Sassafras Mountain Tower — Attraction in Brevard

Nice view, but if the gate is closed, be prepared for a long walk. There were signs warning that the gate was closed, but we drove up any. We visited a few hours after it snowed. For safety reasons I’m sure, they locked the gate that is about 1.5 miles from the top. So we parked on the side of the road and walked up. It was a pretty walk with all the snow, but that mile and a half felt like 5 miles, with some flat stretches but mostly steep inclines. It took us about an hour round trip. I agree with another reviewer. It is not ADA accessible. There is a slightly easier gravel trail from the gravel parking lot to the observation tower or you can take a short but steep walk up the concrete driveway. The bathrooms were closed, I assume due to COVID. I’m glad they left the small observation deck on the SC side. It’s just off the back corner of the parking lot. It’s easier to get to but still not ADA accessible. There is no cell service from the gate until you get to the top. Although I love the new observation tower, I still can’t give it more than three stars because of the accessibility issues from the parking lot up. I hope they can...

At more than 3,500 feet, the tower is atop the highest point in South Carolina with views of three states and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Talk of building the tower began in fall of 2010. Construction on the $1.1 million project started November 2017. The state Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) says visitors can see views 30 to 50 miles away on clear days. The tower has a paved road leading to the top, mobility-impaired trail and ramp, and restrooms in the parking lot.  “The highest point in the state is a geographical landmark that every South Carolinian, young and old, should have the opportunity to see and enjoy,” SCDNR Director Alvin Taylor said in a statement. Sassafras Mountain is about 20 miles north of Pickens. The Foothills Trail is there, and the Palmetto Trail also flanks the mountain. (Facts from...

Was a little cloudy when we were there but the view was still spectacular! The area is well maintained and the tower is accessible (wide, paved trail) but be prepared for a steep walk and, if you are in a wheelchair, make sure to have a good strong, healthy assistant. Even then you won't be able to go up on the tower that looks at the pinnacle but that gives an amazing pulpit to view three states at one time. Even with that one drawback, the climb is worth the view. Really pretty place for a side trip. Even adults enjoyed stepping back and forth over the line between North Carolina and...