Sassafras Mountain has got to be one of the most ICONIC places in all of South Carolina to elope!

Sassafras Mountain is the highest point in the entire state! Technically, it is located right outside of Greenville in Pickens County, SC. It is part of the Appalachian Mountains and has an observation tower that offers 360 degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Learn About Sassafras Mountain

Is there a fee to visit Sassafras Mountain?

There is no fee at this time!

When is Sassafras Mountain open?

Sassafras Mountain is usually open all year around. The only exception would be if it snows and they have to close the gate to drive all the way up. However, you can still hike up through the snow.

Where is Sassafras Mountain located?

Sassafras Mountain is located in Pickens County, South Carolina, right on the North Carolina border. The closest major city is Greenville, SC, approximately a 64 min drive (44 miles). The closest airport will also be located in Greenville, the Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP).

Do we need a permit to elope at Sassafras Mountain?

No, all you will need is your South Carolina marriage license! You can obtain this by applying for you marriage license online, waiting the required 24-hour waiting period, and then returning the marriage license within 15 days of the ceremony. And in South Carolina, you do not need any witnesses, you only need your officiant.

Planning your Greenville, SC Elopement at Sassafras Mountain

Where to Stay Near Sassafras Mountain

1) Lakefront Tiny Cabin | Tamassee, SC

• DISTANCE: 39 min (28 miles) from Sassafras Mountain
• COST: $141/night + taxes/fees
• GUESTS: 6
• BEDS: 5
• BEDROOMS: 1
• BATHROOMS: 1

2) The Forestry House | Travelers Rest, SC

• DISTANCE: 38 min (28 miles) from Sassafras Mountain
• COST: $289/night + taxes/fees
• GUESTS: 2
• BEDS: 1
• BEDROOMS: 1
• BATHROOMS: 1

3) The Majestic Treehouse | Walhalla, SC

• DISTANCE: 51 min (32 miles) from Sassafras Mountain
• COST: $458/night + taxes/fees
• GUESTS: 2
• BEDS: 1
• BEDROOMS: 1
• BATHROOMS: 1

Best Time of Year for Your Sassafras Mountain Elopement

Since it stays pretty warm in South Carolina, Sassafras Mountain is accessible MOST of the year. However, that can mean that it will stay pretty crowded, especially in the warmest months. So the best time of year for your elopement really depends on what you’re looking for, and what’s most important to you on your elopement day.

If you want warm, then June-August. If you want fall colors then mid-September to mid-October. If you want fewer crowds then March-April or November. I don’t recommend eloping at Sassafras Mountain in December-February since it will be much colder at the high elevation. They also close the gate when it snows so you would have to hike ~1 mile up to the top.

No matter what time of year you choose to elope at Sassafras Mountain, make sure to keep an eye on current weather when you get close to your elopement! You should always have at least one backup location/plan in place in case your original plan falls through due to unexpected weather, road conditions, etc.

P.S. don’t be discouraged if it rains on your elopement day!! I know you probably want to see the sun and get clear skies – but let’s be honest, South Carolina can be unpredictable. If it’s cloudy, or rains on your elopement day, the best thing you can do is go with the flow and adapt!

Fun Activities to Plan for Your Sassafras Mountain Elopement

• Fishing on Lake Jocassee
• Hiking in Table Rock State Park
• A sunset picnic at Sassafras Mountain
• Campfire at a cozy AirBnb
• Grab a drink at Jocassee Brewing Co.

Places to eat near Sassafras Mountain

Jocassee Valley Brewing Company | Website

Vendors for Your Sassafras Mountain Elopement

Hair/Makeup

• Locks & Lashes | Website

Florists

• Earth Blooms | Website

Officiant

• Weddings By Lisa | Website

Stationery

• Caroline Cannon Design Co. | Website

Cake/Dessert

• Cardamom Bakeshop | Website

Hiring your Sassafras Mountain Elopement Photographer

Hey y’all, I’m Tessa! I’m a Sassafras Mountain elopement photographer who is OBSESSED with this incredible area, and helping couples plan their dream day at this epic location. I offer Sassafras Mountain elopement packages for every couple’s unique day and would sooo love to explore this amazing mountain with you two. Let’s get y’all married – contact me here and I’ll send you a customized pricing guide within 24-48 hours! Can’t wait!

Full Sassafras Mountain Elopement Gallery

View a FULL Sassafras Mountain Elopement Gallery >> HERE <<.