Whiteside Mountain
Whiteside Mountain
Whiteside Mountain has an elevation of 4,930 ft and is located between Cashiers and Highlands. The mountain offers magnificent views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Piedmont of South Carolina. The 1000 foot vertical cliff along the south side of Whiteside Mountain is a favorite amongst southeast rock climbers. Whiteside Mountain is about 390 to 460 million years old.
The 2-mile loop trail climbs above sheer 750-foot high cliffs offering great views of the surrounding area. The first mile of the hike consist of the initial climb up the back north side of the mountain via the steps, stairs and board walks. Once you get to the top there are plenty of beautiful views. Coming back down the mountain will be much easily because you will be coming down an old jeep trail which will take you back to the parking lot.
Because Whiteside Mountain is home to peregrine falcons, mountain climbing may be prohibited from January until summer because the falcons return annually to nest on the rock ledges.
Spring and Fall temperatures range from the 40's-60's. Summer temperatures range from the 50's-80's. Winter temperatures range in the 20's-40's.
