Hitchcock Woods is an amazing preserve of native flora, fauna and terrain in the heart of Aiken, SC. With nearly 70 miles of trails, this protected area is easily enjoyed by walkers and horseback riders alike. My family and I ride our Arabian horses over 100 miles each and every month in THE WOODS. We never tire of the beauty and surprises that great us each time! It's a delight to share Hitchcock Woods with visitors from all over the world. We meet people from CA to NY to France and beyond while enjoying trails there. This non-profit foundation is a rare treasure that reaches and teaches so many people. The saying, "Into the woods I go, to lose my mind and find my soul" aptly applies to Hitchcock Woods. It's a reminder of our connection to nature and a gift to all who are able to spend time there!
We are so lucky to have Hitchcock Woods and the Foundation that supports the Woods and keeps it maintained so beautifully for the benefit of the many users who ride or walk their.
Hitchcock Woods is a 2,200 acre paradise originally purchased by the Hitchcock Family as a preserve for hunting. Today it is open to any one where the trails are maintained by the Foundation. It is an enchanting natural space to ride horses, walk dogs, hike and run in the miles of trails kept up by a team of natural landscapers.
Enjoy the glory of the woods. This is a grand place to visit and will refresh and inspire even the most tired of souls. Some even say the woods have a curative effect on one's woes. Enjoy today!
Oh my gosh! These woods are priceless. To have a sanctuary like this is so special--I can't think of any other forest that's for equestrian and pedestrian use only (and dogs--on leash) without almost getting clipped by a mountain bike, e-bike, etc. The horses are such an important element of Aiken's culture, and to have a space to unwind with them is just so special. I'm so grateful to the Hitchcocks and others of their generation who donated this land and set it aside for this use. I follow HWF on Instagram and see the hard work they do to maintain a healthy forest floor with controlled burns, removing huge fallen trees and limbs, replacing foliage in the jumps on the many tracks, maintaining the gorgeous bright green grass in the show ring, maintaining fences and rails...it's a lot in a 2,000+ acre tract of woods, for sure. I so appreciate them and all they do! - Ashley
We love to drive our horse drawn carriage in the Woods! We also enjoy attending the annual horseshow held there. What a beautiful and unique treasure for Aiken.
I moved to Aiken when I retired to be close to my grandkids. I bought a house in Aiken Estates without seeing it in person. My son told me I’d love it because of Hitchcock Woods. He knows I love to hike. Ten years later I can say I have hiked every trail and the perimeter several times. My hiking friends and I often thank God for this space. It’s clean and beautiful with surprises everyday. It’s truly a treasure. The staff at the foundation are great. I’ll be out there in the morning
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As a biologist, I have seen a lot of natural areas. Hitchcock Woods is by far one of the most well-managed public preserves there is in the southeast. It is an absolute treasure to the community, and well-loved by equestrians, hikers, bird watchers, trail runners, dog walkers, and more. The Hitchcock Woods Foundation does a phenomenal job managing the habitat for rare wildlife like Red-cockaded Woodpecker, while doing a great job communicating when activities are happening.
The Woods continue to be a special outdoor space that is well maintained and invaluable for the surrounding community and visitors alike.
One of the most iconic pieces of properties in the USA! The amazing gift of the woods and what it provides is undoubtably beautiful.
As a frequent runner and hiker in the woods since moving here in '17 I have been on every trail of the 70 miles of trails and used every entrance and access point and I have to say Bennett Tucker and his entire team do a phenomenal job of maintaining trail conditions for horse and humans. You rarely see them working which adds to the peacefulness of the woods yet the trails are clear and carefully cared for and alway improvements to old and new trails and signage. A true Aiken treasure! Thanks HWF and all the workers and volunteers. David Nye, downtown Aiken resident.
Hitchcock Woods has magical powers. When you are having a bad day just take a walk or ride your horse through Hitchcock Woods. You will leave with a clear mind and the world seems to be a happy place again. Aiken would not be the town that it is without Hitchcock Woods. I Will always treasure the Woods.
I walk my dog in the woods almost everyday...usually twice a day. Everyday is magical! With so many paths, so many entrances you never get the same thing twice. And it's usually cooler to walk the dog on a hot day.....a quick dip in Black Gum Pond, or a hop into Coker Spring keeps my dog a happy dog. We love meeting up with old friends or making new ones. Love, love , love Hitchcock Woods . This is Rufus at the stream at Tea Cottage
The Hitchcock Woods is a national treasure. It is a beautifully managed park and the glory of Aiken. I ride my horse there frequently, as do my friends. Long live the Woods.
Hitchcock Woods,for me, is a sanctuary. It is a place I can escape to immerse myself into nature, quiet and solitude. My horse and I go at our own pace, meandering up and down the trails, just taking in the sights and the sounds of this lovely park! As I don't have a lot of acreage, this park provides me with plenty of space for me to enjoy my horse and I am very thankful that it is available. And as John Muir said "And into the woods I go to lose my mind and find my soul!"
Hitchcock Woods is a sanctuary for our small town. It captures the beauty of Aiken and provides the community with a place to congregate for numerous outdoor activities. Hitchcock Woods bring a sense of tourism, attracting athletes and nature lovers from surrounding areas. The historic value in the woods brings tradition that gathers our community for special traditions. The crew puts care into maintaining the woods that we have all know and love. It’s important to point out the opportunities that they provide for students and future conservationists. They take on internships and create events for those to learn about the woods. Personally, I’ve learned so much in the conversations I’ve had with the crew. The crew provides a safe sanctuary for the wildlife residents by performing prescribed burns, restoring bridges and water flow, and setting up bird boxes. I’m only an observer, but I know so much more goes into it. My story with Hitchcock Woods started 3 years ago and continues everyday. I ride horses in the woods at least 5 days a week and see the importance of the organization behind Hitchcock Woods. For example, A tree fell during a storm, it’s fixed the next day. Hitchcock Woods is one of the strongest and most organized nonprofits I’ve seen, but without the public’s recognition and support, the boards actions, or the hard working crew it wouldn’t be what it is today!
Hitchcock Woods Foundation does a tremendous job of taking care of one of Aiken's most treasured resources, Hitchcock Woods. The small staff does a great job with their operations and stewardship of the forest.
The restoration efforts have improved the habitat and I have never seen such a diverse collection of wildlife that continue to flourish. Keep up the good work!
Hitchcock woods is such a treasure to the Aiken Community thanks to the efforts of the Foundation. The immense trail system is well maintained for walkers, runners, and those on horseback. It is a huge part of the community and lifestyle in Aiken.
I am so grateful to have the Hitchcock Woods right in my backyard to enjoy as much as I can. The woods are so well maintained and every time I go out, there are many others out enjoying the woods as well.
What an outstanding treasure to have right here In the center of town. Beautiful trails and very well maintained. The care that goes into the Hitchcock Woods in apparent.
Hitchcock Woods are a treasure to have in Aiken. It is impeccably cared for and a beautiful retreat for walking, hiking, and riding. I never let a guest leave Aiken without a walk or ride in the Woods!
Living in Aiken for over fifteen years, and having Hitchcock Woods in the middle of town is such a blessing. 2200 acres of urban forest open to public and completely funded by HWF.
HWF does a fantastic job keeping the Aiken gem that is the Woods available for everyone to enjoy. As a former resident and equine professional, it is a massively beneficial resource, and I can’t imagine the area without it.
Hitchcock Woods has captured my heart! It is a wonderful place that I didn't know much about for years, but my feet find themselves on the trails sometimes daily now.
There are so many ways to enjoy the woods: hiking, running, and riding. You can be in there for hours and never pass the same place twice (because of the 70+ miles of trails within).
I started running in there while training for a trail race. In one workout it is possible to begin in an ecosystem that looks like SC and end in one that looks like you are in the mountains of NC. Even one area looks and feels like you have just been transported to the West.
The hills are as impressive as the flora and fauna. You can get as good of a workout as you would desire.
The squirrels, the deer, and the friendly domesticated dogs will provide abundant entertainment.
Get a map, or better yet get a watch with a return-to-home function. If you have that you can be free to get lost and explore. I highly recommend the woods for anyone who wants a light walk, a huff-n-puff hike, an energizing run, or just to find a happy place to sit and listen to the birds.
Hitchcock Woods has been so special to me thru out my life. It was my favorite place to ride my horse with my parents. When I had to make the heartbreaking decision to put my old horse down, I took him for one final ride there before we made that trip. I’m so very blessed to have this space to ride and enjoy with my family.
As the sun peeks through the canopy along Cathedral Aisle, highlighting the majesty that is Hitchcock Woods, I am instantly wrapped in memories, some comforting, some exciting, some frightening, but all creating a wondrous picture book of life in this free urban equestrian park.
Here are a few favorite memories:
For years, I’d park the trailer at Stable on the Woods where my three daughters and I would ride our Arabians to the showgrounds, close off access with a couple of long fence posts, untack, then enjoy a picnic as the horses grazed nearby. (Sorrowfully, that is no longer allowed.)
For almost 5 years, I was involved in endurance racing and would train in Hitchcock Woods. The differing terrain made for a hard yet safe workout for both horse and rider, but I can’t tell you how many hours I spent totally lost. Thank goodness for the kindness of strangers!
My children insisted that the fox squirrels were monkeys – not squirrels! Even I must admit that resemblance and you will catch me smiling in remembrance as one streaks past.
On a three-hour trail ride with close to 15 riders, the first horses awakened the ground bees, who then attacked my 7-year-old daughter’s very NEW Arabian mare. Thank goodness they both kept their heads, something for which little girls and Arabian mares are not exactly famous.
Decades before I was introduced to fox hunting, the Blessing of the Hounds was such a draw that almost yearly I made the trek with my family from Evans, Georgia (about an hour away). I’ve done this on Thanksgiving morning before cooking a sit-down dinner for 35 or so, always considering it worth it!
I have been extremely lucky to find a partner who was looking for a partner to share experiences. He introduced me to foxhunting, culminating in being a participant in the Blessing. I am truly humbled by the joy and friendships I have found “riding to the hounds”.
Hitchcock Woods is a place of memories, a place of quiet reflection, a place to make new friends, most of whom have their own special memories of this magical place. We all call Hitchcock Woods special for one reason or another. It can take your breath away even while you take a deep, cleansing breath. I bow in thanks to the Hitchcock Woods Foundation for ensuring that these woods have been, and will continue to be, meticulously maintained from my past through the future of my grandchildren.
Aiken is unique in having a natural forest in the center of it’s community for quick easy access. Specimens of longleaf pine are remnants of a virgin forest that are up to four hundred years old.
The rich history of Hitchcock Woods includes their hosting of one of America’s oldest horse shows since 1916 that draws equestrians from across the country.
The Woods are also crossed by the original 1833 roadbed of America’s first railroad: The South Carolina Railroad.
HWF is a true treasure!
Whenever we have visitors here in Aiken, the #1 place to take them is Hitchcock Woods! It is absolutely amazing that this beautiful, tranquil forest is just a stone's throw from downtown. I love to see the variety of people that enjoy the Woods -- from families with small children, to serious runners conditioning for a race, to horseback riders. Huge kudos to those who maintain Hitchcock Woods for all of us to cherish.
I stumbled upon Hitchcock Woods while looking for a hike opportunity for the homeschooling group my family belongs to. I reached out to the Hitchcock Woods Foundation to ask advice on where to go and was offered the opportunity to have the Woods Superintendent meet up with our group members for our visit. Bennett and Woods Technician, Eric, shared the history of the Woods, showed us some of the available trails, and taught us a lot about the flora and fauna of the forest. They explained the importance to planned burns to the forest ecosystem. Everyone in our group left planning to return to enjoy more of the Woods. We are thankful the Hitchcock Woods Foundation is providing the community with such an amazing resource in the community.
I have grown up enjoying the Hitchcock Woods as a place to experience the beauty of the great longleaf pine forest. The Foundation has capably managed and maintained the woods for year-round use by our community and visitors from around the world. The Woods are being preserved by the efforts and contributions of donors, volunteers and staff. It is such a unique asset to our community and, in my opinion, absolutely adds to the enjoyment and quality of life of all who have the opportunity to experience it.
During the pandemic, the Woods kept us sane and balanced. We walk every Sunday - and days in between if we can manage it. They are a gift to all of us - and I'm so grateful to those who ensure that they thrive.
Going for a walk in the Woods is a highlight of living in Aiken, for myself and my dogs! It is almost impossible to explain to someone who has not experienced it how amazing it is to have this absolute treasure in an urban community. Thank you to all that make Hitchcock Woods accessible to everyone.
My entire family walks in the woods whenever we get the chance. The trails are well groomed, and there are miles of them so one can hike for hours without repeating routes. It is truly an outstanding feature of Aiken.
Hitchcock Woods is and absolute treasure! The riding/walking trails are well maintained and easily accessible. The Woods are a beautiful and peaceful place to spend time, whether on horseback or walking!
Having access to such a well-maintained natural forest is such a gift. Being able to take a hike or riding my horse through the woods is such a privilege.
Hitchcock Woods is beautiful natural conservation that is enjoyable to all. Whether you are looking to walk your dog or run on some trails Hitchcock is a great location. It is a real historic treasure of Aiken and I always make sure to recommend it to any tourist or new people to the town!
Hitchcock Woods are the jewel of Aiken, and this from a non-equestrian long time resident. The woods are safe, well managed, historic, and beautiful with a wide variety of flora and fauna and walking trails, very dog friendly. The woods are lovely, dark and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
I grew up riding horses in Hitchcock Woods and when I moved away, I was shocked to learn that the horsey town I moved to didn’t have a Hitchcock Woods. It is a gem for wildlife, beautiful trees and wild flowers, a gift to walk and ride horses in and a nod to keeping pieces of our environment as natural as we can. That the founders were forward enough thinking to preserve this land and for Aiken and the Foundation to stay true to the purpose and keeping it wild is a testimony to good environmental practices. Every town and city should have a large park close by to remind us of our need to spend time in the out of doors and connect with nature.
Walking into Hitchcock Woods away from the numbing barrage of digital media and virtual zoom meetings - winter, spring, summer or fall, in any weather, at any time of day - restores an ancient sense of balance and humility to my spirit. Being surrounded by the curious infinite tangle of branches questing toward light, the earthy moist scent along the trail edges, the fascinating ever changing shapes and colors of leaves and lichens, the traces and scurrying sounds of resourceful woodland creatures, the decay giving way to new growth, reminds me to open my mind and senses to the signals of deep creativity and beauty that only nature can send. Hitchcock Woods has been my wonderland, sanctuary, and teacher for sixty two years.
— Linda Prior Hunley
The Hitchcock Woods are a real hidden gem. Going to the woods for a run on the weekends or after work is always a treat for me and my family. The grounds are beautifully maintained and the staff is so very friendly. Cannot wait until my next visit!
Having moved to Aiken from the north, finding Hitchcock Woods was a real treat, an oasis in the middle of the city. It has been especially beneficial during the pandemic. Whether to walk the trails, go for a run,or ride your horse, Hitchcock Woods is the perfect place. The management of the woods is commendable. From controlled burns, reintroduction of the red cockred woodpecker, horse shows and the blessing of the hounds at Thanksgiving, the Woods is truly a treasure which can be shared by all
I moved back to Aiken, SC in 2018 after a career in forestry. A friend suggested that I volunteer at Hitchcock Woods. As an avid trail runner and user of Hitchcock Woods, this made perfect sense. Give back to that which gives to you. As a volunteer, I am able to help maintain this jewel of peace and solitude. The Hitchcock Woods staff and volunteers are my new family. And I realize, as I experience the smiles and joy from the different users I encounter, that Hitchcock Woods will always give back to me more than I can ever give to it.
Hitchcock Woods is a beautiful old growth Longleaf Pine forest juxtaposed within the boundaries of the city of Aiken. Access to such an ecologically historical place in the backyards of so many can't be taken for granted. The Hitchcock Woods provide a looking glass into the past ecosystem as so few of us now know, while providing amazing viewscapes on the 70 miles of trails provided for pedestrian and equestrian usage.
The beautiful and open Hitchcock Woods is an outdoor paradise. The 70 miles of trails are maintained for equestrians, joggers, hikers and dog walkers. Hitchcock Woods is a place where you can escape to enjoy nature at its best. While Covid-19 has kept so many from their usual routines, Hitchcock Woods has remained open and provided peace and tranquility to all who have visited. To be able to get outdoors and breath the fresh air, hear the sounds of nature and perhaps see some of the many species of plants, animals and birds has truly been a gift to the many visitors.
Hitchcock Woods is an amazing organization that is an amazing steward of one of the most beautiful places on earth. They keep the Woods looking beautiful and available free of charge to equestrians and pedestrians. They promote environmental awareness thru their events and newsletters. I love volunteering to support their cause. It is a pleasure to live in Aiken near these amazing Woods and trust they will be here for generations.
The Hitchcock Woods has been a huge part of my life for a long time. I grew up in Aiken, and after a number of years elsewhere, I returned to Aiken.
My grandfather was the first chairman of the Hitchcock Woods Foundation, my parents served as trustees, and I am a trustee now.
It has been amazing to see the incredible changes to the Woods over a 60 year span. The Woods are beautifully managed now through selective thinning, prescribed burning and active caretaking. We have seen the return of the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, we have seen the proliferation of the long leaf pine ecosystem, and we have seen the continued growth of a variety of flora and fauna.
Of equal importance in this time of great uncertainty in the world, the people of Aiken have used our woods as a sanctuary, a place of serenity and peace, a place to return to time and time again to breathe fresh air and renew ones’ spirit.
I cannot think of a place that has more beauty, charm and history than Hitchcock Woods. It is one of our nation’s most special places,
Hitchcock Woods and the Foundation that supports it was the driving impetus for my husband and I to purchase a house in Aiken, SC. The joy of having a 2100 acre urban forest in our backyard is beyond compare. I hike in the woods for a hour and a half five days a week and so I believe I would be considered an avid user of this natural resource. As such, I make a point of supporting the Hitchcock Woods Foundation financially to the best of my ability by attending their fundraisers and making a yearly contribution. I feel that the Foundation is not only an excellent steward of this community oasis but also very careful and considerate in their handling of funds donated. They have tremendous support from their volunteers and a board of trustees that is passionate about securing the future, both environmentally and financially, of the Hitchcock Woods for generations to come.
One of my favorite places in Aiken is Hitchcock Woods. Being a dedicated runner, I have enjoyed running the 70+ miles of trails that are offered. It’s always such a delight to come across the beautiful array of wildlife and plants. As a child, I looked forward to watching the Foxhounds run through the woods and groups of horses trotting by. I highly recommend visiting this breathtaking foundation, if you haven’t already done so.
Hitchcock Woods is Aiken’s unique and historic “urban forest” located next to its downtown. It is privately owned and the Hitchcock Woods Foundation has the daunting task of preserving and managing its 2100 acres and miles of trails. The challenges have increased as the town of Aiken developed around the woods and now completely surrounds its borders. I have spent most of my last 30 plus years living on the woods and seeing The Foundations ongoing work.
The HWF has not only preserved the Wood’s historic equine heritage through annual events like The Historic Aiken Horse Show in the Woods and The Blessing of the Hounds but has also nurtured additional community involvement through an annual Fall Festival in the Woods that brings school children and families to the see and appreciate the Wood’s unique history and environmental importance.
The HWF continues to innovate in the area of forest management by implementing a controlled burning program to restore its Longleaf forest and successfully reintroducing the Red Cockaded Woodpecker to that environment.
But perhaps most importantly during this year’s Covid crisis, the HWF has continued to allow our community access during the pandemic. Although most of the annual events have been cancelled, “The Woods” and it’s trails have been open to people and their animals and provided a sanctuary when there was no other space available. We remain grateful.
I grew up in Aiken walking through the woods and enjoying the majesty and grandeur of the ancient long leaf pines. After I moved back to Aiken I was delighted to find the familiar woods just as amazing as it had been in my youth. The woods are a fantastic place to take your dog for a walk, wife for a picnic, or just to go be alone and clear your head. The staff is helpful and friendly. I recommend visiting Hitchcock to everyone in Aiken.
I was fortunate enough to grow up learning to ride and learning about life in one of the most beautiful and peaceful places I’ve ever known...Hitchcock Woods. When you go into the Woods, it is an escape from all of the hustle, stresses and worries we face everyday. It’s hard to believe that this hidden gem is in the heart of downtown Aiken. Our community could not have been given a greater gift well over a century ago. It is certainly a special place that I will always treasure.
I've been a regular visitor to the Hitchcock Woods for nearly five decades. Through the years, I've spent many hours exploring the miles of sandy trails both on foot and horseback while learning the history of this beautiful place. Every season offers different vistas of the spectacular long leaf pines and the wildlife that thrives there. As an artist, Hitchcock Woods has been my inspiration for numerous paintings. Most importantly, this magnificent forest preserve serves as a place for visitors to seek serenity from their busy lives and connect with nature. Hitchcock Woods is without question the crown jewel of Aiken, SC.
The Hitchcock Woods Foundation is truly the gem of Aiken, SC. As the largest privately owned urban forest in the nation, it boasts miles of trails used by pedestrians and equestrians alike. Whether you want to enjoy a stroll through blissful wooded paths or attend one of Aiken's time honored traditions such as the Show in the Woods or the Blessing of the Hounds, Hitchcock is the place to go! The management of the Foundation are dedicated to the revival of several native species and to keeping this beautiful environment accessible for everyone to enjoy.
I am not from Aiken but when I come to visit, one of my favorite places to spend time is the Hitchcock Woods. It is a hidden treasure that is unique and exceptional in every way. There are many trails filled with all types of wildlife; its beauty is evident in every season and I always enjoy the amazing environment it has to offer. It is a wonderful place to walk as it is so well maintained and welcomes everyone... it makes coming to Aiken that much more special to me!
I have been a professional within the equestrian community for over 20 years and my experience started in Hitchcock Woods. I have had the privilege to grow up in Aiken with the tuition of Fulmer International & Robert Hall, which bordered the Dibble Road entrance to the woods. The environment not only encouraged my childhood dreams, but allowed my training to pursue a professional career on the international circuit and provided one of the healthiest atmospheres for training my horses.
The Hitchcock Woods is a magical place that takes my breath away. I am an avid runner and the woods is my favorite place to run. With over 65 miles of trails I never get bored and I love to explore new routes with my dog! You never know what you may see from horses to the wildlife the woods is truly amazing!
The Foundation is wholeheartedly devoted to maintaining, preserving, protecting, and developing Hitchcock Woods! Local, regional, and national residents participate with the support of their time, talent, and finances to ensure that this spectacular treasure moves and stirs people now and for much time to come to give thanks for the beauty of the earth!