Chick of the Woods Foraging

Fall Foray and Apps with Forager Chef
2024-09-28 13:00 - 17:30 (America/Chicago) | TBD, but within 1 hour south of Mpls
Join Chick of the Woods and Forager Chef for a day of foraging fun! We will start the day with a brief chat about what mushrooms are in season and how to find and identify them, followed by a mushroom hunt searching for common edible mushrooms. Finally, we will end the day by enjoying a few appetizers prepared by Forager Chef during a social hour with other nature nerds.
Approximate Itinerary:
1:00-1:30… Welcome and brief discussion
1:30-3:15… Mushroom Hunt
3:15-3:45… Mushroom Review and Identifications
3:45-5:30… Appetizers and Social Hour

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.
*The mushroom hunt will focus on finding and identifying common, edible mushrooms – we do not know all the names of the lesser known mushrooms.
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.
For Events Involving Food:
*If you have any food restrictions, please email us to see if we can accommodate before signing up.
*Please bring your own beverages.

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.

Holiday Forest Fair
2024-12-14 10:00 - 16:00 | Mustard Seed Garden Center, 10000 Great Plains Blvd, Chaska, MN, 55318, United States
The 3rd Annual Holiday Forest Fair, hosted by Chick of the Woods, will take place on December 14 from 10 AM to 4 PM at the warm greenhouses of Mustard Seed Garden Center in Chaska, MN. This festive event is FREE and is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Please RSVP below for tickets and to be updated on any important changes to the event.

With over 35 nature-themed vendors, attendees can browse and shop for unique gifts and treasures. The event will also feature expert demonstrations from eight nature enthusiasts, including special guests ForagerChef and Sam Thayer, who will share their knowledge and passion for the outdoors. Visitors can enjoy interactive activities for all ages, delicious food and beverages, and festive photo opportunities with Santa and the Morel Man. Visit the Holiday Forest Fair Instagram Page or Facebook Event to see samples of the unique items vendors will be bringing and more information on demonstrations and events.
Activities:
35+ Nature-themed Vendors, Demonstrations, Henna Tattoos, Make Your Own Necklace, Coloring Station, Food, Beverages, and Pictures with Santa and the Morel Man

Tentative Demonstration Schedule (RSVP below for important time changes and updates):
10:15 – Salves and Tinctures – Small Town Fungi
11:00 – Harvest Your Own Hot Tottie – Earth Meets Body
11:45 – Pass the Mushrooms, Please cooking demo – Borealle
12:30 – Dry Soup Mixes with Foraged Fungi – Olena the Mushroom Lady
1:15 – Black Walnut Demo – Black Walnut Daddy
2:00 – Hickory Nuts: Facts and Uses – Sam Thayer
2:45 – Mushroom Identification – MN Mycological Society
3:30 – Making Black Walnut Ice Cream – Forager Chef

Vendors:
Sam Thayer – Author of Forager’s Harvest
Forager Chef – Author of The Forager Chef’s Book of Flora
Michael Karns – Author of Untamed Mushrooms and founder of Found Foods
Chick of the Woods – Foraging Classes, Mushroom Calendars
Elevated Spores – Mushroom Coffee
Shark Shredder – Artist and Henna
Gnarled by Nature – Minneapolis Lapidary Artist and Author of the book, The Underworld Prophecies
Morels and Memories – Morel Mushroom Hunt and Fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Disease
Black Walnut Daddy – Author of Nuts about Black Walnuts
Following Cairns – foraged tea blends, tinctures, salves
Matt’s Eye Ketchers – Metal Art Work
Matt’s Mushrooms and More – Foraged Foods
Pioneer Birchworks – Foraged and Nature-themed Jewelry
Glass Turtle Crochet – Whimsical and Mushroom Themed crocheted items
Lesbian Forager – Foraging Classes, Dried Plant and Fungi Earrings, Stickers and more
Rustic Hills Garden Co – Edible Landscaping
The Dabbler – Natural dyes, watercolors, and other foraged goodies
Earth Meets Body – Small batch herbal products
Kitschy Witchery – Oils and items using cedar berries
Small Town Fungi – mushroom items
K-Naturals – tallow products, skin care, salves, soap, herbs, teas, tinctures, greeting cards
MN Mycological Society – educational organization for the study of mushrooms
Waynes World Agates – agate art, jewelry, and more
Kately Bears – mushroom fairies artist
Cast n Camo – hunting and fishing podcast
Stephen Geffre – artist
Kilnworks by Kolleen – Pottery
Griebnik Mushroom Bags – mushroom bags
Sporesart – Mushroom spore art
Sovin – earthly dark clothing and jewelry
Tavis Mushrooms – Grow at Home Mushroom kits and more
Andersen Horticultural Library – Cool, old books about mushrooms and similar
Megan Kampa Art
Salt and Light Wellness – medicinal mushrooms and botanical wellness items
Oh Beehave – honey products, balms
Boreal Knives – hand-forged foraging knives
STEM by Seraglyn – quilted fabrics, totes, scarves, etc.
Heather Coleman – reclaimed barnwood gifts
Bonsai Acres – Bonsai trees
Infinity Crowns – crystals
Ames Farm – honey and related products
AND MORE!!

Please contact Chick of the Woods if you or someone you know would be interested in vending or conducting a demonstration. *Must be nature-themed.*

20231216_105104

Springtime Foraging Adventure
2025-04-26 13:00 - 16:30 | Big Rock Creek, 1674 WI-87, St. Croix Falls, WI, 54024, United States
Join us for a hands-on outdoor experience at Big Rock Creek in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin to spark your curiosity and build your confidence foraging for wild foods! This beginner-friendly class is perfect for those new to foraging or anyone looking to hang out with like-minded individuals that love and appreciate nature. Together, we’ll learn all about foraging safely for common, edible mushrooms and plants.
What to Expect

Interactive Education: Start with an engaging presentation discussing everything you need to know to get started foraging. We’ll discuss foraging basics, identification tips, cooking & preservation techniques, safety, technology, and more. Get hands-on with fresh examples (if available) to practice identifying key features before we head out to the forest.
Forest Exploration: Wander through the 1000 acres of woods at Big Rock Creek as we search for and harvest edible plants and mushrooms. While mushroom and plant growth varies with the environment, we can never guarantee what or how much variety will be found – although we will be hunting in an area that has been known to produce mushrooms and edible plants. The real reward is the knowledge you’ll gain to forage confidently on your own. We will also be identifying important trees along the way.
Potential Finds: Depending on the spring weather, this could be slightly early for mushrooms. However, we expect to find plants to harvest, which could include ramps, fiddleheads, watercress, nettle and more. We will hope for mushrooms like oysters, morels, pheasant back and more! It is exciting that we will be able to harvest edible plants since we are on private property! Most public land does not allow harvesting of plants.
Community and Sharing: Bring home any mushrooms or plants we find! If we find enough, we’ll divide them evenly to ensure everyone leaves with a treat.
Gear Up: Browse foraging essentials like mushroom knives, books, and other tools available for purchase.

Approximate Itinerary
1:00-2:00 – Educational Presentation
2:00-2:30 – Break & Gear Shopping
2:30-4:00 – Foraging Adventure
4:00-4:30 – Group Review & Q&A

Important Details

Who Can Join: Anyone that is able to walk slowly through the woods, over uneven terrain, for up to two hours is welcome. The event is designed for adults, but children are welcome at the same rate if they’re excited to participate.
Location: Big Rock Creek, 1674 State Highway 87 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024. Meet at the big barn.
A day pass is required for anyone that is not already camping at Big Rock Creek. These can be purchased ahead of time here.
What to Bring: Here is a list of some items to consider bringing along. Items such as mushroom knives, bags, and books will be available for purchase.
What to wear: Sturdy, close-toed footwear and long pants are recommended. If the conditions have been wet, consider waterproof footwear.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancel 72+ hours before the event for credit toward a future class.
Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Severe weather cancellations will result in a credit for future use.
A minimum number of attendees is required; refunds will be issued if the class is canceled due to low enrollment.

This is a rain or shine event—get ready for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

Reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting foraging adventure!

Springtime Foraging
2025-05-03 13:00 - 16:30 | within 40 minutes SW of Minneapolis, MN
Join us for a hands-on outdoor experience that will spark your curiosity and build your confidence foraging for wild foods! This beginner-friendly class is perfect for those new to foraging or anyone looking to hang out with like-minded individuals that love and appreciate nature. Together, we’ll learn all about foraging safely for common, edible mushrooms and plants.
What to Expect

Interactive Education: Start with an engaging presentation discussing everything you need to know to get started foraging. We’ll discuss foraging basics, identification tips, cooking & preservation techniques, safety, technology, and more. Get hands-on with fresh examples (if available) to practice identifying key features before we head out to the forest.
Forest Exploration: Wander through the woods as we search for and harvest edible mushrooms we find. While mushroom growth varies with the environment, we can never guarantee what or how much variety will be found – although we will be hunting in an area that has been known to produce mushrooms. The real reward is the knowledge you’ll gain to forage confidently on your own. We will also be identifying important trees and edible plants along the way. Please note we will not be harvesting any plants. Potential spring finds include oysters, morels, ramps, nettle, fiddleheads, and more.
Community and Sharing: Bring home any mushrooms we find! If we harvest enough mushrooms, we’ll divide them evenly to ensure everyone leaves with a treat.
Gear Up: Browse foraging essentials like mushroom knives, books, and other tools available for purchase.

Approximate Itinerary
1:00-2:00 – Educational Presentation
2:00-2:30 – Break & Gear Shopping
2:30-4:00 – Foraging Adventure
4:00-4:30 – Group Review & Q&A

Important Details

Who Can Join: Anyone that is able to walk slowly through the woods, over uneven terrain, for up to two hours is welcome. The event is designed for adults, but children are welcome at the same rate if they’re excited to participate.
Location: Sometimes the location is chosen ahead of time and included in the class description, and sometimes the location is broad (i.e., “within an hour of Minneapolis”) and chosen a day or two before class based on environmental conditions. Exact details will be emailed one day prior to the event. Please note that a parking fee or day pass may be required.
What to Bring: Here is a list of some items to consider bringing along. Items such as mushroom knives, bags, and books will be available for purchase.
What to wear: Sturdy, close-toed footwear and long pants are recommended. If the conditions have been wet, consider waterproof boots.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancel 72+ hours before the event for a credit toward a future class.
Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Severe weather cancellations will result in a credit for future use.
A minimum number of attendees is required; refunds will be issued if the class is canceled due to low enrollment.

This is a rain or shine event—get ready for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

Reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting foraging adventure!

Springtime Foraging
2025-05-10 10:00 - 13:15 | within an hour of minneapolis
Join us for a hands-on outdoor experience that will spark your curiosity and build your confidence foraging for wild foods! This beginner-friendly class is perfect for those new to foraging or anyone looking to hang out with like-minded individuals that love and appreciate nature. Together, we’ll learn all about foraging safely for common, edible mushrooms and plants.
What to Expect

Interactive Education: This is an educational event with the possibility of bringing home some mushrooms. While we would love for everyone to find some – learning, building confidence, and safety is our top priority. We will begin the day with an engaging presentation discussing everything you need to know to get started foraging. We’ll discuss foraging basics, identification tips, cooking & preservation techniques, safety, technology, and more. Get hands-on with fresh examples (if available) to practice identifying key features before we head out to the forest.
Forest Exploration: Wander through the woods discussing mushrooms and plants we find. We will be off trail, on uneven terrain, and possibly going up and down hills (while traveling at a snails pace). We will be able to harvest edible mushrooms, but we may not be able to harvest plants (depending on the location). Potential finds during May include oysters, morels, pheasant backs, ramps, nettle, fiddleheads, and much more.
Community and Sharing: If we harvest enough mushrooms, we’ll divide them evenly to ensure everyone leaves with a treat.
Gear Up: Foraging essentials like mushroom knives, books, and other tools may be available for purchase. If you are counting on purchasing something, please message us ahead of time to make sure we have what you are looking for.

Approximate Itinerary
10:00-11:00 – Educational Presentation
11:00-11:30 – Break & Gear Shopping
11:30-1:00 – Foraging Adventure
1:00-1:15 – Group Review & Q&A

Important Details

Nature is unpredictable: Plant and mushroom growth varies with the environment – we can never guarantee what or how much variety will be found. Weather may not be ideal. There will be bugs – they might be cute or they might be annoying. We recommend spraying your clothes with Permethrin to deter ticks (especially in spring).
Who Can Join: Anyone that is able to walk slowly through the woods, over uneven terrain, for up to two hours is welcome. The event is designed for adults, but children are welcome at the same rate if they’re excited to participate.
Location: Sometimes the location is chosen ahead of time and sometimes the location is broad (i.e., “within an hour of Minneapolis”) and chosen closer to the event based on environmental conditions. Exact details will be emailed at least one day prior to the event. Please note that a parking fee or day pass may be required.
What to Bring: Here is a list of some items to consider bringing along. Items such as mushroom knives, bags, and books may be available for purchase.
What to wear: Sturdy, close-toed footwear and long pants are recommended. If the conditions have been wet, consider waterproof boots.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancel 72+ hours before the event for a credit toward a future class.
Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Severe weather cancellations will result in a credit for future use.
A minimum number of attendees is required; refunds will be issued if the class is canceled due to low enrollment.

This is a rain or shine event—get ready for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

Reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting foraging adventure!

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.

Memorial Day Mushroom Hunt and Tasting
2025-05-26 13:00 - 17:30 | Big Rock Creek, 1674 WI-87, St. Croix Falls, WI, 54024, United States
Join us for a hands-on outdoor experience at Big Rock Creek in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin to spark your curiosity and build your confidence foraging for wild foods! This beginner-friendly class is perfect for those new to foraging or anyone looking to hang out with like-minded individuals that love and appreciate nature. Together, we’ll learn all about foraging safely for common, edible mushrooms.
What to Expect

Interactive Education: Start with an engaging presentation discussing everything you need to know to get started foraging. We’ll discuss foraging basics, identification tips, cooking & preservation techniques, safety, technology, and more. Get hands-on with fresh examples (if available) to practice identifying key features before we head out to the forest.
Forest Exploration: Wander through the 1000 acres of woods at Big Rock Creek as we search for and harvest edible wild mushrooms. While mushroom growth varies with the environment, we can never guarantee what or how much variety will be found – although we will be hunting in an area that has been known to produce mushrooms. The real reward is the knowledge you’ll gain to forage confidently on your own. We will also be identifying important trees along the way.
Potential Finds: Spring mushrooms like oysters, morels, pheasant back, velvet foot, and more! While we will focus our hunt on mushrooms, we will also be able to harvest edible plants since we are on private property! Most public land does not allow harvesting of plants.
Taste What We Find: A brief cooking demo and light tasting will be prepared with the mushrooms we find. Please reach out if you have dietary restrictions to see if we can accommodate.
Community and Sharing: Bring home any mushrooms or plants we find! If we find enough, we’ll divide them evenly to ensure everyone leaves with a treat.
Gear Up: Browse foraging essentials like mushroom knives, books, and other tools available for purchase.

Approximate Itinerary
1:00-2:00 – Educational Presentation
2:00-2:30 – Break & Gear Shopping
2:30-4:00 – Foraging Adventure
4:00-5:00 – Wild Mushroom Tasting
5:00-5:30 – Review & Q&A

Important Details

Who Can Join: Anyone that is able to walk slowly through the woods, over uneven terrain, for up to two hours is welcome. The event is designed for adults, but children are welcome at the same rate if they’re excited to participate.
Location: Big Rock Creek, 1674 State Highway 87 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024. Meet at the big barn.
A day pass is required for anyone that is not already camping at Big Rock Creek. These can be purchased ahead of time here.
What to Bring: Here is a list of some items to consider bringing along. Items such as mushroom knives, bags, and books will be available for purchase.
What to wear: Sturdy, close-toed footwear and long pants are recommended. If the conditions have been wet, consider waterproof footwear.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancel 72+ hours before the event for credit toward a future class.
Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Severe weather cancellations will result in a credit for future use.
A minimum number of attendees is required; refunds will be issued if the class is canceled due to low enrollment.

This is a rain or shine event—get ready for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

Reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting foraging adventure!

CHICKS ONLY!! Mushroom Hunt and Wild Mushroom Lunch
2025-07-19 11:00 - 16:00 | TBD, but within 1 hour west or northwest of Mpls
Bring your mom, grandma, daughter, sisters, aunties, nieces, girlfriends, or just yourself to this “Chicks Only” day! Even though no guys are allowed, we will be searching for “fun-gis.” We might even find an Old Man of the Woods.
Besides learning about mushrooms, we will have tons of fun and meet new friends. We will also discuss tree identification, plants, and berries we come across while we are in the woods. A delicious picnic lunch with wild mushrooms will provided.
Jodi preparing lunch at the Chicks Only hunt in 2023
Approximate Itinerary:
11:00-12:00 Educational Bit
12:00-1:00 Lunch
1:00-3:00 Mushroom Hunt
3:00-??? Review Mushrooms and Social Hour
2023 Chicks Only Lunch – Mushroom Sushi
*Exact location of the hunt will be emailed to attendees by 4pm one day prior to the hunt, but will be located within an hour of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
*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.
*We will be walking off-trail on uneven terrain.
*We are never guaranteed to find mushrooms, but I guarantee you will learn how to find them.

Summer Foraging and Tasting
2025-07-26 13:00 - 17:30 | Big Rock Creek, 1674 WI-87, St. Croix Falls, WI, 54024, United States
Join us for a hands-on outdoor experience at Big Rock Creek in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin to spark your curiosity and build your confidence foraging for wild foods! This beginner-friendly class is perfect for those new to foraging or anyone looking to hang out with like-minded individuals that love and appreciate nature. Together, we’ll learn all about foraging safely for common, edible mushrooms.
What to Expect

Interactive Education: Start with an engaging presentation discussing everything you need to know to get started foraging. We’ll discuss foraging basics, identification tips, cooking & preservation techniques, safety, technology, and more. Get hands-on with fresh examples (if available) to practice identifying key features before we head out to the forest.
Forest Exploration: Wander through the 1000 acres of woods at Big Rock Creek as we search for and harvest edible wild mushrooms and plants. While mushroom and plant growth varies with the environment, we can never guarantee what or how much variety will be found – although we will be hunting in an area that has been known to produce mushrooms. The real reward is the knowledge you’ll gain to forage confidently on your own. We will also be identifying important trees along the way.
Potential Finds: We never know what we will find, but it’s the season for mushrooms like chanterelles, boletes, chicken of the woods, and more! While we will focus our hunt on mushrooms, we will also be able to harvest edible plants or berries since we are on private property! Most public land does not allow harvesting of plants.
Taste What We Find: A brief cooking demo and light tasting will be prepared with the mushrooms we find. Please reach out if you have dietary restrictions to see if we can accommodate.
Community and Sharing: Bring home any mushrooms that we don’t cook or plants we find! If we find enough, we’ll divide them evenly to ensure everyone leaves with a treat.
Gear Up: Browse foraging essentials like mushroom knives, books, and other tools available for purchase.

Approximate Itinerary
1:00-2:00 – Educational Presentation
2:00-2:30 – Break & Gear Shopping
2:30-4:00 – Foraging Adventure
4:00-5:00 – Wild Mushroom Tasting
5:00-5:30 – Review & Q&A

Important Details

Who Can Join: Anyone that is able to walk slowly through the woods, over uneven terrain, for up to two hours is welcome. The event is designed for adults, but children are welcome at the same rate if they’re excited to participate.
Location: Big Rock Creek, 1674 State Highway 87 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024. Meet at the big barn.
A day pass is required for anyone that does not have a Big Rock membership or is not already camping at Big Rock Creek. These can be purchased ahead of time here.
What to Bring: Here is a list of some items to consider bringing along. Items such as mushroom knives, bags, and books will be available for purchase.
What to wear: Sturdy, close-toed footwear and long pants are recommended. If the conditions have been wet, consider waterproof footwear.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancel 72+ hours before the event for credit toward a future class.
Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Severe weather cancellations will result in a credit for future use.
A minimum number of attendees is required; refunds will be issued if the class is canceled due to low enrollment.

This is a rain or shine event—get ready for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

Reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting foraging adventure!

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.

Late Summer Foraging Adventure
2025-08-31 13:00 - 16:30 | Big Rock Creek, 1674 WI-87, St. Croix Falls, WI, 54024, United States
Join us for a hands-on outdoor experience at Big Rock Creek in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin to spark your curiosity and build your confidence foraging for wild mushrooms! This beginner-friendly class is perfect for those new to foraging or anyone looking to hang out with like-minded individuals that love and appreciate nature. Together, we’ll learn all about foraging safely for common, edible mushrooms.
What to Expect

Interactive Education: Start with an engaging presentation discussing everything you need to know to get started foraging. We’ll discuss foraging basics, identification tips, cooking & preservation techniques, safety, technology, and more. Get hands-on with fresh examples (if available) to practice identifying key features before we head out to the forest.
Forest Exploration: Wander through the 1000 acres of woods at Big Rock Creek as we search for and harvest mushrooms. While mushroom and plant growth varies with the environment, we can never guarantee what or how much variety will be found – although we will be hunting in an area that has been known to produce mushrooms and edible plants. The real reward is the knowledge you’ll gain to forage confidently on your own. We will also be identifying important trees along the way.
Potential Finds: Mushrooms like chicken of the woods, hen of the woods, boletes, black trumpet, oysters, and more! Although our hunt will focus on mushrooms, we will keep our eyes out for other edible species. If mushrooms happen to be sparse, we are able to harvest edible plants and berries since we are on private property! Most public land does not allow harvesting of plants.
Community and Sharing: Bring home any mushrooms or plants we find! If we find enough, we’ll divide them evenly to ensure everyone leaves with a treat.
Gear Up: Browse foraging essentials like mushroom knives, books, and other tools available for purchase.

Approximate Itinerary
1:00-2:00 – Educational Presentation
2:00-2:30 – Break & Gear Shopping
2:30-4:00 – Foraging Adventure
4:00-4:30 – Group Review & Q&A

Important Details

Who Can Join: Anyone that is able to walk slowly through the woods, over uneven terrain, for up to two hours is welcome. The event is designed for adults, but children are welcome at the same rate if they’re excited to participate.
Location: Big Rock Creek, 1674 State Highway 87 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024. Meet at the big barn.
A day pass is required for anyone that is not already camping at Big Rock Creek. These can be purchased ahead of time here.
What to Bring: Here is a list of some items to consider bringing along. Items such as mushroom knives, bags, and books will be available for purchase.
What to wear: Sturdy, close-toed footwear and long pants are recommended. If the conditions have been wet, consider waterproof footwear.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancel 72+ hours before the event for credit toward a future class.
Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Severe weather cancellations will result in a credit for future use.
A minimum number of attendees is required; refunds will be issued if the class is canceled due to low enrollment.

This is a rain or shine event—get ready for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

Reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting foraging adventure!

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

Private Mushroom Hunt
2025-09-20 12:00 - 17:00
We are on a private foraging adventure today. Interested in learning more?
We offer private foraging adventures tailored to your interests and location (Minnesota and Wisconsin). While we specialize in wild mushrooms, we’re also happy to explore edible plants, berries, nuts, and even help with tree identification. These guided experiences are perfect for individuals or groups—whether you have your own land and want to learn what’s edible right in your backyard, or you’re looking to gather a group of curious friends for an off-site foraging outing. We’ve hosted private hunts for a wide range of groups, including corporate outings for companies like Best Buy, schools such as Hennepin Technical College, homeschool kids, senior groups, bachelorette parties, and family get-togethers.
You can choose the location, or we’re happy to suggest one. After the forage, we can prepare a wild mushroom tasting using what we find, or bring along a curated selection of mushrooms to cook on-site. You’ll also get to take home everything we gather.
Pricing starts at $300 for a 3-hour session, and you can use the custom spreadsheet we created (best viewed on a computer) to estimate the cost of your own personalized adventure. Message us at in**@*************ds.com to schedule a phone call and chat about your land, your goals, and what kind of foraging experience you’re looking for.

Hen Fest
2025-09-28 10:30 - 17:00 | within an hour of minneapolis
Maitake (also known as Hen of the Woods) is a prized mushroom you’ll find in many fine dining establishments —and luckily for us, it can also be found right here in the forest each fall. With its rich, earthy flavor and versatility in the kitchen, maitake makes the perfect centerpiece for a seasonal gathering. And we have the perfect place to do just that – Big Rock Creek in St. Criox Falls Wisconsin. We’d love for you to join us in celebrating this incredible mushroom!
Your day will include:

Mushroom education and identification tips
A guided hunt for fall mushrooms
Live cooking demo
A delicious maitake-focused lunch
Creative ways to cook and preserve maitake
Happy Hour with more maitake tastings and optional cocktails

The Fabulous Chef Jodi with Borealle will be creating the dishes
and Jaime will be educating and leading the mushroom hunt.
While nature never guarantees what we’ll find, there’s a good chance you’ll head home with some valuable mushrooms—and plenty of inspiration.
Reserve your Maitake Experience today!
Spots are limited and expected to fill quickly.
Itinerary
10:30–12:15 Educational Presentation & Cooking Demo
12:15–1:30 Lunch
1:30–3:30 Mushroom Hunt
3:30-4:00 Mushroom Review
4:00–5:00 Happy Hour with maitake snacks (cocktails available for purchase)
Important Notes

This is a rain-or-shine event. In the case of severe weather, you’ll receive credit toward a future event.
A day pass is required for this location and can be purchased here.
This will be a plant-based (vegan) experience. Please email us with any food restrictions before registering so we can confirm accommodations.
Be prepared to walk off-trail on uneven terrain.
Mushroom finds are never guaranteed.
If minimum attendance isn’t met, the event may be cancelled and refunds provided.
No refunds for cancellations, but with at least one week’s notice, we will provide credit to a future event.

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.

2025 Holiday Forest Fair
2025-12-13 11:00 - 17:00 | Mustard Seed Garden Center, 10000 Great Plains Blvd, Chaska, MN, 55318, United States
The 4th Annual Holiday Forest Fair, hosted by Chick of the Woods, will take place on December 13, 2025 from 11am-5pm at the warm greenhouses (yes, they are heated) of the Mustard Seed Garden Center in Chaska, MN. This festive event is FREE and is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Please RSVP below for tickets and to be updated on the event. Many more details to come.

With 40+ nature-themed vendors, attendees can browse and shop for unique gifts and treasures. The event will also feature expert demonstrations from nature enthusiasts, including special guests Robin Greenfield, ForagerChef, Sam Thayer, and Hank Shaw who will share their knowledge and passion for the outdoors. Visitors can enjoy interactive activities for all ages, delicious food and beverages, and festive photo opportunities with Santa and the Morel Man. Visit the Holiday Forest Fair Instagram Page or Facebook Event to see samples of the unique items vendors will be bringing and more information on demonstrations and events.

Please contact Chick of the Woods if you or someone you know would be interested in vending or conducting a demonstration. *Must be nature-themed.*

Private Hunt
2026-04-24 12:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-22 12:00 - 17:00
We are on a private foraging adventure today. Interested in learning more?
We offer private foraging adventures tailored to your interests and location. While we specialize in wild mushrooms, we’re also happy to explore edible plants, berries, nuts, and even help with tree identification. These guided experiences are perfect for individuals or groups—whether you have your own land and want to learn what’s edible right in your backyard, or you’re looking to gather a group of curious friends for an off-site foraging outing. We’ve hosted private hunts for a wide range of groups, including corporate outings for companies like Best Buy, schools such as Hennepin Technical College, homeschool kids, senior groups, bachelorette parties, and family get-togethers.
You can choose the location, or we’re happy to suggest one. After the forage, we can prepare a wild mushroom tasting using what we find, or bring along a curated selection of mushrooms to cook on-site. You’ll also get to take home everything we gather.
Pricing starts at $300 for a 3-hour session, and you can use the custom spreadsheet we created (best viewed on a computer) to estimate the cost of your own personalized adventure. Message us at in**@*************ds.com to schedule a phone call and chat about your land, your goals, and what kind of foraging experience you’re looking for.

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.

Springtime Foraging Adventure
2026-05-02 13:00 - 16:30 | Big Rock Creek, 1674 WI-87, St. Croix Falls, WI, 54024, United States
Join us for a hands-on outdoor experience at Big Rock Creek in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin to spark your curiosity and build your confidence foraging for wild foods! This beginner-friendly class is perfect for those new to foraging or anyone looking to hang out with like-minded individuals that love and appreciate nature. Together, we’ll learn all about foraging safely for common, edible mushrooms and plants.
What to Expect

Interactive Education: Start with an engaging presentation discussing everything you need to know to get started foraging. We’ll discuss foraging basics, identification tips, cooking & preservation techniques, safety, technology, and more. Get hands-on with fresh examples (if available) to practice identifying key features before we head out to the forest.
Forest Exploration: Wander through a portion of the 1000 acres of woods at Big Rock Creek as we search for edible plants and mushrooms. While mushroom and plant growth varies with the environment, we can never guarantee what or how much variety will be found – although we will be hunting in an area that has been known to produce mushrooms and edible plants. The real reward is the knowledge you’ll gain to forage confidently on your own. We will also be identifying important trees along the way.
Potential Finds: Depending on the spring weather, this could be slightly early for mushrooms. However, this is the perfect time to find delicious and nutritious springtime plants to harvest, which could include ramps, fiddleheads, watercress, nettle and more. We will hope for mushrooms like oysters, morels, pheasant back and more! This class is unique from others due to the fact that we will be able to harvest edible plants since we are on private property! Most public land does not allow harvesting of plants.
Community and Sharing: Bring home any mushrooms or plants we find! If we find enough, we’ll divide them evenly to ensure everyone leaves with a treat.
Gear Up: Browse foraging essentials like mushroom knives, books, and other tools available for purchase.

Approximate Itinerary
1:00-2:00 – Educational Presentation
2:00-2:30 – Break & Gear Shopping
2:30-4:00 – Foraging Adventure
4:00-4:30 – Group Review & Q&A

Important Details

Who Can Join: Anyone that is able to walk slowly through the woods, over uneven terrain, for up to two hours is welcome. The event is designed for adults, but children are welcome at the same rate if they’re excited to participate.
Location: Big Rock Creek, 1674 State Highway 87 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024. Meet at the big barn.
A day pass is required for anyone that is not already camping at Big Rock Creek. These can be purchased ahead of time here.
What to Bring: Here is a list of some items to consider bringing along. Items such as mushroom knives, bags, and books will be available for purchase.
What to wear: Sturdy, close-toed footwear and long pants are recommended. If the conditions have been wet, consider waterproof footwear.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancel 72+ hours before the event for credit toward a future class.
Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Severe weather cancellations will result in a credit for future use.
A minimum number of attendees is required; refunds will be issued if the class is canceled due to low enrollment.

This is a rain or shine event—get ready for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

Reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting foraging adventure!

Mushroom Hunt: More Woods, Less Talk
2026-05-09 13:00 - 16:00 | within an hour of minneapolis
Ready to skip the lecture and just go have some fun in the woods? This hunt is for foragers who want to get out there, learn as they go, and enjoy the experience with fellow mushroom lovers. Think less classroom, more adventure.
We’ll kick things off with a quick seasonal rundown—what’s popping, where to look, and what might be hiding out there—then we’re hitting the trail. If we’ve got fresh finds, we’ll take a quick peek to sharpen those ID skills before heading in.
From there, it’s all about exploring, covering ground, and seeing what we can find together. We’ll be on the lookout for edible mushrooms, reading the forest, swapping tips, and maybe making a few new foraging friends along the way. If mushrooms are being shy, we’ll point out edible plants and key trees too—because it’s all connected.
This is a great fit for returning foragers or anyone who just wants to get out, learn by doing, and enjoy the hunt. Beginners are welcome—we’ll just keep things moving and learn in real time.
-We’ll keep and divvy up any mushrooms we harvest (never guaranteed)-Insights about mushrooms, plants, trees, and ecosystems along the way
-Foraging gear will be available for purchase
We’ll wrap up back at the start to check out our finds, trade stories, and answer any last questions.
Come for the mushrooms—stay for the fresh air, good vibes, and great company.

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!

Springtime Wild Mushroom Hunt and Tasting
2026-05-17 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. While we can pick the mushrooms we find, this event is not focused on filling baskets. This is an educational experience focused on teaching you how to find and identify delicious springtime mushrooms (like morels, oysters, and pheasant backs) – and the dangerous ones, too. If we pick any edible mushrooms on our hunt, we will divide them evenly and attendees can bring them home.
Once our foraging is complete, Chick of the Woods will demonstrate a simple cooking technique using springtime mushrooms, and everyone will enjoy a light tasting. If you have any dietary restrictions, please contact us at in**@*************ds.com to inquire before signing up.

This class is perfect for complete beginners and seasoned foragers looking to sharpen their skills. Never been on a mushroom hunt with Chick of the Woods? Learn more here. Wondering what you’ll need to bring? Learn more here. Chick of the Woods will also have foraging items on hand that you can purchase before the hunt, such as knives, bags, books, and more.
Highlights of the Class:

Learn foraging basics, safety tips, and mushroom identification.
Explore the woods in search of seasonal mushrooms.
Enjoy a live cooking demonstration and tasting session.
Take home a share of any mushrooms found (never guaranteed).

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.
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.
This event is geared toward adults, but children are welcome if suitable for them; all attend at the same rate.
Some locations may require a parking fee or day pass.
Attendees will receive additional information about location, what to expect, what to bring, and other logistics at least one day prior to the event.

Mushroom Hunt and Plant Foraging with optional Crawfish Boil and Live Music
2026-05-23 13:30 - 17:00 | Big Rock Creek, 1674 WI-87, St. Croix Falls, WI, 54024, United States
Join us on Me’morel weekend for springtime foraging, cajun food, and live music at beautiful Big Rock Creek! This beginner-friendly class is perfect for those new to foraging or even anyone more experienced, but looking to forage in a beautiful, private area and hang out with like-minded individuals that love and appreciate nature. Together, we’ll learn all about foraging safely for common, edible mushrooms and plants.
What to Expect

Interactive Education: Start with an engaging presentation discussing everything you need to know to get started foraging. We’ll discuss foraging basics, identification tips, cooking & preservation techniques, safety, technology, and more. Get hands-on with fresh examples to practice identifying key features before we head out to the forest.
Gear Up: Browse foraging essentials like mushroom knives, books, and other tools available for purchase.
Forest Exploration: With nearly 1000 acres of private forest, we’ll only scratch the surface as we search for and harvest edible wild mushrooms and plants. Mushroom and plant growth varies with the environment, so we can never guarantee what or how much variety will be found – but we will be hunting in an area that has been known to produce mushrooms and tasty edible plants. We will also be identifying important trees along the way.
Potential Finds: Spring mushrooms like oysters, morels, pheasant back, velvet foot, and edible plants like nettle, ramps, fiddleheads, watercress, and more! Unlike public land, we will be able to harvest edible plants we find!
Community and Sharing: Bring home any mushrooms or plants we find! If we find enough, we’ll divide them evenly to ensure everyone leaves with a treat.
Crawfish Boil and Live Music: Totally optional, but if you’re up for relaxing, eating, and chatting a bit after our forage, bring some extra money for food and drinks. This event is organized by Big Rock Creek and will be fun for the whole family! Beside food and music, there will be cocktails, face painting, bounce houses, animals to pet, and more! Read more about the event on their website. And if you’re up for making it a weekend, check out their incredible camping, glamping and cabin options.

Approximate Itinerary
1:30-2:30 – Educational Presentation
2:30-3:00 – Break & Gear Shopping
3:00-4:30 – Foraging Adventure
4:30-5:00 – Review Finds and Q&A
5:00-?? – Crawfish Boil and Live Music (optional)

Important Details

Who Can Join: Anyone that is able to walk slowly through the woods, over uneven terrain, for up to two hours is welcome. The event is designed for adults, but children are welcome at the same rate if they’re excited to participate.
Location: Big Rock Creek – 1674 State Highway 87 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024
What to Bring: Here is a list of some items to consider bringing along. Items such as mushroom knives, bags, and books will be available for purchase.
What to wear: Sturdy, close-toed footwear and long pants are recommended. If the conditions have been wet, consider waterproof footwear.
Day Pass: A day pass is required for everyone visiting Big Rock Creek and must be purchased ahead of time on their website.

Refund & Cancellation Policy

Cancel 72+ hours before the event for credit toward a future class.
Cancellations within 72 hours are not eligible for credit.
Severe weather cancellations will result in a credit for future use.
A minimum number of attendees is required; refunds will be issued if the class is canceled due to low enrollment.

This is a rain or shine event—get ready for an unforgettable day in the great outdoors.

Reserve your spot today and join us for this exciting foraging adventure!
