Mountain overlook will be closed during bad weather

On this official first day of winter, South Carolina DNR has issued a reminder that when severe weather hits, the road that leads to a popular overlook will likely be closed for safety reasons.  In bad weather, Pickens County may close the gate on the F. Van Clayton Highway, the road to Sassafras Mountain, about one mile from the overlook.  Any vehicles left at the parking area near the overlook would be inaccessible if they are still there when the road is closed.  Closings will be posted on the SC Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) website and on social media.  However, advanced warning to the closures may be limited because of changing weather conditions.  Sassafras Mountain Overlook is part of the Jocassee Gorges in northern Oconee and Pickens counties on the North Carolina border and surrounding Lake Jocassee.  The property features many forest eco-systems and many rivers and streams.