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3,560 ft · Blue Ridge Mountains, South Carolina
Sassafras Mountain
Sassafras Mountain is a 3,560 ft peak in the Blue Ridge Mountains, South Carolina. The standard route is the Observation Tower Walk: 0.2 mi, 52 ft of gain, Class 1.
Sassafras Mountain at a glance
- Elevation3,560 ft1,085 m
- RouteObservation Tower WalkClass 1
- Distance0.2 mi52 ft gain
- Time10 – 20 minEasy effort
- SeasonYear‑round
- RangeBlue Ridge MountainsSouth Carolina
Climbing the Observation Tower Walk
From Pickens, South Carolina, take Highway 178 north into the mountains near the North Carolina border. A short trail leads to an observation tower at the summit with nice views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Can be windy on the tower. Easy family outing suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Fall colors are beautiful in October. Small parking area at the trailhead. No permits or fees required. Best visited year-round though summers can be hot and humid. A pleasant stop when traveling through upstate South Carolina.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (15–25 L)
Water
First-Aid Kit
Offline Maps
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Trail Shoes
Midlayer
Sun Hat
Buff
GPS Device
What to watch for
- Storms
- High winds
Quests with Sassafras Mountain
50 State HighpointsPeaks near Sassafras Mountain
Frequently asked questions
How tall is Sassafras Mountain?
Sassafras Mountain is 3,560 feet (1,085 m) tall. It is in the Blue Ridge Mountains, South Carolina.
Is Sassafras Mountain the highest point in South Carolina?
Yes. At 3,560 feet, Sassafras Mountain is the highest point in South Carolina.
How hard is it to hike Sassafras Mountain?
The Observation Tower Walk is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort easy: 0.2 miles with 52 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike Sassafras Mountain?
Most people take 10 – 20 minutes round trip on the Observation Tower Walk, covering 0.2 miles with 52 feet of elevation gain.
Can a beginner hike Sassafras Mountain?
Most people can. It is a short walk of 0.2 miles with 52 feet of elevation gain, about 10 – 20 minutes round trip.
When is the best time to hike Sassafras Mountain?
Sassafras Mountain is open for hiking year-round. Conditions change with the seasons, so check the summit forecast before you go.
Climb Sassafras Mountain with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list