Blaxland

A Living Link to Railway Heritage, Community, and Family Fun

Blaxland marks the second waypoint along the Blue Mountains Rail Trail journey from Glenbrook to Oberon. This vibrant stopover offers a unique fusion of local history, natural bushland, and railway nostalgia, centred around the much-loved Wascoe Siding Miniature Railway. Whether you’re cycling through or on foot, Blaxland offers both a heritage encounter and a great family destination.

Rail Trail Waypoint Two

Wascoe Siding miniature railway

Heritage Highlight: Wascoe Siding Miniature Railway
Nestled in the heart of Blaxland, the Wascoe Siding Miniature Railway is a volunteer-run gem that draws families, railway enthusiasts, and curious travellers from near and far. Operated by the Blue Mountains Railway Society, this beloved attraction features rideable miniature steam and diesel locomotives looping through lovingly landscaped grounds.

Open to the public on the first Sunday of each month, Wascoe Siding also houses railway memorabilia, shaded picnic areas, and a warm, welcoming community. It’s a living homage to the railways of yesteryear—and a highlight of this waypoint on the trail.

About

Why Stop at Blaxland?

• Historic Corridor – The trail through Blaxland follows part of the original railway alignment, echoing the iron routes that transformed the Blue Mountains.

• Family-Friendly Fun – With the miniature railway and scenic bushland walks, Blaxland is a perfect family rest stop.

• Easy Access – Located along the Great Western Highway and the Main Western Line, Blaxland is a great trail access point.

• Bushland Vistas & Rail Relics – The surrounding environment offers native flora, birdsong, and glimpses of historic rail features.

Features

Blaxland – Features & Highlights

Historical Context

The Blaxland Waypoint on the Blue Mountains Rail Trail traverses a historically rich stretch of the original rail corridor, offering a vivid glimpse into the region’s transport legacy. Central to this stop is the much-loved Wascoe Siding Miniature Railway, a volunteer-operated gem that brings railway history to life in miniature form.

The trail alignment in this area mirrors the early routes used during the expansion of rail into the Blue Mountains. Visitors can explore traces of the original track formations and embankments, while interpretive signage helps uncover stories of rail construction, innovation, and community transformation over time. This waypoint reflects how the railway once shaped—and continues to connect—life in the mountains.

Trail Features and Benefits

Blaxland offers a versatile, well-formed pathway ideal for walking, cycling, and family outings. The trail meanders through natural bushland, past historic cuttings, and toward welcoming rest areas and vistas. The Wascoe Siding Miniature Railway offers a memorable detour, where travellers of all ages can experience the charm of rideable steam and diesel locomotives.

Designed to support accessibility and eco-tourism, this section of the Rail Trail blends recreation with education, creating a space where community and history meet. Whether you’re discovering it for the first time or returning for a nostalgic ride at Wascoe Siding, Blaxland encourages deeper engagement with the railway spirit of the Blue Mountains.

Future Expansion

As a key stop along the journey from Glenbrook to Oberon, the Blaxland Waypoint plays an important role in the broader Rail Trail vision. Planned developments include enhanced signage, additional rest and lookout areas, and more immersive interpretive storytelling to guide visitors through both natural and man-made landmarks.

The growing Rail Trail aims to connect more heritage rail sites, villages, and bushland escapes—creating a continuous and compelling experience. In time, the Blaxland Waypoint will become one of many vibrant hubs along a living heritage corridor, celebrating the Blue Mountains’ past while inspiring new journeys.

Fantastic New Addition to the Trail

“The Blaxland section is an exciting extension of the Blue Mountains Rail Trail! The mix of history, nature, and recreation makes it a must-visit. Walking or cycling through this scenic stretch, with its stunning bushland and historic railway features, was an unforgettable experience. The Wascoe Siding miniature railway was an unexpected delight—perfect for families and railway lovers alike!”
Sarah J., Penrith

Great for Families and History Buffs

“This part of the Rail Trail is perfect for a weekend outing. The pathway is well-maintained, with beautiful scenery and lots of fascinating railway history along the way. My kids absolutely loved the Wascoe Siding miniature railway—it added a fun and nostalgic touch to the adventure. Can’t wait to see how the trail continues to develop!”
Tom R., Springwood

A Scenic Ride with Railway Heritage

“Cycling along the Blaxland section of the Rail Trail was incredible! The views are spectacular, and the connection to railway history gives the ride extra meaning. Stopping at the Wascoe Siding miniature railway was a real highlight—seeing the working miniature trains in action was a treat. This trail is a fantastic way to explore the Blue Mountains in a whole new way!”
Liam P., Katoomba

Blog

The Latest Insights and Information

about the Blue Mountains Rail Trail

 

All Aboard for Family Fun: Sunday, 6 July 2025

All Aboard for Family Fun: Sunday, 6 July 2025

Chris Webber on the 13th March announced that, with the assistance of the Blue Mountains Historical Society, a Blue Mountains Rail Trail has now been created, combining 13 different sites throughout the Greater Blue Mountains, from Lapstone to Oberon via Lithgow.

Glenbrook Historical Society has several guided walks

Glenbrook Historical Society has several guided walks

Chris Webber on the 13th March announced that, with the assistance of the Blue Mountains Historical Society, a Blue Mountains Rail Trail has now been created, combining 13 different sites throughout the Greater Blue Mountains, from Lapstone to Oberon via Lithgow.