This Incredible Lookout In South Carolina Is So Worth The Hike It Takes To Get There
By AnneMarie|Published December 08, 2023
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AnneMarie
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South Carolina has been home for AnneMarie since 2001. Her favorite part of the state is Lake Jocassee. An App State alumna, it's always the mountains; the lake bonus makes it heavenly. When not writing about the state, she may be spending time with family, relaxing by the pool, or out somewhere enjoying nature.
With gorgeous, expansive views of four states, the lookout at the top of Sassafras Mountain is almost beyond belief. Neither words nor pictures can possibly do it justice. You must see it for yourself, and there are a couple of options for reaching this state landmark. For those who’d like to get in an extensive workout while seeing almost 20 miles of South Carolina’s mountainous terrain, the Table Rock to Sassafras Viewpoint Loop is one of the best hikes near Greenville, S.C. that you can take.
This hiking trail is located within Table Rock State Park in Pickens, which is in the upstate area of South Carolina about 20 miles west of Greenville. The hike is considered strenuous with an elevation gain of 4,819 feet and overall length of 19.6 miles.
It's a rugged trail with inclines and objects to step over or navigate around, but along the way you'll get peeks now and then of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains through the trees.
You'll also enjoy other kinds of nature sights, including wildlife of various types. Local wildlife common to the area includes black bear, white-tailed deer, raccoon, gray fox, bobcat, wild turkey, and many other species of smaller mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Averaging at over 10.5 hours to complete, the trail eventually reaches Sassafras Observation Tower lookout spot, which has been open only since April 2019.
The border between South Carolina and North Carolina runs across this very spot, where you can stand in both states at once! So much for the I can't be in two places at the same time! notion.
One significant and unique feature of the Sassafras Mountain Observation Tower is that four different states can be seen here. There are markers at different areas of the lookout identifying the view.
And for all who love seeing the colors of fall, you'll want to add this one to your autumn bucket list! That's a million dollar view when leaves are at peak fall color, making the Table Rock to Sassafras Viewpoint Loop one of the best hikes near Greenville, South Carolina.
