Please note the Difficulty Rating of each hike and choose hikes within your personal physical limits. Space is limited, so be sure to sign up early!
Big Spar Trailhead: From MT-56, turn onto Troy Mine Road (westbound; aka Asarco Mine Road). It is located between milepost 24 and 25, a few miles north of Bull Lake. After about 3 miles, turn right onto FR-7148 (gravel) and follow that for 1.5 miles. It will merge with FR-384 a half-mile before FR-384 is blacktopped. Follow FR-384 for about 2 miles to Spar Lake; the trailhead is signed, in a clearing to the left. From Troy follow Hwy 2 east for approximately 2.5 miles to Lake Creek road 384 and follow until you get to the trailhead.
Hike Description:Join Rebecca Richardson, mushroom enthusiast and FSPW as we step into the quiet, mossy world of the forest on this guided mushroom hike along the Big Spar Trail. This outing is all about slowing down and noticing the small wonders—colorful fungi, unique textures, and the hidden networks that keep the forest thriving. We’ll explore a variety of habitats along the trail, from damp creekside areas to shaded forest floor, learning how to spot different species and understand their role in the ecosystem.
Whether you’re a seasoned mushroom enthusiast or just curious about what’s growing beneath your feet, this hike offers a chance to deepen your connection to the landscape. We’ll talk about basic identification tips, ethical foraging practices, and the fascinating relationships between fungi, trees, and soil.
Expect a relaxed pace with frequent stops, a little off-trail wandering, and plenty of opportunities to look closely, ask questions, and appreciate the forest in a whole new way.
