If you're into learning new things and have a sense of adventure combined with an abiding fascination with the natural world, then you actually have quite a bit in common with a mycologist. Not familiar with this scientific lexicon? Well, mycology, in short, is the study of fungi and you just might enjoy one of its signature activities — mushroom hunting.

Popularized in Europe, this field of endeavor has made its way across the pond over the years and into North America. Colorado in particular offers a rich, state-wide, mushroom-laden landscape, transcending elevation, and a source of sustenance and recreation for families and individuals alike.

"Different people are fascinated by different aspects of it," explains Rob Hallock, president of the Colorado Mycological Society (CMS). "One reason I really like mushrooming is because it's very satisfying to go out and find your own food in nature." Hallock also appreciates that mushroom hunting is a relatively inexpensive hobby, with the cost of fuel for your vehicle being your largest expenditure as you scour the region.

The search for edible mushrooms is certainly a draw for many people, but as mushroom expert Chris Hardwick emphasizes, taking time out of our busy lives for some exercise and discovery is an additional benefit. "It seems like every time you go out looking for mushrooms you see something you've never seen before," says Hardwick. "S ome are really rare and I always try to increase my knowledge."

While certainly a fulfilling hobby and a great food source for many, you must exercise caution when mushroom hunting. The CMS likes to have a good time, but as evidenced by one club saying, these experts also know that when it comes to ingesting wild mushrooms, you must be careful: "There are old mushroomers and there are bold mushroomers, but you'll never find an old bold mushroomer."

Marilyn Shaw, a CMS member who specializes in toxicology and serves as a consultant for the Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center (RMPDC), points out that they take more calls on Mushrooms than any other center in the country. But she is also quick to add: "Actually, almost mushrooms aren't poisonous, which is usually a surprise to people." In fact, according to Shaw, very few are life-threatening and the mortality rate in the United States from mushroom poisonings averages less than 1.5 per year.

Statistics notwithstanding, you have to watch your step and Shaw maintains that there are a lot of myths out there when it comes to safety. "There is no rule of thumb that is reliable." Every single mushroom has a different set of characteristics that must be verified in order to properly and positively identify a mushroom.

And while books and other resources can provide a general introduction into the world of wild mushrooms, those knowledgeable in this field would strongly advise that you look to a team of experts before setting off on your own. The CMS and Pikes Peak Mycological Society, both affiliated with the North American Mycological Society, offer a great orientation into the kingdom of fungi and its associated activities.

Though you must commit to being a member to participate— principally because they want you to go out with experts to instill and encourage responsible practices — forays sponsored by these organizations are atremendous way to learn.

The mushroom season runs from April through September and the peak time is the month of August. There are a variety of mushroom fairs and festivals throughout the state that are also a great way to get started and learn from the experts.

And while the reasons for getting into mushroom hunting are many, you cannot overlook the simple aesthetic component. "I actually feel guilty sometimes," Shaw warmly confesses. "A lot mushrooms are astoundingly beautiful and amazing. Sometimes I get home from collecting and some are so gorgeous that I can hardly bring myself to cut them up and cook them. I'm not kidding!"