Chick of the Woods Foraging

SOLD OUT - Morels and More Foraging and Tasting Adventure
2024-05-11 13:00 - 17:00 (America/Chicago) | within an hour of minneapolis
A fun outdoor adventure for the person interested in gaining confidence foraging for their own food. We will discuss foraging basics, safety, tips/tricks, and answer any questions and wander through the woods looking for mushrooms and edible plants. We hope to find plants like ramps, fiddlehead ferns, stinging nettle, or garlic mustard and pick mushrooms like oysters, morels, or pheasant backs. Bring home any mushrooms you find!
After the mushroom hunt, Chick of the Woods will cook up a delicious, light tasting of wild mushrooms that are in season.
Disclaimers:
*Please note that mushroom growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed. We’ll do our best to find good spots, but our goal isn’t just about gathering. It’s about learning so you can forage on your own. We’ll share the exact location and more details about the day with you at least 24 hours before the event.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit can be used towards a future event.
*The location may require a parking fee.
*If you have any food restrictions, please email us to see if we can accommodate before signing up. *Please bring your own beverages.

5-Course Wild Food Dinner and Foraging Presentation
2024-05-15 18:00 - 20:30 | MN Horse and Hunt Club, 2920 220th St E., Prior Lake, MN, 55352, United States
Enjoy a fabulous 5-course wild food dinner in the Hunters Lodge at the MN Horse and Hunt Club while Chick of the Woods teaches you how to find and identify wild, edible springtime plants and mushrooms. Chef Andy Shrader will be cooking food that Chick of the Woods has foraged specifically for this meal and will explain each course utilizing many of the species we will be discussing. The menu is TBD until the week of the event as it depends on what foraged foods were found for this meal, but it will not be vegetarian.
Tickets are $125 and must be purchased at the MN Horse and Hunt Club’s website.

Morels and More Foraging Adventure
2024-05-19 13:00 - 16:30 | within 2 hours of minneapolis
A fun outdoor adventure for the nature lover interested in gaining confidence and learning tips foraging for their own food. We will discuss foraging basics, safety, tips/tricks, and answer any questions and then wander through the woods looking for mushrooms and edible plants. We hope to see plants like ramps, fiddlehead ferns, stinging nettle, or garlic mustard and pick mushrooms like oysters, morels, velvet foot, pheasant backs or more. Bring home any mushrooms you find!
Chick of the Woods may offer a light tasting of wild mushrooms that are in season, if available. This is very likely but an email will be sent before the hunt to confirm and see if you’d like to add the tasting, which would be optional. A fee would apply and the tasting would add 1 hour of time after the hunt (ending at 5:30pm).
Disclaimers:
*Please note that mushroom growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed. We’ll do our best to find good spots, but our goal isn’t just about gathering. It’s about learning so you can forage on your own. We’ll share the exact location and more details about the day with you at least 24 hours before the event.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit can be used towards a future event.
*The class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. A refund will be provided in this scenario.
*The location may require a parking fee.
*More detailed information about location, what to expect, and what to bring will be shared with attendees at least one day prior the event.

Morels and More Weeknight Foraging
2024-05-23 17:00 - 20:00 | Prior Lake, MN, Prior Lake, United States
Join Chick of the Woods for an evening of foraging fun on private land in Prior Lake, just 30 minutes south of downtown Minneapolis. Expect a fabulous evening meeting like-minded people and foraging for edible plants and mushrooms.
We will begin the evening by discussing edible species of mushrooms and plants that are common in springtime including their look-alikes, foraging basics, safety, tools, technology, and answer any questions you may have.
After the discussion, we will head into the woods looking for and picking edible mushrooms and plants. Please note that while harvesting plants is NOT allowed on public land, this is private land so we ARE able to harvest plants, too! (Mushrooms are harvestable on certain public lands.)
Once we get back from the woods, Chick of the Woods will go over what you found to make sure everything you have is safe. We will also have a recap and discuss any new species we didn’t talk about during the presentation. You will be able to take home any mushrooms or plants that we harvest, but to avoid any sense of competition, we will be splitting our finds evenly throughout the group.
Disclaimers:
*Please note that mushroom growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed. We do our best to find good spots, but our goal isn’t just about gathering. It’s about learning so you can forage on your own. We’ll share the exact location and more details about the day with you at least 24 hours before the event.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit can be used towards a future event.

Tree Identification Class
2024-06-05 18:30 - 20:30 | Bloomington, MN, Bloomington, MN
Have you always wanted to learn how to identify trees better? Mastering your tree identification skill is useful for many reasons, but our favorite reason is to improve our ability to find mushrooms. We will not focus the evening on mushrooms, but we will mention which mushrooms are associated with the trees we find. Whatever your reason, join us to learn more about your native MN trees.
Exact location, TBD, but we will be somewhere in Bloomington, MN. It will be an easy, slow walk through the woods, staying on trail, and stopping to discuss identification of the trees we find along the way. The walk will be about 1 mile long and last approximately 2 hours.
Event will be held rain or shine, but will be postponed for severe weather. Credit will be given for a future event if cancellation is needed.

Summertime Foraging
2024-07-06 13:30 - 17:30 | Big Rock Creek, 1674 WI-87, St. Croix Falls, WI, 54024, United States
Explore the beautiful forest at Big Rock Creek and learn a lifelong skill of foraging for your own food! Tickets for this event are available at Big Rock Creek’s website for $85.
Chick of the Woods is back at Big Rock to help you gain confidence foraging for edible mushrooms, berries, and plants. Before we head out foraging, we will discuss foraging basics, safety, identifications, and answer any questions. Then we will wander into the woods looking for, discussing, and picking edible goodies that we find. After the hunt we will review what’s in your basket and discuss ways to cook your finds. Take home what you harvest! No experience necessary.
Approximate itinerary:
1:30-2:30 – Discussion
2:30-2:45 – Break
2:45-5:00 – Foraging
5:00-5:30 – Review and Questions
Disclaimers:
-The event will happen rain or shine, but in cases of severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances, class will be cancelled and you will be able to use your credit for a future event.
-We will be hiking (very slowly) off trail and through uneven terrain.
-Kids are welcome but at the same rate as adults.
-We are never guaranteed to find mushrooms.

Wild Berry Foraging 101
2024-07-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Shakopee, MN
Learn how to safely forage for wild berries! We will begin with a discussion about wild berry foraging followed by a walk through the park looking for and discussing wild edible berries along the way, as well as how to identify poisonous berries. Berries found may include wild raspberries, blackberries, mulberries, choke cherries, gooseberries, wild grapes, plums, and more. Bring home any berries you find! This class will take place outdoors, and will take place rain or shine, but will be cancelled for severe weather. The foraging location will be determined and emailed to you two days prior to class due to variation in conditions that affect berry availability. Handouts will be provided to assist you in future foraging.
This class is offered through Shakopee Community Education and you can purchase tickets ($39) through this link.

Summertime Mushroom Hunt
2024-07-27 10:00 - 13:00 | TBD, but within 1 hour south of Mpls
Explore a beautiful forest while learning a useful, fun, and lifelong skill of foraging for your own food. Chick of the Woods will help you gain confidence foraging for common, edible mushrooms. We may also discuss berries, plants, or trees we see along the way. Before we head out foraging, we will discuss foraging basics, safety, identifications, and answer any questions. Then we will wander into the woods searching for, discussing, and picking edible goodies that we find. After the hunt we will review what’s in your basket and discuss ways to cook your finds. Take home what we find. No experience necessary.
Approximate itinerary:
10:00 – Discussion
11:00 – Foraging
12:45 – Review and Questions
1:00 – Farewells
Disclaimers:
*Mushroom and plant growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*The location may require a parking fee or day pass.
*The event in geared towards adults, but if you think your child would enjoy it, they are welcome at the same rate as adults.
*The exact location and more details will be shared with you the day prior to the event, or sooner.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
*If you cancel at least 72 hours prior to the event, credit will be given towards a future event. No credit will be given for cancellations within 72 hours of the event.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit will be given to use at a future event.
*Class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. Refunds will be given in this scenario.

Fun with Fungi - Kids Event
2024-08-14 09:30 - 12:00 | Shakopee, MN
Get your kids excited about mushrooms and the outdoors this summer! We will discuss safety and learn all about mushrooms, go for a mushroom scavenger hunt, and learn how to make mushroom art. This class will take place outdoors, rain or shine, but will be cancelled for severe weather. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The class fee includes one adult and one child. Additional family members may register for an additional fee. The foraging location will be determined and emailed to you two days prior to class due to variation in growing conditions that affect mushroom availability. The location will be within 20 minutes of Shakopee, and you will be walking on uneven terrain, so please dress accordingly. Bring a basket or bag, a pocket knife, and sun and/or bug protection if you wish to use it. There is no guarantee we will find mushrooms, but we will have samples to show if that happens. You can bring home any mushrooms you find! Handouts will be provided to assist you in future foraging.
This class is offered through Shakopee Community Education and you can purchase tickets ($36) through this link.

Summertime Mushroom Hunt
2024-08-17 09:30 - 13:00 | TBD, but within 1 hour south of Mpls
Explore a beautiful forest while learning a useful, fun, and lifelong skill of foraging for your own food. Chick of the Woods will help you gain confidence foraging for common, edible mushrooms. We may also discuss berries, plants, or trees we see along the way. Before we head out foraging, we will discuss foraging basics, safety, identifications, and answer any questions. Then we will wander into the woods searching for, discussing, and picking edible goodies that we find. After the hunt we will review what’s in your basket and discuss ways to cook your finds. Take home what we find. No experience necessary.
Approximate itinerary:
9:30 – Discussion
10:30 – Break
10:45 – Foraging
12:30 – Review and Questions
1:00 – Farewells
Disclaimers:
*Mushroom and plant growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*The location may require a parking fee or day pass.
*The event in geared towards adults, but if you think your child would enjoy it, they are welcome at the same rate as adults.
*The exact location and more details will be shared with you the day prior to the event, or sooner.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
*If you cancel at least 72 hours prior to the event, credit will be given towards a future event. No credit will be given for cancellations within 72 hours of the event.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit will be given to use at a future event.
*Class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. Refunds will be given in this scenario.

Forage-To-Table Experience
2024-08-25 12:00 - 19:00 | Lake Osceola Retreat Center, 558 240th St,, Osceola, WI, 54020, United States
OVERVIEW
Join Jaime and Jess for a private foraging, cooking, and dining experience at the beautiful Lake Osceola Retreat Center. The day begins by enjoying a light lunch and beverage while learning about foraging basics, safety, and identification of edible, wild mushrooms that are in season.
After lunch, we will head into the forest while learning about and collecting ingredients for dinner which may include mushrooms, plants, berries and/or even a few goodies from the garden.

When we return from the woods, Jess will guide us in turning our harvest into a delicious dinner. This will be a hands-on learning adventure, creating dinner and beverages as a team. Preservation methods that are best suited for the mushrooms we find also be discussed. Any leftover mushrooms that are not used for dinner will be sent home with attendees.
The menu is yet to be determined and will be tailored to foraged items that are found on our foraging adventure, however all food will be both vegan and gluten-free. Please call or text Jess at 612-367-6621 before registering if you have any food sensitivities.
No experience necessary.
ITINERARY
12:00-12:30… Arrivals and Introductions
12:30-2:00… Lunch and Learn
2:00-4:00… Forage
4:00-6:00… Prepare Dinner and Beverages
6:00-7:00… Dinner and Wild Mushroom Preservation Discussion
MEET THE INSTRUCTORS

Jess is a forager, educator, and foodie extraordinaire! She is so excited to combine all of her passions and guide us in turning our harvest into a delicious meal.

Jaime (Chick of the Woods) loves spending every minute possible foraging in the woods, talking to anyone that will listen about mushrooms, and having others cook for her.
REGISTRATION
Only 12 spots available. Registration ends Wednesday, August 21 at noon.
DISCLAIMERS
*Mushroom and plant growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed. Jaime will have emergency back-up mushrooms just in case we don’t find enough for dinner.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*The event in geared towards adults, but if you think your child would enjoy it, they are welcome at the same rate as adults.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
*If you cancel at least 1 week prior to the event, credit will be given towards a future event. No credit will be given for cancellations within 1 week of the event.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit will be given to use at a future event.
*Class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. Refunds will be given in this scenario.

Fall Mushroom Hunting
2024-09-07 13:00 - 16:00 | TBD, but within 1 hour south of Mpls
This is an outdoor adventure for those interested in foraging for common wild mushrooms. We will first take about one hour to discuss foraging basics, safety, tips/tricks to successful foraging, cover species of interest, and answer any questions. Then we will wander down the trail and into the woods looking for and discussing any mushrooms we find. If we do find mushrooms, we will split them evenly with the group best we can. We will then meet back where we started to wrap up and go over what we found. No experience necessary.
Approximate Itinerary:
1-2pm: Intro and Discussion
2-3:45pm: Foraging
3:45-4pm: Review mushrooms
The exact location of the event will be emailed to attendees at least 24 hours before the event.
The event is non-refundable and the class will happen rain or shine, but in cases of severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you will be able to use your credit for a future event.

Fall Mushroom Hunting
2024-10-06 13:00 - 16:00 | TBD, but within 1 hour south of Mpls
This is an outdoor adventure for those interested in foraging for common wild mushrooms. We will first take about one hour to discuss foraging basics, safety, tips/tricks to successful foraging, cover species of interest, and answer any questions. Then we will wander down the trail and into the woods looking for and discussing any mushrooms we find. If we do find mushrooms, we will split them evenly with the group best we can. We will then meet back where we started to wrap up and go over what we found. No experience necessary.
Approximate Itinerary:
1-2pm: Intro and Discussion
2-3:45pm: Foraging
3:45-4pm: Review mushrooms
The exact location of the event will be emailed to attendees at least 24 hours before the event.
Disclaimers:
*Mushroom and plant growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*The location may require a parking fee or day pass.
*The event in geared towards adults, but if you think your child would enjoy it, they are welcome at the same rate as adults.
*The exact location and more details will be shared with you the day prior to the event, or sooner.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
*If you cancel at least 72 hours prior to the event, credit will be given towards a future event. No credit will be given for cancellations within 72 hours of the event.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit will be given to use at a future event.
*Class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. Refunds will be given in this scenario.

Late Fall Mushroom Hunting
2024-10-20 14:00 - 17:00 | 1 hour east or northeast of Mpls
Anyone wanna go for a beautiful walk in the woods before the cold sets in? This will be a fun outdoor adventure for anyone interested in learning about foraging for common, edible wild mushrooms. We will first take some time to discuss foraging basics, safety, tips/tricks to successful foraging, cover species of interest, and answer any questions. Then we will wander down the trail and into the woods looking for and discussing any mushrooms we find. We will then meet back where we started to wrap up and go over what we found. No experience necessary.
The exact location of the event will be emailed to attendees at least 24 hours before the event.
Disclaimers:
*Mushroom and plant growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*The location may require a parking fee or day pass.
*The event in geared towards adults, but if you think your child would enjoy it, they are welcome at the same rate as adults.
*The exact location and more details will be shared with you the day prior to the event, or sooner.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
*If you cancel at least 72 hours prior to the event, credit will be given towards a future event. No credit will be given for cancellations within 72 hours of the event.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit will be given to use at a future event.
*Class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. Refunds will be given in this scenario.

Spring Foraging Basics: Plants & Mushrooms Online Class
2025-04-09 18:30 - 20:30 | online
Kickstart your foraging journey with Chick of the Woods! Be prepared for spring foraging by learning to identify 3 spring mushrooms (morels, oysters, pheasant backs) and 3 wild edible plants (ramps, nettles, fiddleheads) commonly found during spring. We’ll cover essential topics like safety, look-alikes, and foraging basics to help you forage confidently on your own.
Each participant in your household needs their own ticket. Can’t make it live? All ticket holders will receive a one-week replay link and an electronic copy of the slides.
A link to join the virtual class will be sent by 4 PM on the event day.

Morel Mushroom Hunting Tips and Tricks - Online Class
2025-04-10 18:30 - 20:30
For the complete beginner or advanced morel mushroom hunter, you are sure to learn something to greatly improve your chances of finding morels in the Midwest. This in-depth online class will cover everything you need to know including where to look, when to look, identification, look-alikes, foraging basics, safety, cooking, preservation methods, tree identification, apps, websites, and tips and tricks to help you find morels. We will focus on common (yellows, blondes, Morchella americana) morels and touch on half-free and black morels.
If more than one person will be watching in your household, please purchase one ticket per person. If you are not able to attend at the scheduled time, all ticket holders will be provided a link to view the presentation for one week after the class.
A link for the virtual class will be emailed to attendees by 4pm on the day of the event.

Tree Identification Class
2025-04-27 14:00 - 15:45 | within 25 minutes west or SW of Mpls
Have you ever wanted to improve your ability to identify native trees? Tree identification is not only a valuable skill for nature enthusiasts but can also significantly enhance your ability to find mushrooms—a favorite reason for many of us! In this class, Chick of the Woods will guide you through several methods of tree identification, going beyond just looking at leaves.
This course combines online and in-person learning for a comprehensive experience. A few days before the in-person session, you’ll receive an exclusive video prepared by Chick of the Woods. The video covers the basics of tree identification and includes tips for identifying five key trees known to host great mushrooms: oak, elm, box elder, cottonwood, and ash. You can watch the video at your own pace, giving you a solid foundation before we meet in person.
The in-person session will be a relaxed walk through the woods, within 25 minutes west or southwest of Minneapolis (exact location to be announced). This easy, slow-paced walk will stay on trails as we observe and discuss tree identification in real-time. The walk will last approximately 1.5–2 hours.
This event will be held rain or shine, with adjustments for severe weather. If cancellation is necessary, credits will be provided for a future event.
Join us for this unique opportunity to connect with nature and sharpen your tree identification skills with Chick of the Woods!

Springtime Wild Mushroom Hunt and Tasting
2025-05-18 13:00 - 18:00 | TBD, but within 1 hour south of Mpls
Join Chick of the Woods for a Fungi Adventure!
Dive into the fascinating world of mushroom foraging with this hands-on class designed to boost your confidence and skills. We’ll begin with an interactive discussion covering the basics of foraging, safety guidelines, helpful tips, and tricks. Fresh, seasonal mushrooms will be on hand for you to see, touch, and learn how to identify key varieties before heading out on our adventure.
After the introduction, we’ll wander into the woods to search for mushrooms and edible plants. While we can’t guarantee a bounty, this is an educational experience focused on teaching you how to spot and identify delicious spring mushrooms like morels, oysters, velvet foot, pheasant backs, and more. We’ll visit a location known for past mushroom finds, giving you the tools to hunt confidently on your own in the future.
Once our foraging is complete, we’ll gather to review our finds. Chick of the Woods will demonstrate a simple cooking technique using the mushrooms we collect, and everyone will enjoy a light tasting. If you have any dietary restrictions, please contact us to inquire before signing up. Any leftover mushrooms will be shared among attendees to take home!
This class is perfect for beginners and seasoned foragers looking to sharpen their skills.
Highlights of the Class:

Learn foraging basics, safety tips, and mushroom identification.
Explore the woods in search of seasonal mushrooms and edible plants.
Enjoy a live cooking demonstration and tasting session.
Take home a share of any mushrooms found.

Note: While we’ll explore a location where morels and other spring mushrooms are often found, we cannot guarantee specific finds. This is a learning experience designed to prepare you for successful foraging in the future.
Important Information:

Mushroom growth depends on environmental conditions, so while we’ll do our best to visit promising spots, there’s no guarantee of finding mushrooms. The focus of this experience is education—equipping you with the knowledge to forage confidently on your own.
Details about the location and event will be shared with participants at least 24 hours before the class.
Be prepared to walk off-trail and navigate uneven terrain.
This is a rain-or-shine event. However, in the case of severe weather, the event will be canceled, and you’ll receive a credit to use for a future class.
A minimum number of attendees is required for the class. If it is canceled due to low enrollment, a full refund will be provided.
Some locations may require a parking fee.
Attendees will receive detailed information about what to expect, what to bring, and other logistics at least one day prior to the event.

Family Foraging
2025-08-03 14:00 - 16:30 | 45 minutes north of Minneapolis
TRIP DETAILS + INFORMATION
Join Chick of the Woods for a fun outdoor adventure that will get your child outside, and interested in going outside more often! Mushroom hunting is like a scavenger hunt, and kids love finding cool mushrooms in the woods. Wouldn’t it be nice to know what some of those mushrooms are, and if they are safe? With just a little proper education, mushrooms are NOT something to be afraid of and Chick of the Woods will be sure to address any concerns you may have.
What will the day look like?
Before embarking on the mushroom hunt, we will learn about safety, mushroom features, a few of the common edible mushrooms we might run into, as well as some of the poisonous ones to steer clear of. We will head out into the woods looking for and collecting mushrooms while filling out a scavenger hunt list. We will discuss mushrooms as we find them, and then again at the end of our foraging adventure. The purpose of this adventure is to get familiar with observing different features of fungi – this is not an edible mushroom hunt even though you are welcome to keep any edible mushrooms we find. After our hunt, kids will partake in a mushroom art project.
Where will we go mushroom hunting?
The exact location and more details of the event will be emailed to attendees at least 24 hours before the event, but it will be held approximately 45 – 60 minutes North or Northwest of Minneapolis.
What will you need?
Bring a basket or cloth bag to put mushrooms in. An Easter basket works great! A knife is also required for cutting the mushrooms, but of course the adult can operate the knife if the child is not comfortable with a knife. Wear clothes suitable for walking through the woods (long pants and close-toed shoes). A more thorough list of suggested items and details will be emailed to you closer to the day of the event.
Disclaimers:
-The event will happen rain or shine. In cases of severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances, the class will be canceled and you can use your credit for a future event with Chick of the Woods. Refunds are not available.
-We always hope to find mushrooms, but it is never guaranteed. We will go somewhere mushrooms have been found in the past, however, weather plays a huge role in the abundance and diversity we will find.

Summertime Mushroom Hunt
2025-08-16 14:00 - 17:30 | TBD, but within 1 hour west or northwest of Mpls
Explore a beautiful forest while learning a useful, fun, and lifelong skill of foraging for your own food. Chick of the Woods will help you gain confidence foraging for common, edible mushrooms. We may also discuss berries, plants, or trees we see along the way. Before we head out foraging, we will discuss foraging basics, safety, identifications, and answer any questions. Then we will wander into the woods searching for, discussing, and picking edible mushrooms that we find. After the hunt we will review what’s in your basket and discuss ways to cook your finds. Take home what we find. No experience necessary.
Approximate itinerary:
2:00-3:00 – Educational Foraging Discussion
3:00-3:30 – Break and Gear-Up
3:30-5:00 – Foraging
5:00-5:30 – Review and Questions
5:30 till ?? Optional and on your own – Pack a picnic dinner and stay as long as you like socializing with your new nerdy nature friends!
We will have some foraging gear available for purchase, including bags, knives, books, and other products we love. You will have a chance to purchase these during the break or after class.
Disclaimers:
*Mushroom and plant growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*The location may require a parking fee or day pass.
*The event in geared towards adults, but if you think your child would enjoy it, they are welcome at the same rate as adults.
*The exact location and more details will be shared with you the day prior to the event, or sooner.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
*No refunds. If you cancel at least 72 hours prior to the event, credit will be given towards a future event. No credit will be given for cancellations within 72 hours of the event.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit will be given to use at a future event.
*Class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. Refunds will be given in this scenario.

Foraging Event for Kids
2025-08-20 09:30 - 12:00 | TBD, but within 1 hour south of Mpls
TRIP DETAILS + INFORMATION
Join Chick of the Woods for a fun outdoor adventure that will get your child outside, and interested in going outside more often! Mushroom hunting is like a scavenger hunt, and kids love finding cool mushrooms in the woods. Wouldn’t it be nice to know what some of those mushrooms are, and if they are safe? With just a little proper education, mushrooms are NOT something to be afraid of and Chick of the Woods will be sure to address any concerns you may have.
What will the day look like?
Before embarking on the mushroom hunt, we will learn about safety, mushroom features, a few of the common edible mushrooms we might run into, as well as some of the poisonous ones to steer clear of. We will head out into the woods looking for and collecting mushrooms while filling out a scavenger hunt list. We will discuss mushrooms as we find them, and then again at the end of our foraging adventure. After our hunt, kids will partake in a mushroom art project.
Where will we go mushroom hunting?
Conditions for mushrooms are dependent on several factors so the exact location and more details of the event will be emailed to attendees at least 24 hours before the event, but it will be held within 1 hour of Minneapolis.
What will you need?
Bring a basket or cloth bag to put mushrooms in. An Easter basket works great! A knife is also required for cutting the mushrooms, but of course the adult can operate the knife if the child is not comfortable with a knife. Wear clothes suitable for walking through the woods (long pants and close-toed shoes). A more thorough list of suggested items and details will be emailed to you closer to the day of the event.
Disclaimers:
-The event will happen rain or shine. In cases of severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances, the class will be canceled and you can use your credit for a future event with Chick of the Woods. Refunds are not available.
-We always hope to find lots of mushrooms and plants, but it is never guaranteed. However, we do guarantee you will learn and increase your confidence foraging.

Scouting for Mushrooms
2025-09-07 14:30 - 16:30 | Near Stillwater, MN, Stillwater, MN, United States
This is a different version of my normal events. It’s shorter and the price is lower. I’m skipping the intro educational talk and I’m NOT pre-scouting the area. We will be going to a forest I’m not very familiar with. I have no idea what mushrooms will be there or if there will be any at all (extremely unlikely). Just come exploring with me! Learn what I look for when I hunt in a new area. We will spend two hours in the woods looking for common, edible mushrooms and identifying trees important to those mushrooms. Take home what you find. Bring a basket or bag and a knife. No experience necessary.
The exact location of the event will be emailed to attendees at least 24 hours before the event.
Disclaimers:
*Mushroom and plant growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*The location may require a parking fee or day pass.
*The event in geared towards adults, but if you think your child would enjoy it, they are welcome at the same rate as adults.
*The exact location and more details will be shared with you the day prior to the event, or sooner.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
*If you cancel at least 72 hours prior to the event, credit will be given towards a future event. No credit will be given for cancellations within 72 hours of the event.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit will be given to use at a future event.
*Class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. Refunds will be given in this scenario.

Fall Mushroom Hunting
2025-09-14 13:00 - 16:00 | TBD, but within 1 hour west or northwest of Mpls

Last Chance Mushroom Hunt
2025-10-05 13:00 - 16:00 | within an hour of minneapolis
The last mushroom foraging class of the year! An outdoor adventure for those interested in learning how to forage for wild, edible mushrooms. We will first take about one hour to discuss foraging basics, safety, tips/tricks to successful foraging, cover species of interest, and answer any questions. Then we will wander down the trail and into the woods looking for, discussing, and harvesting any edible mushrooms we find. We will meet back where we started to wrap up and go over what we found and answer any last minute questions. No experience necessary. We will split any mushrooms we find evenly with the group.
Approximate Itinerary:
1-2pm: Intro and Discussion
2-3:45pm: Foraging
3:45-4pm: Review mushrooms
The exact location of the event will be emailed to attendees at least 24 hours before the event.
Disclaimers:
*Mushroom and plant growth is subject to various environmental factors, and their presence during our foraging adventures cannot be guaranteed.
*We will be walking off-trail and on uneven terrain.
*The location may require a parking fee or day pass.
*The event in geared towards adults, but if you think your child would enjoy it, they are welcome at the same rate as adults.
*The exact location and more details will be shared with you the day prior to the event, or sooner.
Refund and Cancellation Policy:
*If you cancel at least 72 hours prior to the event, credit will be given towards a future event. No credit will be given for cancellations within 72 hours of the event.
*This is a rain or shine event, but if conditions are severe, the hunt will be cancelled and credit will be given to use at a future event.
*Class may be cancelled if minimum attendance is not met. Refunds will be given in this scenario.

Who's That Tree?
2025-10-19 14:00 - 16:00 | Theodore Wirth Park, 3200 Glenwood Ave, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55405
Find More Mushrooms by Knowing Your Trees
Ever spend hours wandering the woods unsure where to look for mushrooms? Learning tree identification solves that problem. When you know which trees host your favorite edible mushrooms, you stop guessing and start finding.
In this class, Chick of the Woods will teach simple, practical tree identification techniques that go beyond leaf shape, with a focus on trees that support choice edible mushrooms. You’ll learn what trees deserve your attention and which ones you can pass by.
A few days before the walk, you’ll receive an exclusive video covering tree ID basics and five key mushroom-hosting trees: oak, elm, box elder, cottonwood, and ash. This prep work means less lecture and more hands-on learning in the woods.
The in-person portion is a fun, guided walk on established trails (about 1.5–2 hours), practicing real-time tree identification and connecting trees to the mushrooms that grow with them.
You’ll leave feeling more confident, capable, and equipped to forage smarter for years to come—and it makes a thoughtful, well-loved gift for nature lovers.
Who this class is for

Beginner and intermediate mushroom foragers
Nature lovers curious about trees and fungi
Gardeners and outdoor educators
Anyone tired of guessing where mushrooms grow
A unique, practical gift for the outdoorsy person in your life

Held rain or shine, with weather adjustments as needed. If canceled, credits will be provided for a future event.
Join Chick of the Woods and start seeing the forest the way mushrooms do.
Disclaimers & Policies

This is an outdoor educational event; participants attend at their own risk. Terrain may be uneven, include roots, mud, or off-trail walking. Wear appropriate footwear and weather-ready clothing.
Mushroom and plant growth depends on environmental conditions; sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Some locations may require a parking fee or day-use pass.
This event is geared toward adults, but children are welcome if suitable for them; all attend at the same rate.
Exact meeting location and final details will be shared the day before the event (or sooner).
Photographs or video may be taken for educational or promotional use; notify us if you prefer not to be included.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancellations ≥72 hours before the event receive a credit toward a future class. Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Rain or shine; if severe conditions make the event unsafe, it will be canceled and a credit issued.
If minimum attendance is not met, the event may be canceled and full refunds provided.

Know the Trees - Find the Mushrooms
2026-04-22 18:00 - 19:30 | Theodore Wirth Park, 3200 Glenwood Ave, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55405
Find More Mushrooms by Knowing Your Trees
Ever spend hours wandering the woods unsure where to look for mushrooms? Learning tree identification solves that problem. When you know which trees host your favorite edible mushrooms, you stop guessing and start finding.
In this class, Chick of the Woods will teach simple, practical tree identification techniques that go beyond leaf shape, with a focus on trees that host choice edible mushrooms. You’ll learn what trees deserve your attention and which ones you can pass by.
A few days before the walk, you’ll receive an exclusive video covering tree ID basics and key mushroom-loving trees. This prep work means less lecture and more hands-on learning in the woods.
The in-person portion is a fun, guided walk on established trails, practicing real-time tree identification and connecting trees to the mushrooms that grow with them.
You’ll leave feeling more confident, capable, and equipped to forage smarter for years to come.
Who this class is for

Beginner and intermediate mushroom foragers
Nature lovers curious about trees and fungi
Gardeners and outdoor educators
Anyone tired of guessing where mushrooms grow
A unique, practical gift for the outdoorsy person in your life

A Walk in the Park - Mni Owe Sni (Coldwater Spring)
2026-04-26 14:30 - 16:00 | Mni Owe Sni (Coldwater Spring), 5601 Minnehaha Park Dr S, MN, 55417, United States
This “Walk in the Park” series is all about getting outside, exploring new places, and “seeing what we see” along the trail. These walks are meant to be casual, curious, affordable, easy, approachable, and social—perfect for beginners, experts, or anyone who simply wants an excuse to spend a little time in nature with like-minded people.
The location will vary each time and may even be somewhere I’ve never visited before. Think of it as an open invitation to come explore together.
This isn’t a traditional foraging class or guided hunt. We won’t scout the location ahead of time, we’ll stick to the trails, and we may visit locations where foraging isn’t allowed—so there’s nothing to bring and no expectations about what we’ll find. The only thing we’ll be taking is pictures.
We’ll simply walk slowly and stop along the way to observe what’s growing, talk about mushrooms and wild plants, practice identifying trees – and address any other surprises nature reveals to us. I certainly don’t know everything – these walks are about learning together and sharing observations. Bugs, birds, flowers, and basically anything in nature is allowable for discussion!
Trail conditions will vary and may include grass, dirt, rocks, mud, or pavement, and could be flat or hilly. Participants should be comfortable being outside and walking and/or standing for up to 1.5 hours. Some walks will be accessible, but please reach out if you have questions about terrain.
The location listed in the description is approximate – the exact meeting point will be emailed to attendees at least one day in advance. (If you have a location suggestion for a future walk, please let me know!)
Parking fee may apply.

Morel Mushroom Hunting - Online Class
2026-04-30 18:30 - 20:30
Find More Morels—With Confidence
Morel season is just beginning! Take this class and apply your knowledge immediately.
Whether you’re brand new to morel hunting or have been searching for years with mixed success, this in-depth online morel mushroom class is designed to dramatically improve your chances of finding morels in the Midwest.
This class will stop you from wandering the woods without knowing where, when, or why morels grow where they do. By the end of this class, you’ll replace guesswork with proven strategies.
Most importantly, you’ll gain the confidence to identify morels correctly, avoid dangerous look-alikes, and forage safely and ethically.
What You’ll Learn

Where and when to find morels in the Midwest
How to identify true morels vs. look-alikes
Foraging basics and safety best practices
Tree identification and habitat clues
Helpful apps, websites, and tools
Cooking and preservation methods
Insider tips and tricks to increase your success year after year

We’ll focus primarily on common morels (yellows/blondes, Morchella americana), with an introduction to half-free and black morels.
Who Is This Class For?

Complete beginners who want to start foraging safely and confidently
Morel hunters who want tips to find more morels
Gardeners, hikers, and nature lovers curious about edible mushrooms
Foragers who want to better understand tree associations
Anyone who wants to spend less time searching and more time finding

Can’t Attend Live or Afraid You’ll Forget the Information?
No problem. All ticket holders receive access to the class recording for one full week, so you can watch (or rewatch) on your own schedule. Everyone will also receive a free, downloadable “tips and tricks” pdf for finding morel mushrooms.
Guarantee
If, after attending the class or watching the recording, you don’t feel you gained enough practical value to improve your morel hunting, simply reach out and we’ll refund your ticket—no hard feelings and no questions asked.
A Thoughtful Gift for Nature Lovers
This class makes a wonderful gift for mushroom lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, gardeners, and curious beginners.
**Registration closes at 4:00 PM on the day of the event. A link to the virtual class and the downloadable “tips and tricks” pdf will be emailed to attendees at that time.

A Walk in the Park - Eden Prairie
2026-05-12 18:00 - 19:30 | Eden Prairie, MN, Eden Prairie, United States
This “Walk in the Park” series is all about getting outside, exploring new places, and “seeing what we can eat” along the trail. These walks are meant to be casual, curious, affordable, educational, and social—perfect for anyone who simply wants an excuse to learn about edible wild foods and spend time with like-minded people.
The location will vary each time and may even be somewhere I’ve never visited before. Think of it as an open invitation to come explore together.
This isn’t a traditional foraging class or guided hunt. We won’t scout the location ahead of time, we’ll stick to the trails, and we may visit locations where foraging isn’t allowed—so there are no expectations, nothing to bring besides your curiosity, and nothing to take but pictures.
We’ll simply walk slowly and observe what’s growing, hoping to find edible mushrooms and plants along the way. Trees will be identified and we’ll stop for any other surprises nature reveals to us along the way. I certainly don’t know everything – these walks are about learning together and sharing observations. Bugs, birds, flowers, and basically anything in nature is allowable for discussion!
Trail conditions will vary and may include grass, dirt, rocks, mud, or pavement, and could be flat or hilly. Participants should be comfortable being outside and walking and/or standing for up to 1.5 hours. Some walks will be accessible, but please reach out if you have questions about terrain.
The location listed in the description is approximate – the exact meeting point will be emailed to attendees at least one day in advance. (If you have a location suggestion for a future walk, please let me know!)
Parking fee may apply.

Discover Foraging: Mushrooms, Plants & Pizza
2026-05-13 17:30 - 19:30 | Pickled Pig Pub, 205 Broadway Street S, Jordan, MN, 55352, United States
Chick of the Woods will lead an engaging presentation on edible mushrooms and spring plants that are popping up this time of year, all while enjoying wild mushroom pizza, crispy truffle tots, and a refreshing beverage.
Are you curious about foraging but a little nervous? Maybe you’ve thought, “What if I pick the wrong mushroom and die?” If that thought has crossed your mind, this class is definitely for you. We’ll focus on common, beginner-friendly mushrooms and plants that are easy to recognize and a great place to start. You’ll also get to see fresh specimens up close so you can learn what to look for in the real world.
We’ll gather in a private room at the Pickled Pig Pub in Jordan, MN (about 20 minutes SW of Bloomington), where wild mushroom pizza and truffle tots are included with your class. Drinks are on your own—but you can take advantage of 2-for-1 drinks until 6:30pm.
Come hungry, bring your curiosity, and get ready to discover the delicious things hiding in the woods this spring.
Not a mushroom fan? No worries—we can order some non-mushroom pizza too!
