Near Glassy Mountain
Carl Sandburg National Historic Site - photo courtesy of NPS
Near Glassy Mountain
Carl Sandburg National Historic Site Main House - photo courtesy of NPS
Near Glassy Mountain
Looking towards the house and fothergillas in the foreground.
Near Glassy Mountain
View of the Carl Sandburg Home.
Near Glassy Mountain
Looking west from Glassy mountain top.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Glassy Mountain

4.7 (7 Ratings)
A great out-and-back hike with a lot to see along the way.
3.2
mi
Distance
670
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Fall ColorsFamily FriendlyViews

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
3.24mi
Distance
670ft
Elevation Gain
670ft
Elevation Loss
35%
Max Grade
2,780ft
High Point
2,151ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
From the parking lot, follow the Parking to Main House Connector as it winds along the road to reach the main house. Once at the main house, take some time to explore the house and grounds as there is plenty of interesting history to discover. When you are ready to continue on, look for the Memminger Trail Loop near the south side of the house.You'll only be on the Memminger Trail Loop for a short distance. This wooded trail is easy to follow, and soon you'll come to a marked junction with the Glassy Mountain Trail. Continue straight ahead to start your climb up to the summit.The next section of trail is a little bit steeper, but there is nothing unmanageable. There are a few benches along the way as well so you can always stop to catch your breath if needed. Eventually, the trail will pass a small rock outcropping, and you'll come to an open granite slab, the top of Glassy Mountain. The views are quite nice with the rolling hills and wooded grounds stretching out before you. On a clear day, you can spot Mount Pisgah in the distance. Once you are done enjoying the views, simply retrace your steps back the way you came.
History & Background
Visit the park's website for a deep dive into the history of Carl Sandburg's home.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Kristen Arendt