The southern Appalachians are world-renowned for different types of fungi, from mushrooms to lichens, and is home to more than 2,000 species. Here’s a chance to observe many kinds of fungi at higher elevations and learn how to identify them by size, shape, and color. We’ll take several short hikes and through these field explorations learn about the fungal habitats, toxicology and the important roles fungi play in the forest ecosystem. We will collect representatives of different fungal groups to study in detail. The workshop is designed for beginners, but veterans will also learn something.
Dr. Coleman McCleneghan has taught numerous fungal courses at Appalachian State University, Smoky Mountain Field School (University of Tennessee), and the Great Smoky Mountain Institute at Tremont. She has also led mushroom and lichen walks for the annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in Gatlinburg TN and led forays for the NAMA (North American Mycological Association) including affiliated clubs.
Program Itinerary
10:00 a.m. Meet at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery and Introductions
10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Indoor and Outdoor Time
– Discuss the major fungal groups and understand how we study them
– Visit a couple sites to look for mushrooms and other types of fruiting bodies
– Collect a few specimens and examine them closer in the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery
4:00 p.m. Program Concludes at the Wilson Center for Nature Discovery
Registration
This Adult Field Course costs $60 for general admission and $51 for members of Grandfather Mountain’s Bridge Club, plus tax. Attendance is limited to 15 participants. Registration opens here May 25. Purchase tickets below. Your program cost includes admission into the park, field instruction, and transportation during your program (you may drive your own vehicle to visit sites on the mountain if you would prefer). It does not include meals or lodging. Bringing a bagged lunch is recommended for most field courses, although Mildred’s Grill will be open to attendees. Tips are not accepted for field courses. However, donations to the Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation are accepted if you would like to recognize a program.
What to Bring?
Much of your time will be spent outdoors and all programs are held rain, snow or shine. You should be prepared for a variety of mountain weather conditions and temperatures. Appropriate clothing, equipment, and footwear are very important. Please bring a daypack with enough room to carry extra clothing (i.e., extra layers, rain gear), water, lunch, camera, binoculars, etc. Also bring a water bottle, sunglasses, sunscreen, portable chair or pad, field guide/notepad, hand lens and knife for close-up observations, and wax paper or paper bags (with basket or box) to wrap specimens in.
Refunds/Cancelations
The majority of Grandfather Mountain events generally sell out and have a waiting list. If you cannot attend the event that you registered for please let us know. Full refunds will be given to individuals who reach out to us at least five days before the event. This allows time for individuals on the waiting list to make accommodations to attend the event. To cancel your registration please call 828-733-2013 Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. We ask that individuals who are feeling ill stay home to ensure the health and safety of other participants and Grandfather Mountain staff. Refunds will be granted to these individuals.
More about Field Courses
Welcome to Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation’s (GMSF) Adult Field Courses! We are excited to share the unique wonders of the mountain with you. Since 2008, GMSF has aimed at creating educational programming that deepens understanding through in-depth study and field research. Our goal is to provide you with a rich experience in a particular field of study, and to also provide a safe and memorable trip to Grandfather Mountain. Read more.