Russula occidentalis

Description:

Like many russulas this one causes some confusion. It is medium-sized or larger, with a variably coloured cap- usually purplish, but is can appear in many shades. The gills are cream to pale yellowish and the stipe is white and often turns grayish in age or when handled, sometimes with a reddish phase.

Habitat:

Common species under the conifers in the Washington Cascades.

Notes:

There were lots of these along the Skyline Divide Trail in Mt Baker Wilderness. Surprising because it has been very hot, without rain for weeks and the earth was dry and dusty, but we saw lots of these mushrooms.