
How tall is Sassafras Mountain?
Sassafras Mountain has a height of 3,554ft, and is the tallest mountain in South Carolina. The tough peak is divided by the Stateline it shares with North Carolina. There is actually a state line marked through the lookout tower. Pinnacle Mountain is the tallest mountain contained solely in the state of South Carolina.
Hiking Sassafras Mountain
Sassafrass Mountain via NC-178
Distance: 8.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,185ft
AllTrails LInk: Click Here
Table Rock to Sassafras Viewpoint (Tags Pinnacle Mountain Too)
Distance: 19+ miles
Elevation Gain: 5,000ft+
AllTrails LInk: Click Here (Alltrails is wrong on distance and elevation. Has been surveyed by the park service at 9.7 miles one way.)
Can I drive to the top of Sassafras Mountain?
Yes, Sassafras Mountain Road will take you close to the summit. Roughly ¼ mile from the viewing tower at the top of the mountain. The road is paved and can be done in almost any vehicle. Just make sure to check the weather conditions as rain, ice, and snow can make the road up the mountain dangerous.
Is there Parking at the Top of Sassafras Mountain?
Yes, there is parking near the top of the mountain. There are 30+ parking spots and two easy walking trails and a larger paved road (can not be driven) taking you to the lookout tower at the top. Roughly a ¼ mile walk on an easy path.
Is there a bathroom?
Yes! There is a restroom located at the parking lot. How clean they are I can’t say. However, I would highly recommend bringing your own biodegradable wet wipes and hand sanitizer. These two items are a must for any park bathroom.
Does it Snow on Sassafras Mountain?
Yes it can snow on and near the peak. Make sure you pay attention to the weather report if you are going late fall, winter, or early spring. Weather can affect the road conditions and make the observation tower very slick. And like with most mountains, the weather can change very quickly.
The Sassafras Mountain Tower
One of the best reasons to make this hike is the Sassafras Mountain Tower located on the summit. Opening in April 2019, the tower offers visitors 360 degree, unobstructed views for up to 30-40 miles. Standing 44ft above the mountain’s summit. In addition, there is even a state line marker painted down the middle which is kind of cool too.
Is the Tower Wheelchair Friendly?
Yes it is! One of the great things about the Sassafras Mountain Tower is that it is wheelchair accessible. Which is great! In my opinion, if you’re going to build a road to the top you might as well make the final hike and tower accessible for everyone. The group that raised the fund for the tower did it right.
Water
While we were there, we were unable to find a water fountain or pipe. We could not find one near the restroom. Therefore, I would plan on bringing water. Especially in the spring and summer. And if we just missed the water fountain, please let us know in the comments below.
Best Time of Year to Visit
The summit is open year around but there are certain times that are better to visit than others. The most popular times are are early spring March – Mid-May. And fall September – November. The weather in the summer can be incredibly hot and humid. And the winter can be cold with weather affecting the driving conditions. The viewing tower allows you to above the tree line year around.
