Magic mushrooms have captivated psychonauts for generations, offering profound, mind-expanding journeys. But if you’re preparing for a trip, one of the biggest questions you likely have is: How long do magic mushrooms last? Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or someone dipping their toes into the psychedelic waters, understanding the timeline of effects, peak experience, and afterglow can help ensure a positive and well-planned trip.
Breaking Down the Magic Mushroom Timeline
The duration of a magic mushroom trip varies depending on several factors, including the dose, your metabolism, and whether you’ve eaten recently. But generally, you can expect the following stages:
1. Onset (20-60 minutes)
Once you’ve ingested your magic mushrooms—whether raw, dried, in tea, or as part of an edible—the effects will gradually start to creep in. Some people describe a tingling sensation, lightheadedness, or an early sense of euphoria. Visual distortions, enhanced colors, and mild auditory changes may also start to emerge.
Pro tip: If you’re new to magic mushrooms, start with a lower dose (1-2 grams of dried psilocybin mushrooms) to gauge your sensitivity before diving into deeper waters.
2. Peak Effects (1.5 – 3 hours)
This is when the magic really happens. The peak is the most intense part of the trip, often characterized by deep introspection, heightened sensory perception, and full-fledged hallucinations. Time may feel distorted, and you might experience ego dissolution or profound emotional revelations.
Expect waves of laughter, shifting patterns, and a deep connection to nature or the universe. Whether you experience euphoric enlightenment or deep introspective work depends on your mindset and setting (also known as “set and setting”).
3. Plateau (3 – 5 hours)
After the peak, the trip begins to settle into a more manageable state. The visuals are still strong, but the intensity gradually starts to wane. Thoughts may flow more smoothly, and you’ll likely begin integrating the experience as it unfolds.
4. Comedown (4 – 6 hours)
As the trip tapers off, you might feel physically tired but mentally refreshed. Some people report a sense of relief, while others find themselves lingering in deep thought. A feeling of calm euphoria can persist, and mild visuals might still be present in some cases.
The Afterglow: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
One of the best-kept secrets about magic mushrooms is the afterglow—a period lasting anywhere from a few hours to several days after your trip, where you may feel more connected, inspired, and emotionally balanced.
Many users report feeling happier, more creative, and mentally clear in the days following a psychedelic experience. This is why magic mushrooms are being increasingly explored for their therapeutic potential in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Pro tip: To make the most of the afterglow, spend time journaling about your experience, meditating, or engaging in creative activities. Many find that integrating insights gained during their trip leads to lasting personal growth.
Factors That Influence Magic Mushroom Duration
Not all trips are the same. Here’s what can affect how long your magic mushroom experience lasts:
Dosage: A microdose (0.1 – 0.3g) will have mild effects for a few hours, while a heroic dose (5g+) can take you on an intense journey lasting 6+ hours.
Consumption method: Eating raw mushrooms takes longer to kick in compared to drinking them as a tea, which has a faster onset but shorter peak duration.
Empty vs. full stomach: A full stomach can slow down absorption, delaying the onset, whereas taking mushrooms on an empty stomach may intensify the trip.
Metabolism & body weight: Those with a faster metabolism may process psilocybin more quickly, shortening the duration.
Tolerance & frequency of use: If you’ve taken magic mushrooms recently, your body might have built up a short-term tolerance, potentially reducing the effects.
How to Shorten or Extend a Mushroom Trip
Looking for a longer or shorter experience? Here’s what you can do:
To Shorten a trip:
Lemon Tekking: This method involves soaking ground mushrooms in lemon juice for 15-20 minutes before drinking. The acidity pre-digests psilocybin, leading to a faster onset and shorter trip.
Distraction: Engaging in an activity like watching TV or listening to calming music can sometimes help ground you.
Take Vitamin C or sugar: Some users report that consuming sugary snacks or Vitamin C can help lessen the trip’s intensity.
Have a trip sitter & grounding techniques: If things feel overwhelming, breathing exercises and reassurance from a sober friend can help ease the transition.
To Extend a trip:
Redosing: Taking a second, smaller dose about 2 hours into the trip can prolong the effects, though it may not intensify them significantly.
Pairing with MAOIs (with caution): Some natural MAOIs, like Syrian Rue or Banisteriopsis caapi, can extend the psilocybin experience. However, this should be done with care and research.
How Long Do Magic Mushrooms Stay in Your System?
While the trip itself lasts for a few hours, psilocybin and its metabolites usually clear from your system within 24 hours. However, some drug tests (particularly specialized urine, blood, or hair tests) can detect trace amounts for up to a week.
The good news? Standard workplace drug tests typically do not screen for psilocybin, so unless you’re undergoing specific psychedelic testing, you have little to worry about.
Key Takeaway: Making the Most of Your Journey
Knowing how long magic mushrooms last can help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re taking a small dose for a gentle boost or diving into a full-blown psychedelic adventure, the key to a great trip is set, setting, and intention.
If you’re looking to explore high-quality psilocybin products, check out our curated selection at Magic Mushrooms Dispensary. From dried mushrooms to microdose capsules, we’ve got everything you need for a transformative journey.
Happy tripping, and may your adventures be magical!