South Carolina Highpoint
Sassafras Mountain
3,560 ft · Jocassee Gorges · Blue Ridge Mountains
Short walkLoading map…
The summit pin marks Sassafras Mountain beside the South Carolina and North Carolina state line and observation tower. Parking is immediately below the summit area, so a separate access marker would add little useful map context.
USGS-derived Sassafras Mountain summit locationStandard route
Sassafras Mountain Peak Trail
Drive F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway to the summit-area parking lot, then follow the short accessible path toward the Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower and South Carolina highpoint.
Distance
About 0.6 mi
Elevation gain
Minimal
Route
Out & back
Difficulty
Easy
Trailhead
Sassafras Mountain Overlook parking
Typical hazards: Fog, thunderstorms, strong wind, wet surfaces, and winter snow or ice can affect the exposed summit and steep mountain access road.
SCDNR describes the Sassafras Mountain Peak Trail as about one-third mile from the parking area to the observation tower.
SCDNR: Sassafras Mountain Peak TrailAccess
F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway
From the Pickens area, follow US 178 north to Rocky Bottom, then turn onto F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway and follow it approximately 4.7 miles to the summit-area parking lot.
Parking is near the summit.
F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway ends at the Sassafras Mountain parking area. Snow, ice, severe weather, or road work can temporarily close the summit road or gate.
Park amenities
- Summit-area parking
- Restrooms near the parking area
- Accessible summit path and tower ramp
- Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower
Know before you go
Sassafras Mountain Overlook rules
Visit only from one hour before official sunrise until one hour after official sunset.
Camping and fires are prohibited at the overlook site.
Alcohol is prohibited at the overlook site.
Keep pets on a leash.
Drones are prohibited.
Bicycles may not be ridden onto the observation platform.
Conditions
Check before leaving
Check current SCDNR information and local weather before traveling during winter storms or severe weather. The overlook is open from one hour before official sunrise until one hour after official sunset.