Sassafras Observation Tower compass on the floor

Sassafras Mountain Overlook | Amazing 350-degree views

Looking for information on Sassafras Mountain Overlook?

Would you like to experience South Carolina’s highest point at 3,553 feet above sea level? Then check out Sassafras Mountain Overlook, which officially opened to the public on April 22, 2019, on Earth Day. The views are stunning, and you have a 350-degree view of the entire area.

Sassafras Observation Tower

What states can you see from Sassafras Mountain Overlook?

From the top, you can view NC, GA, and SC. Fun fact: you can actually stand in NC and SC at the same time on top of the observation tower. The tower is part of the Jocassee Gorges area and is about 20 miles north of Pickens, SC.

Sassafras Observation Tower

South Carolina doesn’t get much credit when it comes to the Blue Ridge Mountains, but this is a place to put on your list to check out! There is a lot of beauty in the northwestern portion of SC.

Sassafras Oberservation Tower

The observation tower sits on the Eastern Continental Divide. In addition, you will find access to the Foothills Trail, a 77-mile path between Table Rock and Oconee State Parks. Plus, the Palmetto Trail, one day it will connect the South Carolina mountains to the sea in a continuous trail of 500 miles.

Sassafras Observation Tower Foothills Trail Sign

Can you drive to the top of Sassafras Mountain?

Yes, you can drive to the top; it’s a beautiful drive. The road is well maintained, and near the top, you will reach more of a gravel road, and the road starts to narrow. There is ample parking, and from there, it’s a short walk to the observation tower.

Address: 1391 F Van Clayton Memorial Hwy, Sunset, SC 29685

Where is Sassafras Mountain?

If you are coming from the town of Pickens, SC, travel just under 16 miles north on US 178 to Rocky Bottom. Turn right on F. Van Clayton Memorial Highway and go almost 5 miles to the end of the road. It’s a steady incline when you are driving in, but the road is very well maintained; it starts to narrow as you get closer to the top.

The gravel parking area is on the left. Parking is free, and you will find two pit toilets available as well. The parking lot is a fairly good size, but we could see it filling up quickly during popular times of the year to visit. We recommend getting there early if you want to avoid the crowds.

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    Sassafras Mountain Overlook Hours

    Access to the tower is available from sunrise to just past sunset. So, if you are like me and love to take sunrise or sunset photos, this would be a fantastic place to do so!

    The View from Sassafras Mountain Overlook

    From the top, you can see a variety of mountain ranges and lakes in the distance, including Lake Jocassee; note if you want the best views of Lake Jocassee, check out Jumping Off Rock Overlook. Below are some photos on a cloudy day from the top of Sassafras Mountain’s Observation Tower

    Sassafras Mountain Overlook: FAQs

    📌 Why is it called Sassafras Mountain?
    On the lower slopes, there are a large number of sassafras trees that grow nearby.

    Other Sites to Visit Nearby Sassafras Mountain

    Do you love history? Then, we recommend traveling about 30 minutes away to a historic grist mill called Hagood Mill. At the mill, you will find a blacksmith shop, a cotton gin, a moonshine still, and historic cabins. Also, there are Native American rock carvings. You will find numerous walking trails and a steel-constructed bridge that dates back to 1930.

    Want to have a place to watch the sunrise in northern SC? Head over to Bald Rock Heritage Preserve near Ceasars Head State Park. You will find gorgeous views of the SC foothills and Table Rock. The drive is about 40-45 mins away.

    Distance to Greenville NC: 40 miles
    Distance to Spartanburg NC: 72 miles