Where to Find Fungi in Cleveland Metroparks
Quarry Loop, Bradley Woods Reservation
The lush swamp forest of Bradley Woods is an ideal spot to search high and low for mushrooms; but while you're exploring keep an eye out for slime molds and lichen too! Every season brings fresh fungi so the Quarry Loop Trail always has new species to discover.
Sulphur Springs Loop, South Chagrin Reservation
A mix of hemlock, beech, and black cherry trees make Sulphur Springs Picnic Area and this loop trail fantastic places to look for fungi. Logs and snags are host to decomposers, the creekside trail offers glimpses of fungi that love the same environment as spring ephemerals, and the mossy stand of hemlocks boasts mycorrhizal mushrooms in summer and fall.
Wildflower Loop Trail, Brecksville Reservation
After a heavy rain, check out the Wildflower Loop Trail. Keep an eye out for turkey tail fungus throughout your walk on the loop trail.
Willow Bend Picnic Area, Rocky River Reservation
The bridle trails branching off Willow Bend are ideal spots for observing colorful decomposers. As you walk, pay attention to the changing habitats and the fungi that appear as the environment (and the seasons) shift.
Buckeye Trail at Alexander Road Trailhead, Bedford Reservation
You'll need to look up to see the fungi along Sagamore Creek. Large shelf fungi can be found at the tops of the snags on the Buckeye Trail. Large, oblong holes carved out by pileated woodpeckers will let you know you're looking in the right place.
Monarch Trail, West Creek Reservation
If you're looking for a quick walk, this wetland loop has lichens galore. Stop back in the fall where Jack O'lantern mushrooms can be seen at the base of the oaks along this trail!
Towpath Trail, Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation
The Towpath Trail runs alongside of the Cuyahoga River and Ohio & Erie Canal and is adorned on each side with towering cottonwood trees. A walk along the trail will delight lovers of shelf fungus with varieties such as artist's conk and give opportunities to see giant puffballs.
Worden's Ledges Loop Trail, Hinckley Reservation
There are plenty of mushrooms in the mature forests of Hinckley Reservation. Coral fungi, named for their shape, are fun to search for amid the great spring wildflower displays. Unique historical carvings into the surrounding rock ledges make this a truly scenic spring spot.
Scenic Loop, North Chagrin Reservation
White pine, hemlock, and beech make the Scenic Loop Trail a great location to spot fungi in all seasons. As the elevation and forest composition change on this hike, you might notice the fungi species change along with them!
Oak Ridge Trail, West Creek Reservation
Just off the path on West Creek Reservation's Oak Ridge Trail, you'll find an inspiring color palette of fungi. The deep reds, browns and greens of the fungi tops are sure to get your attention. While you're looking, remember to check on the intricate bottoms of the white hexagonal-pored fungi.
