Zig Zag Railway
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Zig Zag Railway Clarence

4.6
·949 reviews·Clarence, Australia

Step back in time on a heritage steam train through the scenic Blue Mountains, experiencing historic tunnels and viaducts.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Experience the full heritage charm

CrowdMedium
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Zig Zag Railway

Zig Zag Railway Clarence

Best Time

Weekends

Experience the full heritage charm

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time on a heritage steam train through the scenic Blue Mountains, experiencing historic tunnels and viaducts.

4.6
(949 reviews)

"A nostalgic journey with stunning views and amazing volunteers – a must-do!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead Online

Tickets sell out fast! Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment.

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

Blue Mountains weather is unpredictable. Bring warm clothes, especially in cooler months.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Steam Train Ride

Historic Steam Train Ride

Clarence Station

Experience a nostalgic journey on a vintage steam locomotive, chugging through stunning Blue Mountains scenery.

TikTok+1
The Zig Zag Tunnel

The Zig Zag Tunnel

En route from Clarence

Pass through the iconic, historic Zig Zag Tunnel, a marvel of engineering from a bygone era.

TikTok
Clarence Viaducts

Clarence Viaducts

En route from Clarence

Marvel at the impressive Clarence Viaducts, offering breathtaking views of the valley below.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

The Zig Zag Railway is a popular heritage attraction, and tickets can sell out, especially during peak seasons or holidays. Booking online ahead of your visit is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. TikTok

Dress for Mountain Weather

Located in the Blue Mountains, the weather can change quickly. Even on sunny days, it can be cool, especially in winter. Pack layers and warm clothing, particularly if visiting outside of summer. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Experience the full heritage charm
Crowd
Medium
When
School Holidays
Why
Family fun and special events
Crowd
High
When
Autumn Mornings
Why
Crisp air and stunning foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍Zig Zag Railway, Clarence, NSW Step back in time onboard the heritage steam train 🚂 at @Zig Zag Railway and Cafe through freezing mountain air this winter season and even caught a bit of snowfall. 🌨️ Only two hours away from Sydney. #fyp #travel #sydney #australia #zigzagrailway #newsouthwalesaustralia #daytrip #steamtrain
@chhristinejoyce
54 likes • 3.2K views

🎯 Book Ahead Online

Tickets sell out fast! Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment. TikTokReddit

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

Blue Mountains weather is unpredictable. Bring warm clothes, especially in cooler months. TikTok+1

All aboard The Zig Zag Railway 🚂 Come join us as we ride from Clarence to Bottom Points and back in 90 minutes of pure scenic magic, crossing the stunning Clarence viaducts and diving through the historic Zig Zag Tunnel. A must-do NSW experience situated near Lithgow and the Blue Mountains with views, vibes, and vintage charm. 🌲🛤️ Thanks for sharing your #feelNSW moment Rochelle Wheatley. ID: Mont...
@visitnsw
319 likes • 16.9K views
📸+ Brace yourself for a nostalgic journey back in time! The old world charm steam train #zigzagrailway has finally reopened its doors after a decade-long hiatus. I recommend to come with the public train since you'll get more time than coming with car and get on from Clarence Station. Zig Zag Train, Lithgow •$45 per adult, $27.5 per child. Booking is essential!
@sumnima890
44 likes • 2.3K views

☕ Cafe & Souvenirs

Grab a bite at the cafe or find a memento in the souvenir shop. TikTok

📸 Best for Photos

Visit on a sunny day and open windows for great valley views (close them for tunnels!). TikTok

Family fun for my nephew’s birthday 🚞 @Zig Zag Railway and Cafe #zigzagrailway #bluemountains #bluemountainsaustralia #clarence #visitnsw #railway #railways #railwaystation #familyfriendly #familyactivities #familydayout #kidfriendly #traintracks #zigzag @New South Wales
@belindamcguire_
30 likes • 376 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead Online

Tickets sell out fast! Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment. TikTokReddit

🧥 Pack Warm Layers

Blue Mountains weather is unpredictable. Bring warm clothes, especially in cooler months. TikTok+1

☕ Cafe & Souvenirs

Grab a bite at the cafe or find a memento in the souvenir shop. TikTok

📸 Best for Photos

Visit on a sunny day and open windows for great valley views (close them for tunnels!). TikTok

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for Families

Kids love the steam engine and historic experience. TikTok+1

What Travellers Say

4.6
(949 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Zig Zag Railway for its nostalgic charm, stunning Blue Mountains scenery, and the dedication of its volunteers. The steam train experience is described as a 'blast from the past' and a great value for money. While generally positive, some note the need to book in advance due to popularity.

"The volunteers were amazing, well informed about the history of the rail road, efficient and courteous.

The train was well maintained, carriages were clean and in good repair and the scenery was absolutely stunning.

We were fortunate enough to visit close to Halloween so we were treated to a lolly hunt at one of the stations. Many of the volunteers were in costumes which only added to the enjoyment of the passengers, both kids and adults."

Nicky Marr

"Historic zigzag railway and iconic activity to experience while in out west, only located a short drive from Lithgow CBD, the zigzag railway will take you on a historic trip back in time climbing aboard an old steam train named yank, that will literally zigzag from the top of the mountain to the bottom of the mountain and back whilst taking in beautiful views of the Chifley region,

Purchasing tickets is essential, which can be purchased online prior to your trip. Recommend getting there about 30 minutes before there is a cafe and amenities on site.
Also recommend bringing a picnic lunch for a bite to eat along the way as there is a couple of stops ,

A great experience for all ages
Fairly priced
Staff for ship friendly, interactive and knowledgeable

Large car park where the train ride begins at Clarence Station

Would recommend"

Ritchie William

"The Zig Zag Railway is a must visit tourist attraction just 15 to 20 minute drive out of Lithgow New South Wales the old steam engine and rickety old carriages are a blast from the past and so much fun; especially when the whistle blows and the steam fills the aiir. Although the carriages are old, the seats are very comfortable. It’s also disability friendly as they will provide ramps if you need them to get on and off the carriages. There’s a small Canteen with hot snacks and pastries, and a Souvenir shop. You even get an old-fashioned cardboard train ticket, which gets clipped by the ticket inspector, a great little souvenir to keep. The staff are all volunteers and are extremely friendly and helpful. There is also commentary telling you all about the history of the line and the engines themselves. There’s a 10 minute stop halfway and the ride goes for an hour and a half, which is really good value for money for only $39 a ticket for adults. Cheaper for concession, children are even cheaper and there is free tickets for younger children.The scenery was beautiful, especially the old Sandstone Bridge, multiple tunnels and being able to look out of the open windows down into the beautiful valley to all the lovely scenery. But make sure you bring warm clothes, especially in winter I went at the end of September and it was 11° at lunchtime, despite being sunny. If you book in advance be prepared for any weather conditions, if you leave it for a couple of days before hand, you should be pretty right with booking and the weather forecast. It’s best to travel on a sunny day so you can see the entire valley and open the windows and get the best photos, but I suggest closing the windows when you go through the tunnels as the carriages can get full of steam and smoke ha ha - there was a few of us coughing, but I think it was all put on for the videos! Definitely worth the trip. If you’re driving, you can park at the Clarence Station or if you’re traveling by the Sydney Metropolitan or Country Link Railway line you can meet up at the Bottom Station. If you’re driving from Lithgow, it’s a short 15 to 20 minute drive but the road is very steep and windy with the top of 60 km an hour, So take it easy on some of those tight bends. I highly recommend a visit to the zigzag railway. It’s a great family outing for people of all ages - kids to seniors a great family day out highly recommended! 🤩 🚂❄️❄️"

Lisa Pratley (ILuvCooperAlan)

What People Like

Nostalgic steam train ride
Stunning valley views
Knowledgeable volunteers

What People Dislike

Can book out quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Zig Zag Railway is located in Clarence, NSW, about a two-hour drive from Sydney. TikTok If driving from Lithgow, it's a 15-20 minute drive, but be aware the road is steep and winding. Reddit Some visitors recommend arriving by public train to maximize time at the attraction. TikTok

Yes, there is a large car park available at Clarence Station where the train ride begins. Reddit

While the primary access is by car, some travelers suggest arriving by public train to the area and then potentially connecting to the railway. TikTok Check Sydney Metropolitan or Country Link Railway for options to Bottom Station. Reddit

The drive from Lithgow to Clarence Station is about 15-20 minutes. The road is described as steep and windy with a speed limit of 60 km/h, so take it easy on the bends. Reddit

Yes, the railway is disability friendly. Ramps are provided to assist with boarding and disembarking the carriages. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary, with adult tickets around $45 and child tickets approximately $27.50. TikTok Family ticket packages are also available, with one mentioned at $140. TikTok Concession and younger child tickets are cheaper. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance, as the railway can book out quickly, especially during holidays and peak times. TikTokReddit

Operating hours can vary, but the 10:00 am ride is mentioned. It's best to check the official website for the most current schedule. TikTok

While it's best to book in advance, purchasing tickets on the day might be possible if availability allows. Arriving about 30 minutes before your scheduled ride is advised. Reddit

Your ticket includes the scenic steam train ride, which lasts about an hour and a half. You'll also receive an old-fashioned cardboard train ticket as a souvenir. Reddit

🎫 🧳 Onsite Experience

The train ride itself lasts for approximately an hour and a half, with a 10-minute stop halfway through. Reddit

You'll enjoy a scenic journey with stunning valley views, pass through historic tunnels and over viaducts, and learn about the railway's history from knowledgeable volunteers. TikTokReddit

Yes, there is a cafe on-site that sells hot snacks and pastries, and a souvenir shop. Reddit Visitors also recommend bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy during the stops. Reddit

It's advisable to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Given the mountain location, bring layers as the weather can be cool, even in summer. TikTokReddit+1

Absolutely! It's a fantastic family-friendly activity. Kids often love the steam engine, the historic experience, and special events like lolly hunts. TikTokReddit+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Clarence Viaducts and the historic Zig Zag Tunnel offer iconic photo opportunities. TikTok The scenic valley views from the train windows are also spectacular, especially on a sunny day. Reddit

A sunny day is ideal for capturing the best views of the valley. Reddit Consider the morning or late afternoon for softer light. TikTok

Generally, photography is encouraged. However, it's recommended to close windows when going through tunnels to avoid steam and smoke, which can obscure shots. Reddit

Yes, you can take photos from the train windows. Opening the windows on sunny days provides excellent opportunities for clear shots of the scenery. Reddit

A camera with good zoom capabilities can be useful for capturing details of the train and landscape. TikTok A wide-angle lens might be good for the viaducts and tunnels. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Zig Zag Railway is an excellent choice for a family day out. Children are often captivated by the sight and sound of the heritage steam train, making it an exciting and educational experience. TikTok+1 The volunteers are known for being interactive and friendly, which helps keep younger visitors engaged. Reddit

Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy during the stops, as there are a couple of opportunities to disembark and explore. Reddit Special events, like holiday-themed activities, can add an extra layer of fun. Reddit The railway is also disability friendly, ensuring most families can enjoy the experience together. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, the Zig Zag Railway offers a unique blend of historic engineering and natural beauty. The Clarence Viaducts and the iconic Zig Zag Tunnel are prime subjects. TikTok Capturing the steam train against the backdrop of the Blue Mountains provides dramatic and memorable shots. TikTok

Aim for a sunny day to maximize the visual appeal of the landscape. Reddit While you can shoot from inside the train, opening the windows on clear sections will give you the best, unobstructed views. Reddit Remember to close them when passing through tunnels to avoid smoke and steam. TikTok

🚂 History Buffs & Trainspotters

The Zig Zag Railway is a living museum, offering a deep dive into Australia's railway heritage. The unique 'zig zag' design is a testament to early engineering challenges. Reddit Enthusiasts will appreciate the well-maintained steam locomotives and the historical context provided by the knowledgeable volunteers. TikTokReddit

Trainspotters can enjoy the sounds and sights of the steam engines in action, particularly as they climb the grades. TikTok The experience of holding a clipped, old-fashioned ticket adds to the authentic historical feel. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through History

The Zig Zag Railway is a significant piece of Australian railway history, originally built to overcome the steep incline of the Blue Mountains. It features a unique 'zig zag' design, with the train reversing direction twice to ascend or descend the mountain. This engineering feat was crucial for connecting Sydney with the western plains. The railway has undergone extensive restoration by dedicated volunteers after periods of closure, ensuring its heritage continues to be experienced by new generations. TikTokReddit

Volunteers are a cornerstone of the Zig Zag Railway experience. They are often praised for their extensive knowledge of the railway's history, their efficiency, and their friendly demeanor. Reddit Many are passionate about sharing stories of the engines and the line, adding a rich layer of context to the journey. Their dedication ensures the trains are well-maintained, the carriages are clean, and the overall visitor experience is memorable. TikTok

The steam locomotives themselves are a major draw. Hearing the whistle blow and seeing the steam fill the air evokes a powerful sense of nostalgia. Reddit The carriages, while historic, are noted for their comfort. Visitors often receive old-fashioned cardboard tickets that are clipped by the ticket inspector, a charming touch that enhances the vintage feel. Reddit Special events, like Halloween lolly hunts with volunteers in costume, further add to the unique charm and family-friendly atmosphere. Reddit

Scenic Views and Photography

The scenic beauty of the Blue Mountains is a major highlight of the Zig Zag Railway journey. As the train winds its way through the landscape, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the valley below. TikTok+1 The route includes impressive structures like the Clarence Viaducts, offering panoramic vistas that are perfect for photography. TikTok

Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities. The historic Zig Zag Tunnel is a dramatic feature, and capturing the steam train emerging from or entering it can make for striking images. TikTok For the best photographic results, visiting on a sunny day is highly recommended, as it allows for clear views and vibrant colors. Reddit Opening the carriage windows on clear stretches of track can provide unobstructed shots of the stunning scenery. Reddit

When traveling through the tunnels, it's advisable to close the windows. This is to avoid the carriages filling with steam and smoke, which can obscure views and cause coughing. Reddit However, some visitors humorously suggest this might even be part of the 'show' for videos! Reddit The combination of the historic train, the unique engineering, and the natural beauty of the Blue Mountains makes the Zig Zag Railway a photographer's delight. TikTok