Hitchcock Woods, one of Aiken’s most beloved natural spaces, has officially reopened after suffer" />
BOOK A ROOM BOOK A TABLE
Close

The Recovery of Hitchcock Woods: An Update Following Hurricane Helene

January 15, 2025

Hitchcock Woods, one of Aiken’s most beloved natural spaces, has officially reopened after suffering extensive damage from Hurricane Helene! The storm dumped nearly 7 inches of rain over a 12-hour period and brought sustained winds of 90 mph—the combined force of wind and rain downed hundreds, possibly thousands, of trees across the 2,100-acre property, leaving the area’s 71 miles of iconic trails severely damaged.

Unlike the ice storm of 2014, where ice accumulation brought down limbs and branches, Helene’s impact was far more destructive. With the ground saturated by heavy rainfall, the powerful winds uprooted entire trees, while “widow makers” —branches or trees precariously leaning in the canopy—created dangerous aerial hazards.

Despite the overwhelming destruction, the Hitchcock Woods Foundation has labored to clear the trails to make the Woods accessible to the public. Under the leadership of Woods Superintendent Bennett Tucker and Executive Director Mary Katherine Philipp, the Foundation’s team worked tirelessly along with professional contractors under hazardous conditions to clear the debris.

Phase I of the restoration is now complete, with major obstacles, including fallen trees and obvious aerial hazards, cleared from the main trails. The Woods officially reopened to pedestrians and equestrians at dawn on Saturday, December 21st. This milestone marks a significant step in the ongoing recovery process, though full restoration remains a long-term effort. The storm’s effects have left widespread debris and devastated areas, especially in the bottomlands, which will require years of work to restore, including massive debris removal and replanting.

The Hitchcock Woods Foundation has expressed deep gratitude for the community’s patience and support during this challenging period. The closure of the Woods has been felt by many, as it is a cherished local treasure. As recovery continues, the Foundation is calling for continued financial support from donors to help restore the Woods to its full splendor. The generosity of the community will be crucial to ensuring the long-term health and safety of this vital resource.

“The reopening of Hitchcock Woods is a symbol of resilience—both for the Woods and the Aiken community that values them,” says Joanna Dunn Samson, the Chairman of the Hitchcock Woods Foundation. “The Hitchcock Woods is the largest, privately owned, urban forest in the country, home to 1500 acres of restored longleaf pine ecosystem and a healthy, thriving population of the federally endangered Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. We hope visitors returning to the Woods will enjoy the beauty of this extraordinary natural resource, but also remain mindful of the importance of preserving this special space for future generations.”

So, whether you’re an avid equestrian, an enthusiastic hiker, or simply someone who enjoys a walk with their dog, Hitchcock Woods is ready to welcome you back. As always, remember to stay safe, respect the boundaries, and enjoy the peace and tranquility that this remarkable place has to offer.

0 Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM