About the Event

Join us for a forest walk with John Michelotti, mycologist and founder of Catskill Fungi. In this two-hour immersive experience, John will introduce us to the fascinating world of fungi—starting with an orientation to mushroom anatomy and ecology, followed by a guided forage through Hilltown’s woods.

We’ll search for mushrooms growing on logs, leaves, and soil, using hand lenses, field guides, and apps to help identify what we find. John will help us distinguish between edible, medicinal, and poisonous varieties (don’t worry—there are no toxic-to-touch mushrooms in New York). We’ll talk about how fungi shape forest ecosystems, how they connect with plants, and how humans have historically used them for food, healing, and environmental innovation.

At the end of the walk, we’ll lay out our finds, admire their shapes and textures, and take a group photo holding our favorite mushrooms. Books and health extracts by Catskill Fungi will be available for purchase.

Afterward, join us at the pub for mushroom-inspired cocktails and mocktails made with local ingredients.

Tickets
Reserve your spot through Catskill Fungi's website (preferred) or pay at the door (cash, Venmo, PayPal, check, or card accepted). $30 per person. Space is limited, so advance booking is encouraged.

About the Instructor

John Michelotti is the founder of Catskill Fungi, offering mushroom walks, cultivation courses, health extracts, and fungi-focused art. He is the Chair of the Medicinal Mushroom Committee and a Poison Control Consultant for the North American Mycological Association. John has taught foraging safety courses in 13 states, served as President of the Mid-Hudson Mycological Association, and teaches regularly at the New York Botanical Gardens. He’s a Catskill Center “Steward of the Catskills” and a lifelong advocate for pairing with fungi to heal ourselves and our planet.