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Ghost Mushroom Lane: A Bioluminescent Spectacle

Discover the eerie beauty of Ghost Mushroom Lane in Glencoe Forest, where bioluminescent fungi create a magical nighttime spectacle.

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Venture into the Glencoe Forest near Mount Gambier to witness the magical glow of ghost mushrooms (Omphalotus nidiformis). These bioluminescent fungi light up the forest floor in May and June, creating an ethereal and unforgettable experience.

A brief summary to Ghost Mushroom Lane

Local tips

  • Visit during May or June for the best chance to see the ghost mushrooms in their peak glowing season.
  • Check the moon phase and aim for a visit on a moonless night for optimal viewing of the bioluminescence.
  • Wear warm clothes, closed-toe shoes, and bring a torch to navigate the forest trails safely.
  • Remember that the mushrooms are poisonous and should not be touched or eaten.
  • Consider placing ghost markers along the track to assist other visitors in finding mushroom populations.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Ghost Mushroom Lane from Mount Gambier, head along the Princes Highway towards Millicent. After approximately 12km, turn right onto Kangaroo Flat Road and continue for 4.3km. Then, turn right again into Ghost Mushroom Lane. Clear signage will guide you from the road. There is ample parking at the entrance.

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Discover more about Ghost Mushroom Lane

Ghost Mushroom Lane, located in the Glencoe Forest near Mount Gambier, South Australia, offers a unique opportunity to witness the enchanting glow of bioluminescent ghost mushrooms. These fascinating fungi, scientifically known as Omphalotus nidiformis, emit a soft green glow after dark, transforming the forest into a magical wonderland. The ghost mushrooms thrive on decaying plant material, particularly on pine stumps and other rotting wood within the Limestone Coast's pine forests. They typically emerge in late autumn and continue into winter, with the peak viewing season in May and June. The mushrooms can grow up to 20 centimeters across and appear creamy white in daylight, but it's their nighttime glow that captivates visitors. The bioluminescence is a result of a chemical reaction between fungal enzymes and oxygen. It's believed that the glow attracts insects and other invertebrates, which aid in spreading the mushroom's spores. To fully experience Ghost Mushroom Lane, it's recommended to visit on moonless nights, as the darkness enhances the mushrooms' glow. Visitors should also wear warm clothing, sensible shoes, and bring a torch to navigate the forest trails. While the mushrooms are beautiful to observe, it's important not to touch or ingest them, as they are poisonous. Ghost Mushroom Lane is a family-friendly experience, offering a chance to connect with nature and witness a rare natural phenomenon.

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