Can’t you believe that we are still having rainy days in May? I personally love any hike after the rain. There is a specific kind of magic that settles over the Santa Cruz Mountains after rain. (Alert: Stay safe after the rain! Falling trees are a real risk on damp trails. Before you head out, read ‘Stay Safe and Keep Moving on Hiking Trails’ for essential preparation tips.)
Back in February this year, a few friends and I headed to Wunderlich County Park in Woodside to catch that “fresh-rain” feeling, and it did not disappoint. If you’re looking for a hike that feels like a deep breath for your soul, this is it.
The San Mateo County Park System
Wunderlich is a crown jewel of the San Mateo County Park System, which manages over 17,000 acres of land across 24 separate parks. These parks are a testament to the Bay Area’s commitment to preservation, offering everything from coastal bluffs to deep inland forests. Wunderlich itself is unique because it perfectly blends rugged natural beauty with a preserved “Great Estate” history.
A Layered History & Ecosystem
The 942 acres that make up Wunderlich have lived many lives. In the mid-1800s, the land was part of the Rancho de las Pulgas and was later logged for its massive redwoods to help build San Francisco. By the early 1900s, it became the “Hazeltree Farm,” owned by James Folger II (of Folgers Coffee fame), who used it as a family retreat and working ranch. In 1974, local resident Martin Wunderlich donated the land to the county for public use.
Today, the ecosystem is a vibrant mix of:
- Second-growth Redwoods: Towering trees that have reclaimed the slopes since the logging era.
- Mixed Evergreen Forest: Lush groves of Madrone (with their distinctive peeling red bark) and Tanoak.
- Open Meadows: Golden grasslands that offer a sharp contrast to the shaded canyons.
Our Hike: The Alambique Nature Trail
We chose the Alambique Nature Trail, a wide, steady climb that really shines in late winter.
The Experience:
- The Air: After the rain, the scent of bay laurel and damp earth was incredibly crisp. The air felt “heavy” in the best way possible—cool and full of oxygen.
- The Mud: Yes, the trail was definitely muddy! If you’re heading out after a storm, wear boots with good traction. Navigating the puddles just added to the adventure.
- The Wildlife & Flora: Early spring wildflowers were already starting to peek through—keep an eye out for the purple Hound’s Tongue. We were lucky enough to spot a couple of deer grazing quietly in the underbrush, and right near the trailhead, we even saw a friendly pony and a graceful egret!
- The Creek: The sound of a small creek running alongside the path was the perfect soundtrack to our climb. It’s a seasonal treat that really comes alive this time of year.
Trail Profile:
- Distance: 2.7 miles one-way (approx. 9.2 miles total for a full out-and-back to Skyline).
- Difficulty: Generally rated as Moderate.
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 819 ft for the standard segment, or over 1,800 ft for the full route to Skyline.
Permitted Uses: Hiking and equestrian use are allowed; dogs and bicycles are prohibited.
The “Carriage Room Museum”
As we were heading back to the car, we passed a sign for the Carriage Room Museum located at the historic Folger Stable. We didn’t have time to stop in, but I did some digging for our next trip!
If you want to see the beautifully restored vintage carriages and learn more about the Folger family era, here is the info:
- Operating Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
- Admission: Free. Donations to the Friends of Huddart & Wunderlich Parks are always welcome.
Final Thoughts
Wunderlich is a place where you can feel the history of the peninsula while standing under a canopy of redwoods that make the rest of the world disappear. Even when it’s muddy, the views of the South Bay from the higher elevations and the stillness of the forest make it worth every step. Pro-Tip: Parking can get tight on weekends, so try to arrive before 10:00 AM—especially during the beautiful spring months!
Please let us know if you also experienced a post-rain magic at Wunderlich County Park. Email us at info@walkbikecupertino.org.