Dennis Corporation has been selected to perform inspection services for the construction of the new observation tower on Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina’s highest point at 3,553 feet. The construction on this project began on November 2017 and is expected to complete as early as May 2018. The high possibility of snow may delay this completion date.
The project contains two phases; the first phase includes the construction of the observation tower at the summit of the mountain that will offer a 360-degree view as well as a hiking access trail and restrooms. Four states can be viewed from the tower, South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. The second phase of the project includes a picnic area, accessory trails, informational kiosks and parking lot improvements. During the construction for this project a chain-link fence will surround the top of the mountain for safety and security and hiking trails will be diverted away from the mountain top. The viewing platform built by Clemson architectural students will remain open during the time of the construction.
The Sassafras Mountain is part of the Jim Tammerman Natural Resources Area at Jocassee Gorges, managed by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources. The Sassafras Mountain also contains the Foothills Trail which stretches 77 miles and connects Table Rock and Oconee state parks. Sassafras Mountain is also a part of the Palmetto Trail which will connect South Carolina Mountains to the sea through a 500 mile continuous trail.