Acknowledgement of Country 

As we prepare to set out on this virtual journey, we acknowledge the Djabugay Bama – First Nations people whose culture is entwined with the land you travel on with Kuranda Scenic Railway. The waterways were created by Gudju Gudju, the rainbow serpent, who took the form of Buda-dji, the carpet snake, in his travels trading nautilus shells for half-moon bicornual baskets on the tableland, creating the Barron River and its waterways. The strength and identity of the Djabugay Bama lives and breathes through these creation stories and Bulurru the spirit. We pay our respect to Djabugay Elders past, present and emerging.

A Rainforest Rail Adventure

Experience a nostalgic journey of discovery on a breathtaking rainforest rail adventure aboard the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway in Tropical North Queensland.

Kuranda Scenic Railway promises an unforgettable experience that’s sure to enthral visitors of all ages. Steeped in history and overflowing with the abundant natural splendour of Wet Tropics World Heritage rainforest, Kuranda Scenic Railway is one of Australia’s most celebrated short rail journeys. Climb aboard authentic heritage carriages and prepare to be captivated by the fascinating history and spellbinding scenery, as you wind your way from the tropical tourism hotspot of Cairns to the quaint mountaintop village of Kuranda. 

The train traverses some of the most ancient and pristine rainforest on Earth. Departing Cairns twice daily and offering an indulgent Gold Class option on the second departure in each direction (that is, at 9:30 AM departing Cairns and 3:30 PM departing Kuranda), it’s an absolute must for those seeking an unforgettable immersion in unsurpassed natural beauty. Emerge from a series of hand-dug tunnels into an enchanting realm of breathtaking landscapes, where towering bridges cross deep ravines, and dramatic gorges echo with the sound of thundering waterfalls. Sit back, relax and enjoy the informative audio onboard commentary, as you soak in your incredible surroundings and marvel at the tales of trial and triumph that created this astounding engineering feat. 

The following audio guide invites you to sample some of the fascinating history and captivating highlights experienced aboard the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway. For further information about the overall experience, including fun facts, an onboard orientation and detailed accessibility information, please refer to the Kuranda Scenic Railway – Introduction, Orientation and Accessibility audio guide.

Now make yourself comfortable and prepare to be escorted on this virtual adventure. But beware – this enticing preview is sure to have you making tracks to Tropical North Queensland so you can experience Kuranda Scenic Railway for yourself! All aboard!

Departing Cairns – The Journey Begins

The Kuranda Scenic Railway offers two departures daily from Cairns railway station via Freshwater railway station to Kuranda. While you can travel in either (or both) directions as a one-way or return journey, this audio guide is based on a westbound itinerary from Cairns to Kuranda. 

Cairns is nestled on the northern coastline of Tropical North Queensland – where the Wet Tropics rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. This is the only place on Earth where two natural World Heritage Areas lay side by side, basking in a seemingly endless summer. No wonder it’s a holiday hotspot for visitors from all around Australia and the world!

Over 153,000 residents make their home here, enjoying life in an exciting, modern city that also takes great pride in its rich cultural heritage. Cairns was settled in 1876 and named after then Governor of Queensland, Sir William Wellington Cairns. The City of Cairns was literally built on the arrival of the railway, with soil and rubble excavated during construction of the line used to fill in large areas of tidal swamp on which much of the city now stands.

As the train eases its way out of Cairns railway  station, the gleaming luxury hotels and bustling shopping centres give way to a sprawling suburbia, where locals embrace a relaxed tropical lifestyle bathed in sunshine. Meandering towards our second stop at Freshwater railway station, we will also pass the Cairns International Airport, which was officially opened in 1984. Aviation first came to Cairns in 1928. Early aviators used the sand flats as runways and could only take off or land between high tides. These days, Cairns International Airport welcomes over five million passengers to the city each year, connecting the world with the treasures of Tropical North Queensland. 

Freshwater railway station and Redlynch

Before commencing its climb to Kuranda, the train makes a second stop to pick up customers at the picturesque suburban station of Freshwater. This station is popular with many visitors as the start or end station for their journey. 

Freshwater railway station was built in 1984 as a tribute to the visionaries and pioneers who built the Kuranda Scenic Railway between 1887 and 1891. It is modelled on the architectural style that was popular in tropical Queensland in the early 1900s. The station grounds feature an authentic railway worker’s cottage from the time the line was built.

The station’s tropical landscaped gardens impart a relaxed ambience. However, as the train rolls in, the energy changes and the anticipation is almost palpable. The excited chatter of customers finding their seats rings in the air, and in no time at all, we’re off again – gently rattling and rolling our way towards the rainforest. 

Shortly after departing Freshwater railway station, the train passes through endless cane fields in the suburb of Redlynch. The Redlynch area was named after the feisty redheaded foreman named Lynch who hired and fired the railway workers during the track’s construction. Many migrant workers who applied for jobs were sent out to "Red" Lynch, and being unfamiliar with the nickname given to redheads, they thought that was the name for the area. The name stuck. When the time came to officially declare the township, there were no objections to changing its name from Eight Mile Camp to Redlynch. The railway worker’s cottage at Freshwater railway station is also aptly named ‘Redlynch’s Cottage’. 

This area was integral to the development of the Cairns to Herberton railway line. This 13-kilometre Cairns to Redlynch section of the track took 17 months to construct and was the first to be completed, officially opening in 1887. This residential suburb backs on to Barron Gorge National Park and boasts fertile lands which were once used for sugar cane and other tropical horticulture. 

Wet Tropics World Heritage Area

Kuranda Scenic Railway offers a unique opportunity to immerse your senses in the natural splendour of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. 

As well as being a place of profound cultural significance, this is also one of the most remarkable and diverse natural regions on Earth. The Wet Tropics area was inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1988 for both its outstanding natural beauty and exceptional biodiversity. The region is globally significant as it contains one of the oldest continually surviving tropical rainforests in the world, dating back to the time when Australia was part of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana. The Wet Tropics is home to an extraordinary array of plant and animal life, providing habitat to some of the world’s most ancient and rare flora and fauna – including some species which are believed to have been around when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. You may be lucky enough to spot some of the diverse wildlife as you journey through this exquisite living museum. The biological diversity of the Wet Tropics is often compared to that of the Amazon and Congo rainforests, making it a key focus for conservation efforts.

The spectacular landscape through which the train travels has immense cultural significance to the Djabugay people – the traditional custodians of this land. They hold deep cultural connections with this area, and have lived in and sustainably managed the rainforests for thousands of years. 

The entire Wet Tropics World Heritage Area covers over 894,000 hectares. It stretches approximately 450 kilometres from just north of Townsville to Cooktown in Tropical North Queensland. The lush landscape you’ll visit aboard Kuranda Scenic Railway encompasses ancient rainforests, rugged mountains, thundering waterfalls and impressive river systems such as the mighty Barron River. 

An Ambitious Project – Making Tracks

Construction of the Kuranda Scenic Railway was one of the most ambitious projects in the history of Australia and remains one of the nation’s greatest engineering feats. Here’s a little history to help set the scene.

The discovery of gold on the Palmer River northwest of Cairns in 1873 created a gold rush in the region. With the subsequent discovery of rich tin deposits near Herberton, new townships began to blossom across the Atherton Tablelands. In the extended wet season of 1882, the rough pack horse tracks that were essential for sourcing supplies from the coastal ports proved unreliable, and thousands of settlers came close to starvation. There were desperate calls for the development of a railway line connecting the coast to the Atherton Tablelands, and soon the search for a suitable route began.

In March 1884, the Barron Gorge route was chosen for the development of a Cairns to Herberton Railway – a decision that would help shape the future of North Queensland. The Kuranda Scenic Railway journeys along part of this historic line, offering you an opportunity to marvel at the achievements of some of our nation’s most colourful and courageous pioneers. 

The railway was constructed in three sections, commencing on May 10th 1886. The first section, from Cairns to Redlynch, was comparatively easy to complete. However, the second section, a distance of 24-kilometres from Redlynch to Myola (a little beyond Kuranda) was an incredibly arduous mission, taking almost three-and-a-half years, and costing many men their lives. The steep grade of the mountain ascent, dense jungle and harsh living conditions imposed significant challenges, and the line travelled today stands as testimony to the ambitions, fortitude and suffering of the hundreds of men engaged in its construction. The first two sections, along which we’ll travel, were completed in June 1891, taking 5 years and costing just over one million pounds.

Carving Tunnels and Building Bridges

This challenging second section of track ascends steeply to an elevation of 327 metres above sea level. During its journey, Kuranda Scenic Railway travels through 15 tunnels, over 55 bridges, around 98 curves and through 153 cuttings. To complete construction, great escarpments were removed from the mountains above the line and every loose rock and overhanging tree had to be removed by hand. No wonder this section of track is recognised as a National Engineering Landmark.

As we begin the ascent, you may hear the rattle and thrum of the engine and feel the gentle tug of the locomotive as it clickety-clacks along the track, weaving its way up the mountain. Soon after departing Redlynch the train enters a 180-degree turn called Jungarra Loop which is also known as Horseshoe Bend. This curve was built up above the surrounding terrain to allow trains to build speed for the ascent ahead.

The successful contractor for this formidable second section was Melbourne engineer, John Robb. It must have been a daunting prospect, with this section of track comprising nearly two kilometres of tunnels and over two kilometres of bridges - some built several hundred metres above deep ravines and raging waterfalls. All tunnels and cuttings were dug with picks and shovels, after dynamite or gun powder were used to loosen the rock. The fifteenth and final tunnel travelling in this direction was by far the most difficult to build. At 429 metres, it is the longest on the line, taking over two years to complete. 

As you enter each tunnel, the natural light fades and the echo of the engine reverberates off the hand-carved stone walls. Emerging out the other side feels like entering another world. The environment opens up around you. The warm, earthy scent of the rainforest mingles with the cool, fresh mountain breeze flowing through the train’s open-air windows, and dappled sunshine filters through the lush canopy to the forest floor below. 

Life on the Line

The labour-intensive task of constructing the iconic Kuranda Scenic Railway line was a mammoth undertaking. Many English, Irish, Chinese and Italian workmen laboured relentlessly to carve the tunnels, build the bridges and complete the formidable earthworks that forged the crucial rail connection up the mountain. At the height of construction over fifteen hundred men worked on different sections of the line at the same time.

John Robb established his base camp at an area now known as Kamerunga. Over time, the base camp became a bustling settlement, with no less than five hotels and its own brewery turning out over two thousand gallons of ale a week. No doubt the hard manual labour in the tropical heat was thirsty work! Worker’s camps mushroomed at every tunnel and cutting. Even the narrowest of ledges supported stores and hotels. The workers lived in very basic tents or makeshift bark huts. During construction, navvies’ wages increased from 80 to 85 cents per day, with workers required to provide their own tools. 

The living and working conditions during construction were incredibly harsh. Accidents and injuries sustained in this dangerous working environment cost many men their lives. Many more are believed to have perished from snakebite and diseases such as malaria and dysentery, which plagued the population. 

A 21-metre-high rock formation, known as Robb’s Monument, stands alongside the track just east of Barron Falls. This impressive structure was left as a monument to John Robb and all the men who accomplished this astonishing engineering feat.

Stoney Creek

Before entering Barron Gorge, the Kuranda Scenic Railway passes through the picturesque Stoney Creek Gorge. During the line’s construction, this area was a thriving township with several amusement halls, a Methodist church, and even a lavish 28-room hotel complete with billiard room, ballroom and a grand piano. 

Stoney Creek Station was an important stop for early steam locomotives to take on water to complete the climb to Kuranda. The yard here has a passing loop and is the only section on the range where it is possible for two trains to cross.

During World War II, this rail line became a critical transport corridor between the many military camps, airfields and field hospitals in the region. In fact, in one 24-hour period during 1944, a record 43 trains passed through Stoney Creek Station.

Stoney Creek also boasts one of the most unusual railway bridges in the world. Built on an 80-metre radius, the bridge is the tightest curve on the Kuranda Range, and provides jaw-dropping vistas of the famous Stoney Creek Falls, known as Diwunga in the Djabugay language. This stunning waterfall cascades down a steep rocky cliff, tumbling over large boulders and creating a multi-tiered waterfall that sparkles in the sunlight. The water pours into clear, shallow pools surrounded by vibrant greenery, including ferns, palms, and moss-covered rocks. It creates a spectacular view and a soothing soundscape as you pass by.

The spectacular Stoney Creek bridge has also served as one of Australia’s most unique party venues. In 1890, then Governor of Queensland, Sir Henry Norman, paid a visit to the near-complete project. To honour his esteemed guest, John Robb organised an elaborate banquet right in the middle of the bridge, suspended high above the breathtaking gorge. According to historic records, all speeches for the day were cancelled – drowned out by the thundering roar of the waterfall.  

Customers aboard Kuranda Scenic Railway can still enjoy the soothing sound of water cascading over the falls as they curve across the bridge at Stoney Creek. As you near Stoney Creek Falls, the train begins to slow, and the sound of rushing water grows louder as it echoes through the timber carriages.

Locomotives and Carriages

The Kuranda Scenic Railway line has a narrow gauge of three feet six inches. Coal-fired steam engines were operated on this line until 1967. Today, Kuranda Scenic Railway is hauled by two 1720 (PRON: ‘17-20’) class diesel electric locomotives, each emitting around 1000 horsepower. This mechanical power is then mostly converted into high-voltage direct current electricity, which is used to propel the relatively lightweight locomotive along the track. 

The locomotives used on Kuranda Scenic Railway display an artwork by George Riley that depicts the dreamtime legend of Buda-Dji, the great carpet snake who carved out the mighty Barron Gorge. It is depicted in yellow and earthen tones, slithering along the length of the locomotive, on a vibrant background of blue and green. 

Most of the carriages on this train were built over 100 years ago, delivering an authentic heritage rail experience. The larger carriages are from the Sunshine Express train of the 1930s. The first and last carriage on each Kuranda Scenic Railway service has a Guards’ compartment fitted, further contributing to the train’s vintage appearance. 

Before the onset of World War II, rare ‘Grandstand’ cars operated on this line. These four special carriages were specifically designed for use by tourists on the train to Kuranda, and were unique to the Cairns area and perhaps within Australia, underscoring the significance of this line for the growth of tourism within the region. With later modifications, most of these carriages offered two rows of tiered seating and large glass viewing windows providing uninterrupted views of the rainforest, gorges and towards the glistening Coral Sea as the train climbed the Kuranda Range. 

These days, the authentic heritage carriages of Kuranda Scenic Railway transport you back in time to relish the nostalgic charm of yesteryear, and the magic of rail travel through one of the most pristine environments on Earth.

Barron Gorge - Overflowing with Surprises 

For most of the second section of this rainforest rail adventure, you will be traversing the Barron Gorge National Park, which extends from the coastal lowlands to the mountainous terrain of the Atherton Tablelands. This pristine, protected area was declared in 1940 and is a section of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area. When the Federal Court of Australia handed down the Djabugay people’s native title determination over Barron Gorge National Park in 2004, it became the first park in Queensland to have a native title determination. 

This dramatic and breathtaking environment comprises rugged mountain ranges, deep forested ravines and dense tropical rainforests, with the mighty Barron River carving a path through the lush vegetation, dominating the landscape.  

Heavy seasonal rains and mist allow the dense tropical rainforest to flourish here. Animals found within the park include striped possums, tree kangaroos, spotted-tailed quolls, platypus and the prickly short-beaked echidna. Birds and butterflies are also abundant. You may even hear the cheerful screeches of rainbow lorikeets or catch a glimpse of the brilliant blue Ulysses butterfly flitting amongst the forest canopy as you pass by. The endangered southern cassowary also finds refuge here, but sightings of these large, flightless birds are very rare.

As Kuranda Scenic Railway winds its way through Barron Gorge, it passes by Surprise Creek, where you’ll experience a lovely rush of cool air. This refreshing gust is a sea-breeze which works its way from the coast, along the Barron Gorge and up through this ravine. Also within Barron Gorge you’ll encounter the spectacular sight of Bridal Veil Falls, with its dramatic drop of 305 metres.

At the bottom of Barron Gorge you may see the Barron Gorge Hydro Electric Power Station. The power of water surging over Din Din Barron Falls was first harnessed in 1935. A smaller hydro-electric station built further upstream was Australia’s first underground power station, and a pioneer of clean energy in the region. It was subsequently replaced in 1963 by the station you see today, after the construction of the Tinaroo Dam upstream on the Barron River.

Din Din Barron Falls

Without doubt, the magnificent Din Din Barron Falls is an absolute highlight of any journey aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway. The train will make a brief stop at Barron Falls platform, allowing most customers to disembark and soak in the uninterrupted views and serene soundscape of this natural wonder. 

The Barron River winds 60 kilometres across the Atherton Tablelands, before entering the dramatic Barron Gorge, which forges a rugged, twisting path between towering mountain ranges. The river plunges 250 metres over Din Din and onto the narrow coastal lowlands, before flowing to the Coral Sea, just north of the Cairns Airport. 

Until 1958, it was a raging torrent, further fuelled by heavy rainfall in the wet season. However, since the construction of Tinaroo Dam upstream, significant volumes of water are contained and used for irrigation purposes on the Atherton Tablelands. While the falls are undeniably impressive, their former grandeur can be best witnessed when the river is in flood, causing an enormous gush over the falls, creating a spectacular eruption of water and mist.

The falls cascade majestically down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush vegetation in variegated shades of green. As you stand on the platform, the soothing sound of water tumbling over the rocks imparts a sense of serenity, and the cool breeze is tinged with the fresh scent of the surrounding forest. It’s a truly magical experience!

All too soon, the train whistle blows, signalling it’s time to reboard the train and complete our adventure to the charming village of Kuranda.

Kuranda Village 

Your final destination (and the departure point for return journeys) is Kuranda, also known as Ngunbay – a picturesque and vibrant ‘Village in the Rainforest’. The surrounding lush rainforest and fresh mountain air infuse this quaint community with laid-back charm, and an eclectic mix of experiences will stimulate your senses. It’s an intriguing mix of natural beauty, quirky surprises and colourful characters which make every visit memorable. 

Before heading out to explore further afield, pay a visit to the historic Kuranda Tea Rooms and adjoining Gift Shop located at Platform 1. The Tea Rooms have been tempting train travellers for over 100 years with a delicious range of snacks, light meals and beverages.

Once you’re refuelled and ready to explore, meander through the village’s famous art and craft markets, boutiques and galleries, where you’ll find everything from locally made clothing and jewellery to ceramics, gemstones and Indigenous art. Sample some of the fresh local produce, such as coffee, macadamias and exotic fruit wines. The village has a fun and festive atmosphere, with the music of talented buskers and the aroma of handcrafted candles lingering in the air. Settle in at one of the alfresco eateries to enjoy a delicious lunch or a refreshing beverage served with warm hospitality. 

Take a walk on the wild side and enjoy up-close encounters with some of Australia’s most iconic wildlife at Kuranda’s animal attractions including the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, Kuranda Koala Gardens, Birdworld or Rainforestation Nature Park. Most of these attractions can be added to your Kuranda Scenic Railway experience with our day tour packages.

Accessibility – Overview

Kuranda Scenic Railway is committed to providing a safe, accessible and enjoyable rail service for all customers. Our team have received accessibility awareness training and are willing and able to assist customers with a range of access requirements. Please advise at the time of booking if you or someone in your travel party requires accessible seating, additional assistance, or will be travelling with a guide, hearing or assistance dog or assistance animal. On the day of travel, please make yourself known to our team members on arrival if you’d like support. 

Eligible carers travel free of charge when accompanying people with disability who require their assistance. For reservations and enquiries please call 1800 577 245 or email ksrres@qr.com.au. 

Please note that due to the heritage nature of this experience, the ease of access to stations and carriages may vary. The train’s standard Heritage Class and Gold Class carriages are accessed by steep ladder-style steps with a grab rail at the top of the steps. Customers who may have difficulty using these steps or negotiating the gap between the train and the platform are encouraged to book into our carriage with accessible facilities, which is offered on every service. This carriage accommodates those wishing to book either the Gold Class or Heritage Class experience. 

The carriage with accessible facilities includes ramp or hydraulic lift access if required, optional tie-down straps for customers remaining on mobility devices, grabrails and contrasting surface colours. It also features an accessible unisex toilet with braille and raised text signage. Accessible toilets are also available at the Cairns, Freshwater and Kuranda Railway Stations for your convenience. Grassy areas suitable for toileting assistance animals are available nearby each station. 

The platform at Din Din (Barron Falls) is only accessible via stairs, with a significant height difference between the platform and the train. This means mobility aids cannot be used to join or leave the train at this platform. Customers with limited mobility may need to remain on board during this 10-minute stop. For further details about accessibility of the train and individual stations, please refer to the Kuranda Scenic Railway – Overview audio guide. 

Our team can guide customers who are blind or have low vision to or from their seat, accessible space, or the toilet facility entrance. They can also assist with carrying small hand-held luggage or small mobility aids such as walking frames and canes (up to 7 kilograms). 

Most types of wheelchairs or mobility scooters can be accommodated aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway services; however, size restrictions do apply. For full details, measurements and photographs, please refer to Kuranda Scenic Railway’s Accessible Travel webpage at ksr.com.au. 

We hope you enjoyed your virtual journey on the Kuranda Scenic Railway with us today and look forward to welcoming you onboard!