Each fall, the promise of edible fungi draws scores of mushroom foragers to the forest. At Fort Stevens State Park, you can join the hunt with the help of a park ranger.

Ranger Dane Osis leads a series of mushroom walks and presentations this month to teach beginners where to look and how to distinguish the edible from the poisonous. There is no cost for the walks, but the park charges a $5 day-use parking fee for those without a current camping receipt. Participants are encouraged to bring their own basket, and dress for the weather.