Mycology class and hands on mushroom workshop in Van Cortland Park

This curated walk, mycology class and hands-on learning experience offers an opportunity to explore the fascinating world of fungi with identification tips and insights from your guides. Step into a a local New York Park and discover the invisible wonder that is under your feet. You will never look at nature the same way.

Led by experienced and knowledgeable mycologists, you will not only observe up close and learn about all aspects of these fascinating organisms, like the explosive spore ejection of the Dead Man's Fingers, or the culinary cooking tips for Chicken of the Woods, but also get an introduction to the essential role fungi play in sustaining ecosystems—from enriching soil health to supporting plant life and maintaining ecological balance. The experience is designed to be both intellectually enriching and engaging, encouraging observation, reflection, and appreciation of the natural world. You will be touching, smelling and understanding fungi.

Complementing the walk, a carefully curated leanring activity invites you to engage directly with your surroundings and what we find on the walk. You will learn about important aspects of mushroom identification, how to document and differentiate between the features of some edible and poisonous species.

The walk differs from week to week. Learn more every time!

Ideal for those who appreciate nature, fungi, and meaningful experiences, this offering blends education, engagement with nature and meditative experience in an urban setting. A perfect outing for those that are stuck in the day to day city life and want a taste of the outdoors from a unique perspective without going too far.

What’s included:

• A leisurely, while information heavy and fun guided nature walk with a focus on fungi and ecological insights
• An intimate, hands-on mushroom learning activity
• Expert mycology guides providing interpretation of fungi and plants as well as personalized attention
• A mushroom tasting experience to engage your taste buds
• A digital booklet with insights and resources for continued exploration of mushrooms
• Memories and connections you create during the experience :)

IMPORTNAT INFORMATION

We meet by the entrance to the Van Cortland Park, Precise location will be sent to you upon registration.

Each session starts at 10am and lasts about 2 hours.

Please wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen or rain gear depending on the weather.

Please bring water and snack as we will not have many opportunities to purchase food or drink on the way.

There are restrooms on this walk, For your comfort please consider using the restroom before joining the walk.

Details

Where:

Van Cortland Park exact meeting point shared in advance of each event)

Duration:

2 hours total — walking, learning, and connecting

Limited to a small group for a relaxed and personal experience. Come walk, wonder, and learn — and leave feeling inspired, grounded, and a little more connected.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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