Our ancestors foraged to survive, but harvesting wild food became much less common after the advent of grocery stores. Fast forward to the present day: Americans want to know what’s in their food and where it’s coming from, and they’re increasingly motivated by sustainable travel. Moreover, what could be more eco-friendly than finding your own food?
It’s time to bring back picking dandelions in your backyard (they’re edible!) and foraging for raspberries in the woods. Foraging excursions in cities and the countryside provide opportunities to gather food, dine, and meet new friends.
Greens, Berries, and Mushrooms in Asheville, North Carolina
How about pairing some wild berries with your local lager? Trace the origins of the country’s first forage-to-table experience through the Asheville countryside. Localvore pioneer Alan Muskat founded the first forage-to-table company back in 1995, along with the world’s first wild foods public education program. Ever since then, interest in foraging has been growing. Catch a tour to forage alongside Muskat then drop off your finds at several Asheville restaurants where chefs will transform your bounty into one-of-a-kind dishes.
Nuts, Berries, and Mushrooms in Weyerhaeuser, Wisconsin
Having a foraging mentor is essential, especially since many common plants are poisonous, including various types of magic mushrooms. Head to the quaint town of Weyerhaeuser and meet Samuel Thayer, founder of The Forager’s Harvest. The wild food expert leads foraging classes from May to October, offering both introductory sessions and focused mushroom foraging.
Ginkgo Biloba and Persimmon in New York City, New York
Have you ever considered foraging in the Big Apple? Join “Wildman” Steve Brill in Central Park for a day of foraging with your children. Spend the day discovering native and introduced species right in the middle of the city. These tours run from March to December, and you can expect to see everything from ginkgo biloba to American persimmon.
Mushrooms, Acorns, and Onions in Ithaca, New York
Enhance your usual camping experience with glamping at Firelight Camps in the Finger Lakes region. You’ll enjoy a guided foraging hike through mesmerizing waterfall trails in Buttermilk Falls State Park, where you’ll learn to identify a variety of plants, including mushrooms and greens. Bring an inquisitive mind and a sense of adventure.
Mushrooms in Chesterfield, Missouri
While many mushrooms found in Missouri are edible, caution is necessary. It’s important to consult local experts to safely navigate the various mushroom patches in Mark Twain National Forest. Engaging with the Missouri’s Mycological Society can provide insight and knowledge about the state’s mushroom varieties.
Truffles in Willamette Valley, Oregon
The Willamette Valley is renowned for its wine country, but foraging for truffles is quickly becoming a popular activity. Guided tours allow you to hunt for these elusive delicacies alongside trained truffle-hunting dogs. Experience the thrill of finding this culinary treasure in the forests.
Seaweed in California’s Central Coast
With over 10,000 types of seaweed in the ocean, you can discover the varieties and health benefits of seaweed on a foraging tour along California’s Central Coast. Each tour incorporates a beach walk, culminating in a delicious lunch made with freshly harvested seaweed.
Mushrooms in McCloud, California
Celebrate mushrooms at the McCloud Mushroom and Music Festival, held each Memorial Day weekend. The festival features mushroom foraging, workshops, and opportunities to sample locally sourced mushroom-based delicacies, including mushroom-infused ice cream.
This article was first published on Feb 19, 2020, and updated on Apr 29, 2022.
