Sumter National Forest Brass Town Bald Fire Tower Technical Circuit

The abandoned fire tower road to Brass Town Bald cuts through some of the most technical terrain in Sumter’s Andrew Pickens District. This forgotten Forest Service route climbs 1,400 feet through granite boulder fields and crosses Chattooga River tributaries three times before reaching the deteriorating concrete tower foundation at 3,080 feet. The final mile requires careful tire placement between house-sized granite slabs that’ll test your spotter skills and undercarriage clearance.

Rated difficult due to the rock gardens and water crossings — stock vehicles will struggle here. You’ll need decent approach angles, rock rails, and all-terrain tires minimum. Spring and fall offer the best conditions when creek levels are manageable and temperatures stay reasonable. No permits required, but this is true backcountry with zero cell service. Dispersed camping is allowed along the lower sections. The payoff is solitude and panoramic views across three states from the summit clearing.