
The cursed Mushroom Tunnel of Picton
Australia, oceania
N/A
180 m
moderate
Year-round
Tucked away near Picton, in New South Wales' Macarthur Region, lies the infamous Redbank Range Railway Tunnel, a.k.a. the Mushroom Tunnel. This 180-meter relic opened way back in 1867 but was abandoned by trains in 1919. It even did a stint as a storage facility during WWII and later as a mushroom farm!
The road leading to it, nestled between Picton Junction and Thirlmer, is unpaved, adding to the adventure. Sadly, the tunnel is currently closed due to deterioration, so you can only admire it from the outside.
Known for its eerie vibe, thanks to the dampness and resident fungi, the tunnel has a surreal beauty. Legend has it that the tunnel is haunted by the ghost of a woman named Emily Bollard, who tragically died after being hit by a train in 1916. People claim to have seen strange lights, felt sudden temperature drops, and even spotted ghostly children within its walls.
So, while you can't venture inside, a visit to the Redbank Range Railway Tunnel promises a unique and spine-tingling experience! Be cautious and respect any barriers if you visit.
Where is it?
The cursed Mushroom Tunnel of Picton is located in Australia (oceania). Coordinates: -27.7110, 134.9021
Road Details
- Country
- Australia
- Continent
- oceania
- Max Elevation
- 180 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- -27.7110, 134.9021
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