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AUSTIN: Texas Star Mushroom Walk

  • Location emailed to registrants Central Austin (map)

WALK GUIDES: Molly & Stephanie

When: Saturday, January 4, 2025, 10 A.m.

Where: Austin (Location TBD and will be sent to registrants one day before walk.)

Cost: $7+ Sliding Scale Donation

Family Friendly, Children 12 and younger are free.

🌟 Calling all nature lovers, fungi enthusiasts, and curious adventurers! Join us for an unforgettable hike in Central Austin to search for our state mushroom, the extraordinary Texas Star Mushroom, also known as the Devil’s Cigar (Chorioactis geaster).

This unique mushroom is a true Lone Star State treasure, found in only a handful of places worldwide—Japan, Taiwan, and right here in Texas. Known for its dramatic “hissing” sound as it opens to release its spores, this fascinating fungi is as rare as it is mysterious.

🎥 Watch the magic in action and see why this mushroom has inspired our organization's logo!

🌳 Lace up your hiking boots, grab your curiosity, and join us for a fun and educational outdoor adventure. Don't miss this chance to explore local ecosystems and experience one of nature's rarest wonders up close!

Expect:

  • Easy-moderate hike with various terrains

  • Educational program with information about the Texas Star Mushroom 

  • 1 mile round-trip

  • Possible cancellations due to weather

What to bring:

  • Water

  • Camera if desired

  • Good hiking shoes, raincoat.

SEE THE TEXAS STAR MUSHROOM HISS AT INKS LAKE!

Angel with the an Eastern North American Destroying Angel or Amanita bisporigera

ABOUT THE WALK GUIDE

Molly is from the city of Austin along the (Texas) Colorado River, among the ashe juniper trees and prickly pear cactus. I'm an artist and fungi enthusiast. I spend about half of the year traveling to expand my understanding of art, nature, and culture. I studied Art & Design and have worked as a print and digital graphic designer, a UX designer and researcher, and most recently as a Professor of Visual Communication at Austin Community College.

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