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Heritage train · Strahan, Tasmania
West Coast Wilderness Railway
Historic train between Strahan and Queenstown, over about 35 km of forest and rivers, with steam locomotives and rack-and-pinion sections on steep slopes.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About West Coast Wilderness Railway
The West Coast Wilderness Railway follows the line opened in the 1890s to carry copper from the Mount Lyell mines in Queenstown to the port of Strahan. The railway closed in 1963 and was restored for tourism in the early 2000s.
The route is about 35 km and crosses temperate rainforest, the King River and timber bridges. On the steepest sections the steam locomotives use a rack system, a gear between the rails that allows them to climb the slopes.
Journeys stop at old stations where passengers disembark to see the forest, the river and the locomotive operations. There are half-day departures from Strahan or Queenstown and full-length trips.
Strahan station is at Regatta Point, about 2 km from the town centre. The trip is paid; check the current fares and seasonal timetables.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day to a day, depending on the route.
Best time
In the season, September to April, when there are more departures.
How to get there
Regatta Point station is about 2 km from Strahan’s centre, by car or on a waterfront walk.
Tip
Check whether the chosen journey uses a steam locomotive and whether it returns the same day.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about West Coast Wilderness Railway
What is the West Coast Wilderness Railway route?
Between Strahan and Queenstown, about 35 km through forest and rivers.
Is the train steam?
Steam locomotives are used on part of the journeys; check the chosen route.
Where is Strahan station?
At Regatta Point, about 2 km from the centre.