It is generally similar in appearance to C. cibarius and C. formosus except for its large size at maturity.

The hymenium is folded into decurrent ridges (false gills) and cross-veins, which deepen with age.

[4] individual specimens up to 2 kilograms (4.4 lb) are reported, making it the largest-known species of chanterelle.

[1] Their unusual size is due in part to their capacity for indeterminate growth, making C. californicus specimens actively grow for far longer than most other mushrooms.

[1] C. californicus is a popular wild edible in the San Francisco Bay Area, and is most common between November and April.