72 Microseasons of the Pacific Northwest

Mid-August brings the first chanterelle mushrooms (Cantharellus species) to Pacific Northwest forests, though these early fruitings are often limited until fall rains arrive. Pacific golden chanterelles (C. formosus) and other species begin appearing in coniferous forests, particularly under Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and true firs where they form mycorrhizal relationships with tree roots. These prized edible mushrooms are unmistakable with their golden-yellow color, vase-like shape, false gills (blunt ridges), and fruity apricot aroma. Early August chanterelles typically appear in moist micro-habitats like north-facing slopes, stream margins, and areas that received summer thunderstorms. The real chanterelle abundance comes with September-October rains, but these early fruiting bodies signal the approaching mushroom season and provide experienced foragers with first harvests before the crowds arrive.

Cascade huckleberries (*Vaccinium membranaceum*) are in prime season from 2,000–5,000 ft—Mt. Adams and Gifford Pinchot National Forest are major picking destinations, continuing a tradition important to Columbia Plateau tribes who harvested and dried huckleberries for winter. Pink salmon runs are at or near peak in Puget Sound (odd years). Early golden chanterelles appear after summer rains in coastal forests.