The wind brushes through the grass. Looking up, the trees mask the powder blue sky and tiny rays of sunlight pierce through the leaves. Walking down the earthy path, you can hear the birds chirp, and drink in the lovely sight of the San Joaquin River as it comes into view. Woodward Park spans 300 acres of trail, ponds, and gardens, as well as being the premiere cross country course for athletes in the state of California.

Fresno is known for its blossom trails and as the “Raisin Capital of the World.” Located near the center of the state, Fresno is the fifth largest city in California and has over half a million people. Fresno is also home to Woodward Park. Hundreds of people visit this park daily to walk, run, and bike along the many trails it has to offer. The vast trails are an invitation to visitors to experience beauty in nature.

Mornings are usually filled with runners getting their daily intake of vitamin D. Throughout the day, people travel down the wooded paths. The dirt and paved paths are also a great place to take your pets or owners can let them run free at the designated areas. 

Meb Keflezighi and German Fernandez are among the famous runners who have frequented the paths of Woodward. Local greats such as CJ Albertson  and Fernando Cabada have followed the hilly trails in long runs and races. Runners from across the Central Valley and California may have taken part in the 50 different races and meets offered at the park. Some of these races include the CIF Central Section Cross Country Championships, Woodward Park Classic, Central Valley Classic, and the ASICS Clovis XC Invitational.

Events like “Boots In The Park” and the “Fresno California Water Lantern Festival” also make the park a great destination for families and friends. “Boots In The Park” includes a variety of different country singers. It’s a day full of music, line dancing, and food. This year, the country vocalists will include Sam Hunt, Jake Owen, Niko Moon and Dylan Marlowe. The event starts at 12 p.m. May 11. The Water Lantern Festival is a fun family event that visitors of the park can participate in with happiness, hope, and memories. The event will begin with doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the lanterns will launch from 8:30-9:30 p.m. May 25.

Those who wish to take a calming stroll in the park can walk or drive to the valley’s own Japanese gardens. The Shinzen Friendship Gardens are a nod to Japanese scenery and style of landscape. When the first step is taken through the wooden gate, visitors are met with the sight of the koi fish pond, the bridge, and the lake. Paths guide tourists along the different kinds of scenery. Tucked away is the Ume Grove with its own small pathways, a pond, and a waterfall. Along with walking down the paths, people can enjoy the Strides for Wellness Class and seeing the Clark Bonsai Collection. The gardens serve as a favorite place to take senior, wedding or quinceañera photos.

Whether it’s is for pictures, exercise, or a get together, Woodward Park is a noteworthy place to spend your time. With all these adventures and entertainment around the park, it is worth a visit whether you are a local or a tourist.

Gallery • 10 Photos

Madeleine Durham

The Shinzen Friendship Garden is home to some exotic animals such as peacocks.