Once you find the trail head, this is an easy-to-follow, rolling, and winding path through the woods surrounding an 1859 mansion that belonged to South Carolina Governor James Henry Hammond. From the parking area, walk back to the entrance gate, turn left inside the gate, and walk along the fence and tree line. You will curve past an open field on your left and see the mansion at a distance, before you reach the trail head sign at the edge of the woods.

On the other side, you will ascend on the trail through cool green foliage where Spanish moss dangles from the trees. As you near the end, the path widens into a sub-grade road between banks of English ivy. You will walk out of the woods past the trail entrance sign.

Walk across the grassy area, circle around the tall trees, and look for the mansion on the left. (Do not wander into the surrounding woods.) You will see the parking area just past the mansion. You may enjoy strolling around on the grounds where you will see unusual and exotic trees including Johnny’s Parasol, Scarlet Oak, and Deodar Cedar.

Be careful to avoid fire ant mounds and tick repellent is recommended during warm weather. Pets are permitted on leashes. Restrooms are available at the office.

Note: This trail was damaged by a tornado and is no longer a loop trail, it is now three separate trails (two are approximately .75-mile in length [one-way], the other is about .15 mile) and there is currently no access to the pond.

From North Augusta: Drive approximately 8 miles south on SC 125, which joins with US 278. Stay on US 278 when it separates to the left. Drive approximately 2 miles and turn right onto Hammond Road (Aiken County S­2­580). Drive .2 mile and turn right onto Redcliffe Road. The park gate is .4 mile on the right. Enter through the gate and drive to the parking area near the mansion.