The Tofino Gold Rush

I emerged from the bush, clothes soaked in rainwater and bug spray, pine needles poking out from the knit of my hat and wool sweater. I was a familiar sight these days, as hunting season has begun!

   

Over the years, we have slowly perfected the process. Hours have been spent scouring for “secret spots”, sourcing the perfect collection basket, and experimenting with various blades and brushes to find the most efficient combo. We have invested days, watching the weather for the ideal mix of sun and rain, all for the love of mushrooms.

For the first few weeks of the gold rush, people are generally tight-lipped. Early August, if you listen carefully, you’ll hear the gentle hum of Excaliburs around town. Dehydrating is a popular way for pickers to preserve small batches to savour another day.

Not only are chanterelle mushrooms delicious, they are great for your health. Known to be a high source of vitamin C, potassium and vitamin D, they are also an appetizing excuse for fresh air and exercise.

Tofino is rich with wild foraging opportunities but the thrill of mushroom picking is by far, my favourite. I had the pleasure of sharing the woods last week with avid harvester and Executive Chef, Ian Riddick. Along for the adventure, came foodies Anita Stewart of ‘Food Day Canada’ and Julie Van Rosendaal of ‘Dinner With Julie’.

As we navigated around the moss and ferns in search of golden nuggets, Chef Riddick shared his knowledge of the local area and the delicacies that make their way from the forest to his kitchen. Prepare to taste many amazing, local, seasonal ingredients on his menu this season! 

Taste the local flavours of tofino
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More Tofino 360 Stories



"Ultimate Tofino Experience"
2023-03-13
Long Beach Lodge resort is a comfortable and fun place to stay with friends and family. My husband and I stayed in a rainforest cottage with our husky for a week. We had friends join us on the weekend and my MIL came for part of the week. The Great Room restaurant served delicious food and had a great BC wine list. My MIL watched my husband surf over mimosas and brunch in the Great Room. My husband loved the surf rentals on site. The housekeeping staff was so friendly and checked-in everyday for what our needs were durign our stay. The kitchen in our cottage was well stocked and we cooked quite a few meals. We loved walking along Cox bay with our dog and relaxing at the water front fire pits on the clear nights. The private hot tub at the cottage was also a hit and housekeeping serviced the hottub everyday.
"Beautiful getaway!"
2023-03-07
We loved our stay at Long Beach Lodge! The view from our room was spectacular, the fireplace was super cozy. The service in the restaurant and hotel was outstanding! We Will definitely be back with our dog next time!
"We love Long Beach Lodge!"
2023-03-11
We have been coming since 2008, with the exception of two years during Covid. The location is unbeatable, beautiful beach, breathtaking view. The staff is wonderful, well trained and friendly. The facility is well maintained and many improvements have been made over the years. We normally come in the off season which is not so busy and the weather is variable but part of the fun. The only drawback in the off season is that many restaurants and stores in Tofino are closed for the season. But you can easily spend your time at the lodge and enjoy the many wonderful walks in Pacific Rim Park.