South Carolina’s highest point is a mountain summit that we share equally with North Carolina. That’s because the state line was drawn right across the top of Sassafras Mountain. But that’s okay. We still claim it as our own and we even just built a new observation tower in South Carolina right on the summit.
Before the new Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower opened in 2019, folks could still drive up Van Clayton Memorial Highway to the top of Sassafras Mountain and rest their elbows on the railing of a small wooden deck perched on the side of the mountain.
Google/Patty Reed Sure, it was a beautiful view but it was nothing like today’s view from the new tower!
Drive on over to the mountain and climb the 26 steps to the top of this new observation tower and get a brand new 360-degree view of the surrounding terrain.
AllTrails/Ty Travaglia
Just that additional 20 feet or so gained with the rise of the tower has added the ability to see all the way to Georgia from this mountain in South Carolina.
Google/Jaideep Vaidya
Of course, since the state line runs right over the top of the mountain we could always see “all the way” to North Carolina, since we could always stand here with one foot planted in South Carolina and the other in North Carolina.
AllTrails/Malcolm Wilbur
The return of nice weather means you’ll be getting outside to play more often now. Why not plan a day trip over to visit the highest peak in South Carolina at Sassafras Mountain?
Google/Sierra Curtis
To get there, you’ll point your car in the direction of the small community of Rocky Bottom found on U.S. Highway 178. When you get there, turn onto Van Clayton Memorial Highway (near to Sunset, South Carolina) and travel about five miles to the parking area for Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower.
Google/Gerald Roger jr From the parking area, there’s a paved trail of about 300 feet to get to the tower. For those seeking ADA-accessible attractions, the tower is compliant. But be warned that the short 300-foot paved trail to the tower is a bit steep.
Have you already scoped out the wonderful views from this new observation tower in South Carolina? What did you think?
Google/Patty Reed
Sure, it was a beautiful view but it was nothing like today’s view from the new tower!
AllTrails/Ty Travaglia
Google/Jaideep Vaidya
AllTrails/Malcolm Wilbur
Google/Sierra Curtis
Google/Gerald Roger jr
From the parking area, there’s a paved trail of about 300 feet to get to the tower. For those seeking ADA-accessible attractions, the tower is compliant. But be warned that the short 300-foot paved trail to the tower is a bit steep.
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Address: Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower, 1391 F Van Clayton Memorial Hwy, Sunset, SC 29685, USA
