French Hike & Picnic at Wunderlich County Park

Join us for our next French Hike at the beautiful Wunderlich County Park in Woodside, California, followed by a friendly picnic! This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy nature, practice French, and share good company in a relaxed setting. The hike will be led by Thomas Celerier, who will guide the group along the scenic trails.

About Wunderlich County Park

Wunderlich County Park is a 942-acre preserve in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, managed by San Mateo County Parks. Once part of a sprawling rancho in the 1800s, the land later became a private estate complete with carriage roads and horse stables remnants of which can still be seen today. Thanks to conservation efforts, the park is now permanently protected as open space, offering both a glimpse into California’s past and a sanctuary of natural beauty.

The trails wind through a variety of landscapes: shady groves of towering redwoods and Douglas firs, oak woodlands, madrone forests, and open meadows where spring wildflowers like trillium and monkeyflower bloom. The park is also home to an abundance of wildlife. Visitors often spot black-tailed deer, foxes, and gray squirrels, while the skies are patrolled by hawks, owls, and woodpeckers. On quiet days, you may even come across wild turkeys or catch sight of a bobcat in the distance. The mix of history, vibrant plant life, and thriving wildlife makes Wunderlich a place where nature and heritage come together.

🚶 What to Expect on the Hike

• A moderate 5-mile hike on well-maintained trails, with some uphill sections.
• Opportunities to practice French while walking together—everyone is welcome, from beginners to fluent speakers.
• A picnic gathering after the hike—bring your own lunch and, if you’d like, something to share with the group.
• Guidance and a friendly atmosphere with Thomas Celerier leading the hike.

📅 Event Details

• Date: Sunday, September 14, 2025
• Meeting Time: 9:00 AM
• Departure Time: 9:30 AM sharp
• Meeting Point: Wunderlich County Park main parking lot (4040 Woodside Rd, Woodside, CA 94062)
• Hike Distance: About 5 miles
• Difficulty: Moderate—suitable for most participants, with some incline.

🎒 What to Bring

• Comfortable hiking shoes
• Water and snacks
• Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
• A light jacket or layers (temperatures vary under the trees)
• Picnic lunch and/or something to share
• Curiosity for nature and enthusiasm for French!