Some Points of Interest

Discover Some of Hitchcock Woods' Most Beloved Places

With more than 2,100 acres and over 70 miles of trails, Hitchcock Woods is filled with scenic landscapes, historic landmarks, and hidden natural treasures. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore a new trail, these featured points of interest are a great place to start.

Must-See Places in Hitchcock Woods

Ridge Mile Track

Mr. Hitchcock, who was the country’s leading steeplechase trainer in the 1920s, set up a track here on which he trained his young steeplechase horses. Riders still enjoy the jumps at this site today.

Chalk Cliffs

This unique geological feature derives its name from both the vertical cliffs that were formed through erosion and the kaolin (chalk) which is found on the cliff’s faces. Kaolin, a soft white clay, is used in many products including paper, rubber, paint, cosmetics, and even toothpaste.

Horse Show Ring

The ring was built by the Hitchcock family in 1916 for the inaugural Aiken Horse Show. It remains the spectacular setting of this annual horse show, our signature fundraiser and one of Aiken’s most iconic events.

Kalmia Trail

This narrow trail is abundantly lined with Kalmia latifolia (mountain laurel), which explodes with spectacular white and pink blooms from April to May. When disturbed, by pollinators or wind, the stamen employs a catapult-like mechanism which flings the pollen into the air.

Memorial Gate

Dating back to 1926, this Aiken landmark is built of brick and Italian marble. Mrs. Thomas Hastings and 20 friends erected it in memory of Francis R. Hitchcock. For many years, this was the official entrance to the Woods from Devil’s Backbone, until the Foundation acquired additional property.

Sand River

Sand River’s long history includes multiple Indian legends and folklore. It is considered an ephemeral stream, as it flows only during and shortly after rain events. Be sure to look for the “Danger: Quicksand” sign along the route which warns visitors of this hazard after heavy rains.

Tea Cottage Site

The tea cottage was built in the 1920s by Miss Celestine Eustis, aunt of Louise Hitchcock. It was here that Miss Eustis served tea to the riders after a long day’s hunt. The building burned twice and was not rebuilt after the second incident; only parts of the foundation remain.

Low Country Ride

With its white oaks draped in Spanish moss, this trail brings a feeling of South Carolina’s low country. This vegetation, which typically grows in a more humid climate, is neither Spanish nor a moss, but rather a flowering plant, although the flowers are very inconspicuous.

Cathedral Aisle

This popular trail is aptly named as the trees on both sides create the visual effect of the ribs of a gothic cathedral. The trail follows part of the Hamburg-Charleston route of a raised bed rail line built by South Carolina Railroad & Canal in 1835. Cathedral Aisle became the first rail-trail in the country to be recognized by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.

Every Trail Has a Story

These are just a few of the remarkable places waiting to be discovered throughout Hitchcock Woods. From quiet forest paths and historic landmarks to unique ecosystems and scenic overlooks, every visit offers something new to explore.

Whether you’re seeking nature, history, photography, or simply a peaceful walk, you’ll find countless reasons to return.

Find These Locations on the Trail Map

Use our interactive trail map to locate entrances, navigate the trail system, and plan your visit around the destinations that interest you most. Each point of interest is easily accessible from one or more of the Woods’ seven entrances.