The underside of the cap or hymenial surface may have rounded gill-like ridges or veins that branch irregularly, as on the golden chanterelle, or the underside may be smooth to wrinkled as found on the craterellus or gilless chanterelle. Other than the obvious lack of ridges characteristic of the craterellus , the two varieties are virtually alike. Both possess a pleasant, fruity aroma similar to apricots, and both are choice edibles. Chanterelles can be found in the same habitat that favors morels. They will always be found on the ground in grass or leaf litter, never on decaying wood or trees, and while they may be found singly, they grow more commonly in groups.
All mushrooms favor moist conditions and the chanterelle is no exception.
Generally, any extended period of rain should provide conditions suitable for chanterelles. Since the fruiting season of these fungi begins in May and continues through October, opportunities for finding them abound. Early fall is a good time to search because heavy undergrowth and insect pests are on the decline. As bright fall foliage begins to litter the forest floor, they become more difficult to find. The novice hunter should be aware of one particular look-alike to avoid.