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.
From Peak to Creek: A Full-Spectrum Mycology with Sebastian Tabibi
Step into the diverse wildlands of the San Juan Mountains with Sebastian Tabibi for a guided exploration of Telluride’s most prolific fungal habitats. This foray follows the natural flow of the landscape, beginning in the high-elevation coniferous forests—where spruce and fir dominate—before descending into the lush, bottomland riparian zones along the valley’s waterways.
Throughout the trek, Sebastian will provide a comprehensive look at each species encountered, moving beyond simple names to discuss:
1. Identity: Clear differentiation of edibility, toxins, and lookalikes. 2. Edibility: Exploring the potential edibility, toxins, or medicinal properties of each species. 3. Ecology: How fungi interact with their environment and the various roles they have in nature. 4. Phenology: Identifying the specific habitats and seasonal windows for foraging. 5. Ethnobotany: The practical, historical, and modern usages of fungi for humans.
Learn exactly when and where to find these species, how they function in the wild, and how humans can practically utilize them. We’ll finish our expedition with a Final Specimen Discussion, examining our finds at the end of the journey to better understand the profound importance of the biodiversity surrounding Telluride.
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 8:15AM. 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.
Sebastian Tabibi is a passionate amateur chef and highly regarded mycologist raising awareness on the crucial role fungi play in our ecosystem. Based in North Texas, Sebastian has been delving into the world of fungi, particularly fascinated by their medicinal properties and cataloging... Read More →
Arrive at the Lot at 8:15AM. 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.
