Sassafras Mt, SC high point 12/10/22

I filmed way too much of the hotel in this video 😆

My husband and I did this on 12/10/22; our first high point out of the six we had planned for this 800 mile trip. We were able to accomplish 4/6 and planning on going back to get Tennessee and North Carolina in the fall, when the colors pop. We did not realize that the road closes December 1st for Tennessee’s, High Point- Clingmans dome, and as we were in route four North Carolina’s, High Point – Mount Mitchell, when the road closed due to ice.

For this high point, it is an easy walk up from the parking lot to the observation tower. There are 2 routes to choose from- one is paved and one is gravel, both close to a .4 out and back and there is about 50 ft of elevation gain. There are nearby peaks that can be added, from other trails out of the parking lot. We were socked in the clouds but still enjoyed the experience of being on the East coast for my first time and for my 50th birthday! We put together an 800 mile driving route starting with this one. We stayed at the Skylaranna Resort in North Carolina (first and last day of our loop), which was 50 minutes from this trailhead. We intentionally booked inexpensive hotels and we were not expecting such a beautiful place for $115 per night! After this high point, we drove the 2.5 hours to Brasstown Bald. If you are into high pointing, I recommend this loop!