Clarence
Zig-Zag Railway
: The Zig-Zag Railway is open Fridays and weekends. Take a ride on the train, or maybe walk down to the bottom (walking track currently closed).
Logistics
Rail Trail Phase Eight
Clarence: Zig-Zag Railway – A Heritage Landmark on the Blue Mountains Rail Trail (Phase Eight)
he Zig-Zag Railway at Clarence is one of Australia’s most remarkable feats of 19th-century railway engineering, designed to conquer the steep terrain of the western Blue Mountains. Originally completed in 1869, the railway enabled trains to descend the dramatic escarpment via a series of switchbacks, or zig-zags, an innovative solution that became famous worldwide.
Today, the restored Zig-Zag Railway operates as a heritage attraction, offering visitors the chance to ride aboard steam and diesel locomotives, experiencing firsthand the challenges and triumphs of early railway travel. The station at Clarence serves as the gateway to this heritage marvel, where passengers can board vintage trains, explore historical exhibits, and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and sandstone formations. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, the Zig-Zag Railway offers a nostalgic and immersive journey into the past.
About
The Zig-Zag Railway’s Role in the Blue Mountains Rail Trail
As Phase Eight of the Blue Mountains Rail Trail, the Zig-Zag Railway represents the pinnacle of railway heritage in the region. This phase of the trail provides a direct link to one of the most significant and ambitious railway projects in Australian history, ensuring that visitors can experience the evolution of rail transport from the 19th century to today.
Historically, the Zig-Zag was crucial in enabling goods and passengers to travel between Sydney and the Central West, transforming the economy and opening new trade routes. Though the construction of the Ten Tunnels Deviation in 1910 made the Zig-Zag Railway obsolete for mainline services, its preservation as a working heritage railway ensures that its legacy remains alive. By integrating the Zig-Zag Railway into the Blue Mountains Rail Trail, cyclists and walkers can connect with this engineering marvel while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
The Zig-Zag Railway also serves as a symbol of community resilience, having been lovingly restored by volunteers after years of closure due to bushfires and storm damage. Its inclusion in the Rail Trail celebrates both the rich industrial history of the Blue Mountains and the dedication of those who continue to keep this important landmark operational.
Features
The Zig-Zag Railway’s Role in the Blue Mountains Rail Trail
Trail Features, Historical Context, and Future Expansion
Trail Features & Historical Context:
- The Clarence to Zig-Zag section of the Blue Mountains Rail Trail follows historic railway alignments, offering a blend of heritage and scenic beauty.
- Visitors can explore railway cuttings, viaducts, and sandstone embankments, providing a close-up view of 19th-century railway engineering.
- The trail includes interpretive signage detailing the history of the Zig-Zag Railway, its construction, and its impact on rail transport in Australia.
- Cyclists and walkers will enjoy panoramic views of the Lithgow Valley, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and native flora along the route.
- The Zig-Zag Railway itself provides an interactive experience, where visitors can board vintage trains and relive the experience of early railway travelers.
Benefits:
- Preserving Railway Heritage: The integration of the Zig-Zag Railway into the Blue Mountains Rail Trail ensures ongoing public engagement with this historic landmark.
- Eco-Friendly Tourism: By promoting cycling and walking, the Rail Trail enhances sustainable tourism, reducing reliance on cars while encouraging historical exploration.
- Community and Economic Growth: Increased visitor numbers support local businesses, cafes, and tourism initiatives, benefiting the Clarence and Lithgow areas.
- Educational Value: The trail serves as an outdoor museum, offering insights into railway history, engineering, and conservation efforts.
Future Expansion:
- Plans for additional trail connections between Clarence, Bell, and Lithgow will further integrate the Zig-Zag Railway into the broader Rail Trail network.
- Heritage interpretation projects will expand, incorporating augmented reality experiences that allow visitors to see historical images overlaid on the present-day landscape.
- There is potential for guided cycling tours and heritage walks, offering deeper insights into railway construction and the geological wonders of the region.
- Future collaborations with the Zig-Zag Railway restoration team could see enhanced visitor facilities, including picnic areas, viewing platforms, and upgraded trail surfaces.
As Phase Eight of the Blue Mountains Rail Trail, the Zig-Zag Railway is not just a stop along the way—it is a destination in itself. It offers a unique opportunity to travel through time, from the pioneering days of steam to the modern appreciation of railway heritage. Whether by bike, on foot, or aboard a vintage train, visitors can experience the past, present, and future of rail travel in the Blue Mountains.
Blog
The Latest Insights and Information
about the Blue Mountains Rail Trail
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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.
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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.