Welcome to the largest wild mushroom happening in North America, the 46th Annual Telluride Mushroom Festival! This program of the Telluride Institute, a 501c3 non-profit, offers a plethora of events ranging from foray and mushroom ID sessions, to hands-on demonstrations and lectures—all led by regionally, nationally, and internationally-known experts, (and we cannot forget the wide variety of social and cultural events offered, along with the famous Mushroom Parade!) there is plenty for everyone, every day.
On this website, you can filter your search by events, venues, presenters, etc. Each year the Mushroom Festival features many wonderful presentations on “all things fungi.” Presentations on similar topics are grouped together at the same venue so that attendees interested will be able to spend more time learning and interacting, and less time walking between venues. See who else is interested in each event and interact with our extended Mushroom Family.
This guided foray is designed to feel like stepping into a living classroom, but one where curiosity leads the way and everyone is part of the experience. Together, we will explore Telluride’s high elevation environments, searching for native mushroom species while discussing how to recognize them, where they grow, and what they are doing within the ecosystem.
Rather than a lecture, this is a collaborative walk through the forest. Questions are encouraged, observations are shared, and the goal is to learn from both the landscape and each other. Whether you are new to mycology or have spent time in the field, there is space here to engage at your own level and build on what you already know.
A unique part of this foray includes the use of a pocket sized biosonification device called the Scion. This tool allows us to listen to subtle electrical activity from fungi and surrounding plant life, offering a different way to experience the organisms we are studying. It is a moment to slow down, reflect, and connect more deeply with the environment.
Participants can expect a balance of hands on learning, open discussion, and immersive exploration. The focus is not just on identification, but on building a deeper understanding of fungi as part of a larger living system, all while enjoying the process together in the field.
Where to Meet Meet‑Up Location is a dirt lot off W HWY 145 Spur, just outside the town of Telluride, right past Butcher Creek Drive on the south side of the highway. Blue Pin marks the spot.
Arrive at the Lot at 9:15am. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together. Be Prepared Please come ready for changing mountain weather with:
Good footwear
Water and snacks
Layers or rain gear
A basket or paper bag for collecting mushrooms
All foray groups will have a First Aid–certified volunteer present. Pre‑Sign Up Online Space is limited — secure your spot online before festival week or at the Sign‑Up Tent the day before. During sign‑up, you’ll acknowledge our Release from Liability, Photo Release, and Code of Conduct.
Each person may register for one foray and one special event.
Christopher Vinci is a Colorado based field mycologist, educator, and community builder dedicated to bringing people into direct relationship with fungi through hands on learning and shared field experience. He is a graduate student at the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs... Read More →
Arrive at the Lot at 9:15am. We encourage you to arrive a little early to meet your foray leader and your fellow foragers. TMF does not provide transportation, so carpooling is encouraged to help groups stay together.
