Expedition journeys are longer experiences with the Rinadeena, Rack and Rainforest hosting station stops and off-train activities.
This journey is on one of our operating Abt Steam Locomotives. More about our Rolling Stock
Step aboard for a steam journey into the rainforest. Leaving the historic mining town of Queenstown, once connected to the outside world only by this railway, you will travel towards Rinadeena as the locomotive climbs under the power of the iconic Abt rack and pinion system.
Your first stop is Lynchford. Once alive with gold fever, it is now a quiet reminder of the early days of the West Coast. Try your hand at gold panning, explore the Pioneer's Room, or wander the station grounds and nearby mine shafts to uncover more stories from the 1880s.
From here the climb begins. Surrounded by dense rainforest, the train eases onto the Abt rack for the ascent towards the Rinadeena Saddle. This three kilometre section of railway is a feat of engineering and remains central to the cultural and historical significance of the line.
At Rinadeena Station, step into what was once a small settlement perched on the ridge. Families who lived here relied entirely on the rack railway to come and go from their remote homes. Take a short walk through the forest, enjoy the lookout, grab a bite to eat and capture a moment with the steam locomotive before boarding for the return trip, this time heading down the rack.
Once back in Queenstown, take your time. Visit the museum, browse the station displays, or enjoy a coffee at Tracks Café before continuing your day on the West Coast.
Our premium carriage offering, featuring upholstered booth seating for up to 26 passengers. Each booth has a small table between the seats. Your fare includes a glass of sparkling wine or non alcoholic option accompanied by a light meal service during your journey. This carriage also offers a balcony, perfect for up close and personal images with our wonderful locomotives, or the wilderness surrounds as you wind your way through the rainforest.
A comfortable carriage with upholstered booth seating for up to 40 passengers. Blankets are provided for those chilly days. These replica carriages are popular with groups and families during school holidays and have been lovingly crafted by our expert inhouse team.
We strongly recommend pre-booking tickets — services regularly sell out, particularly during peak season and school holidays. Tickets can be purchased at the station on the day if seats remain available.
The Rinadeena, Rack & Rainforest is one of our steam-hauled expedition journeys, operated by an original Abt steam locomotive.
Yes — please contact our reservations team to join the waitlist for sold-out dates. Cancellations occasionally free up seats.
This journey departs from Queenstown Station in Queenstown, Tasmania.
All departures are at 10am. Operating days vary by season: Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 4 May to 20 September 2026 (no departure on Saturday 18 July); Wednesday to Saturday from 21 September to 4 October 2026; and Tuesday to Saturday from 5 October to 31 December 2026.
Journey lead by one of our four original steam locomotives in operation. These Abt engines were used on the line when operated by the Mt Lyell Mining and Railway Co from 1896, making them 120+ years old! They have been restored and continue to be maintained regularly by our railway.
Our Abt engines have to work hard to climb the steepest steam haul in the southern hemisphere, a 1 in 16 grade, with the assistance of the Rack and Pinion system. This is located where our section of line approaches the Rinadeena Station, making it key to the journey.
Our railway travels through some of Tasmania's most cool, temperate rainforest, which receives over three metres of rain a year! The temperate climate here encourages unique species to grow and thrive and allows the opportunity for our passengers to experience this remarkable ecosystem.
With such a long history to share, stories from the line are never in short supply, this includes the interesting ones that we have chosen to go into a little more detail about onboard. Sit back, relax, and enjoy hearing just some of these incredible tales.
Loved the day on the train. Engine and carriages are on top condition. Staff were informative and attentive. Food served was tasty and enough. Some good photo opportunities from the open deck and at the stop, where more coffee and food is available.
Glen Hedger via Google
Wow, what a truly great adventure and experience! The crew were exceptional – from the initial welcome right through to the end. They were always smiling and happy to help, and their in-depth knowledge of the local flora and fauna was impressive and really enhanced our understanding. Their passion was evident and made the entire experience fantastic. We left feeling so glad we chose this tour!
Raph Claverie via Google
If you’re visiting Strahan, the West Coast Wilderness Railway is an absolute must-do experience. The journey is more than just a train ride – it’s like stepping back in time and reliving Tasmania’s wild pioneering history.
Christina Moses via Google
1.45hr return / 10am departure
The Agrarian Kitchen on Board from Strahan.
Step aboard a heritage Drewry diesel train at Regatta Point Station and settle in for a moving feast curated by one of Tasmania's most celebrated chefs.
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1.5hr return / 2:15pm departure
Step onboard our heritage train at Queenstown Station and take the 20-minute journey to Lynchford, once a centre for pioneers, adventurers and those with gold fever!
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1.45hr return / 10am departure
This short return journey offers a relaxed and accessible introduction to the West Coast's rivers, rainforest, and railway heritage. As the train eases away from the harbour in Strahan, our onboard guides share stories of the railway, the river, and the people who shaped this remarkable line.
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3hr return / 10am departure
Join the Driver and Fireman aboard an original Abt steam locomotive, ascending the 1:16 gradient under the power of the Abt rack and pinion system to Rinadeena Saddle and back again.
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Still unsure which journey might be for you, or have further questions about the journeys. Contact our team for more information, as we look forward to being able to welcome you aboard!
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