Dwarfed in popularity by the nearby Table Rock State Park and Mountain Bridge Wilderness, Glassy Mountain loop will entertain those looking for a short and easy trail with a great view. Driving up South Glassy Mountain road, the trailhead will be on the right immediately after passing South Glassy Mountain Church road and before the communication towers at the top of the mountain. Either park along the road next to the trailhead or just head to top of the road.

Beginning roadside, the trail starts off level, following the contour of the hillside. Navigating the trail is easy but there are a mix of trail signs including an arrow and a green and white hiker circle. The trail soon comes to a 3-way split at just past half a mile. The lower two trails form a short loop that takes you to the edge of the namesake rock face. Water often flows down the rock, giving it a glassy appearance from a distance. One of the first things you will notice is the graffiti covering the rock. Some might consider this less like vandalism and more like “trail art.” Rest for a moment and take in the expansive views of the neighboring farmland and distant mountain ranges including Table Rock and Pinnacle mountains.

Returning to the main trail, most of the hike’s elevation is gained heading to the top of the mountain. Unlike most mountain summits, it’s not exactly picturesque due to the communication towers and barbed wire fence. From here you can either head back down the trail or walk down the road back to the trailhead to form a 1 mile loop.