Door County’s forests, wetlands, and meadows are home to a remarkable diversity of fungi. From colorful shelf fungi on fallen logs to chanterelles emerging from the forest floor and the many species that form essential partnerships with trees, mushrooms are a hidden but vital part of the peninsula’s ecosystems. This week’s Summer at Crossroads theme, Mushrooms, invites visitors to discover the fascinating world of fungi and the important roles they play in the health of Door County’s natural communities.
The week begins with a Tale. At 2 pm on Monday, August 3, Door County Librarian Beth Lokken will read “Mushrooms Know: Wisdom from Our Friends the Fungi,” written by Kallie George and illustrated by Sara Gillingham. Through vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, this delightful book shares lessons that fungi can teach us: that small can be mighty, being unique is something to celebrate, and staying connected is essential. The story offers a wonderful introduction to the hidden world beneath our feet and the interconnected relationships that make nature thrive. For those unable to attend Story Time, the book will also be featured on our Trail Tales storybook walk beginning at the West Trailhead anytime throughout the week.
At 1 pm on Tuesday, August 4, Journeys with Joan will explore Glaciers to Great Lakes. Naturalist Joan Wilkie will guide participants through the story of how glacial ice shaped Wisconsin and created the Great Lakes that define Door County today. Visitors will discover how glaciers transformed the landscape, influenced local habitats, and helped create the environmental conditions that support the forests, wetlands, and ecosystems where many fungi flourish.
On Wednesday, August 5, at 1:30 pm, participants in Wandering Wednesday will join a naturalist-led hike to search for signs of fungi along the trails. August is an excellent time to observe mushrooms emerging in woodlands and along shaded pathways. Hikers may find mushrooms growing on decaying logs, nestled among mosses, or forming partnerships with tree roots beneath the forest floor. Along the way, participants will learn how fungi contribute to decomposition, nutrient cycling, and overall forest health.
The week concludes with a special Thursday Talk at 2 pm on August 6. Mike Marit of the Door Peninsula Mushroom Club will present an engaging introduction to the incredible diversity of fungi found throughout Door County. Participants will learn how to recognize common mushrooms, understand the basics of fungal life cycles, and discover how fungi interact with trees, soil, and wildlife. Mike will explain the differences between edible, toxic, and simply fascinating species while exploring why fungi are critical to nutrient recycling, forest health, and habitat stability. Drawing on his experience with the Door Peninsula Mushroom Club, he will also discuss ethical mushroom hunting, safe observation practices, and ways to begin noticing fungi in local woodlands, parks, and even backyard landscapes. This program is designed to inspire curiosity and appreciation for the often-overlooked kingdom of fungi.
Throughout the week—and year-round during open hours—visitors can also enjoy Tinkers, our self-led, hands-on activities designed for curious minds. Guests can investigate the unique structures of fungi, learn about mushroom identification, and explore the important roles fungi play in natural ecosystems.
Although mushrooms often appear only briefly above ground, they are part of a vast underground network that helps sustain life in our forests. Fungi decompose fallen leaves and wood, recycle nutrients, support plant growth through underground partnerships, and provide food for wildlife. By learning more about the mushrooms of Door County, we gain a deeper appreciation for the remarkable connections that keep our ecosystems healthy and thriving.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we can offer free programming for all ages, and our trails are open all day, every day, free of charge.
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