Most white settlers here in the Smokies region avoided mushrooms like the plague. This was because their ancestors arriving here in America had found and ingested mushrooms that were deadly look-a-likes for species they had safely eaten in Europe. On the other hand, many Cherokees still gather and eat mushrooms with gusto. Through the years, they have learned by trial and error the species that are to be avoided.

Other highly toxic plants in this region include climbing nightshade (Solanum dulcamara), dolls’-eyes (Actaea pachypoda), false hellebore (Veratrum viride and V. parviflorum), jimsonweed (Datura stramonium), and May-apple or American mandrake (Podophyllum peltatum).

Hemlock trees aren’t toxic in the least. The poison hemlock we think of is in reality an herbaceous species in the carrot family that bears the scientific name “Conium maculatum.”

Its finely-dissected leaves and purple-spotted stems are diagnostic. Nevertheless, novice wild food foragers hoping to gather the edible rootstocks of Queen Anne’s lace (wild carrot) sometimes slip up and harvest poison hemlock instead. Wannabe foragers can also mistake the finely dissected leaves of the young plants for parsley, or the seeds for anise. Such errors inevitably result in a trip to an emergency room and, sometimes, even to the cemetery.

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Often, hiking is a more strenuous activity than walking. You should consult with your physician before beginning any hiking or exercise program. If you are a beginner hiker, start slow and choose paths with shorter distances and gradually work your way up to more difficult ones. Many times, especially at State Parks, hikes will be rated easy, moderate or difficult. Pay attention to the hike rating before starting down the path. Wear comfortable shoes with good soles.

If you carry a backpack, remember it can add 10 to 15 pounds to your frame. The added weight will require you to exert more energy, so you may want to hike a shorter distance until you are used to carrying the extra weight.

Steer clear of noxious plants like poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac. Avoid walking in high grass or weeds, as these areas commonly have ticks and chiggers. Always check yourself for ticks during and after returning from a hike. Wear light-colored clothing, so ticks are easy to spot. Be on the lookout for mosquitoes, particularly if you are hiking in areas with a lot of stagnant, standing water.

Also, it’s always a good idea to carry a first-aid kit with you for emergencies. If you are going on a short hike, store the kit in your car. Take it with you on longer hikes.

Tips from the 4-H Cooperative Extension Service