Zig Zag Railway

Carved into the rugged Blue Mountains escarpment, the Zig Zag Railway is a living museum of steam-age engineering. This heritage railway winds through dramatic sandstone cuttings and across soaring viaducts, offering a thrilling journey back to the 19th century. The original line, opened in 1869, used a clever zig-zag switchback to descend the steep western slope of the mountains — an audacious solution that still impresses today. For international travellers, it's a perfect blend of history, scenery and hands-on nostalgia.

Highlights & What to See

• Steam train ride: Climb aboard a beautifully restored locomotive for a 45-minute round trip through tunnels, over the iconic stone viaducts, and through the dramatic sandstone cuttings that made the zig-zag famous.
• Clarence Tunnel: The longest tunnel on the line (237 m), carved by hand in the 1860s — feel the chill and hear the echo as the train rumbles through.
• Viaduct views: The railway crosses three towering viaducts, with the best photo opportunities from the open-sided carriages. Look out for eucalypt forests and deep valleys below.
• Top Points viewing platform: At the summit station, a lookout offers panoramic views over the Grose Valley and the railway's switchback formation.
• Heritage museum and workshops: At the Clarence station, explore the engine shed and a small museum displaying historic photos, tools and rolling stock.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least half a day (3–4 hours) to fully experience the Zig Zag Railway. The steam train ride itself takes about 45 minutes each way, but factor in time to explore the Clarence station precinct, walk to the Top Points lookout, and browse the museum. Arrive early for the first service to avoid crowds and catch the morning light on the sandstone. If you're a rail enthusiast, you could easily stretch it to a full day by joining a behind-the-scenes tour or volunteering talk.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Lithgow — 10 min drive: This historic mining town has a compact main street with pubs, the Eskbank House museum, and the fascinating Lithgow Blast Furnace site.
• Blue Mountains National Park — 30 min east: Combine with classic lookouts at Govetts Leap, the Three Sisters at Katoomba, and bushwalks in the Grose Valley.
• Jenolan Caves — 45 min south: One of Australia's most spectacular limestone cave systems, with guided tours through vast chambers and underground rivers.
• Hartley Historic Site — 20 min north: A beautifully preserved 19th-century village with old courthouse, churches and inns — a perfect picnic stop.
• Mount Victoria — 25 min east: The highest town in the Blue Mountains, with heritage architecture, antique shops and the start of the Six Foot Track walking trail.

Please check official sources for current details.