The Scenic Railway is undoubtedly one of the Blue Mountains’ ultimate thrills, with a 52° incline making it the world’s steepest passenger railway.
Traversing the rugged terrain that makes the Blue Mountains so spectacular, the Scenic Railway covers an incredible 310 metre journey through a cliff tunnel before coming to a stop in the unforgettable Jamison Valley.
What makes the Scenic Railway so special?
If hiking the Blue Mountains is a nature-lover’s goal, the Scenic Railway is any thrill seeker’s dream. With the option of choosing how inclined your journey will be (the Cliffhanger option is an intense 64° incline, the Laidback option is at 44°, while the Original is 52°), and a route that takes you through an amazing cliff tunnel before coming out to the Jamison Valley’s lush surroundings, this adventure should be on the list of any Blue Mountains visitor.
History of the Scenic Railway
The Scenic Railway wasn’t some overnight pop up designed to lure in adrenaline-loving tourists: the railway has been in existence since the 19th century, where it served minors coming to and from the Katoomba coal mine. Acquired by the Hammon family in 1945, it was converted into a tourist railway. The railway was redeveloped in 2013 to huge success and, since its 1945 induction, has provided over 20 million passengers with awesome thrills and stunning views of this most revered natural landscape.
Today, it holds the Guinness Book of Records title for the world’s steepest railway gradient – not a bad feat for a railway that has been in some form of an operation since the 1800s (with the exception of the few months of redevelopment in 2013).
Whilst you’re there…
You probably know by now that the Blue Mountains isn’t all about an incline railway: the region is also home to some of the most incredible forests, walking trails, waterfalls and, naturally, views in the Southern Hemisphere!
From Wentworth Falls’ towering cascading drop to the sheer amazement of the Three Sisters view at Echo Point, to the endless tracks that meander down to secluded swimming spots, the Blue Mountains has long held its legend status in Australian tourism for a region. Whether you’re heading directly to the Mountains or looking for a quick getaway during your stay in Sydney, this is an unforgettable part of the world that shouldn’t be missed by nature lovers.
Related article: The Adventurous Attractions at Scenic World
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia
Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.