Claude François Denecourt
Claude François Denecourt (1788–1875) was a Napoleonic army veteran who made a lasting mark on the Forest of Fontainebleau, transforming it from a wild, unwelcoming place into a popular destination for walkers and nature lovers. His efforts to create safe, marked paths helped lay the foundation for modern hiking and nature tourism.
Denecourt was born in Neurey-en-Vaux in eastern France. After serving in Napoleon's army, he settled in Fontainebleau in 1832, working as a caretaker at a military barracks. When he lost his job because of his republican political views, he fell into depression. Wandering the Forest of Fontainebleau gave him comfort, and he became captivated by its beauty. This inspired him to devote his time and money to making the forest accessible to visitors.
Building the First Trails
In 1842, Denecourt began marking trails in the forest. He used blue arrows, inspired by the uniforms of Napoleon’s army, to guide walkers through what had previously been a confusing and intimidating landscape. Over the years, he built more than 150 kilometers of trails. He also added features like steps, grottos, fountains, and even a viewing tower, now called the Denecourt Tower, which offers stunning views of the forest and the surrounding area.
Denecourt didn’t just make paths; he gave character to the forest by naming rocks, trees, and viewpoints after historical, mythological, and literary figures. He created legends about these places, adding a sense of mystery and storytelling to the trails.
Sharing the Forest
Denecourt was an enthusiastic promoter of the forest. Although he had little formal education, he taught himself to read and write and published guidebooks and maps to help visitors explore the forest. His first guide came out in 1839 and quickly became popular, especially after the railway to Fontainebleau opened in 1849, making the area more accessible to tourists from Paris.
His guides provided practical advice, detailed maps, and cultural notes about the forest. Visitors often found him leading tours himself, sharing his love for the landscape and its stories.
Challenges and Recognition
Denecourt faced criticism from some artists and naturalists, who thought his work disrupted the forest's natural state. Despite this, he gained widespread support, especially from city dwellers who appreciated his efforts to make nature more accessible.
In 1855, a group of writers, including Théophile Gautier and George Sand, published a tribute to Denecourt, calling him the “Sylvain” (Forest Spirit) of Fontainebleau. His fame grew, and he continued expanding his trails until his death in 1875.
A Lasting Legacy
Denecourt’s work didn’t end with him. His trails were extended and maintained by Charles Colinet, who added another 100 kilometers, and later by Colinet’s wife Maria. Together, they ensured that Denecourt’s vision for the forest endured.
Today, the “Denecourt-Colinet” blue trails remain a popular feature of the Forest of Fontainebleau. Managed by the French forestry office and local groups, these paths are still used by thousands of hikers every year. The town of Fontainebleau also honors Denecourt with a street, a square, and a plaque on the house where he died.
Claude François Denecourt’s simple idea of marking trails has had a lasting impact, making him a pioneer of modern hiking. His trails continue to inspire and bring joy to those who walk them, ensuring his legacy lives on.
