Kuranda Scenic Rail
It was 1882 when the Queensland Premier Sir Samuel Griffiths turned the first sod for the line which was to be built in three stages. Dense jungle and cliffs with sheer drops of up to 327 metres and a slope as steep as 45 degrees were literal death traps for workers. Somehow, without modern equipment but simply fortitude, dynamite and bare hands the team eventually finished the job.
After removing 2.3 million metres of earthworks, creating 15 tunnels, 93 curves, dozens of bridges and 75 kilometres of track, a banquet high up on the bridge with General Sir Henry Wiley Norman, Governer of Queensland marked the completion of Stoney Creek Bridge. Shortly after in June of 1891 the line was open for everyone to enjoy.
The original Kuranda Scenic Railway is truly a legendary demonstration of man’s ingenuity and nature’s wonder.
Our world famous railway experience is a must-do when visiting Cairns and Tropical North Queensland, Australia. You will discover the pioneering history of the tropical north from way back in the late 1800's, be astounded by a magnificent engineering feat and explore some of the great characters involved in the construction of this great railway.
Explore the past and enjoy the present on the wonderful Kuranda Scenic Railway.
Contact
- Telephone: 07 4036 9333
- Website: www.ksr.com.au
- Address: The Kuranda Scenic Railway can be joined at Cairns Railway Station or Freshwater Connection for morning departures to Kuranda. Journeys from Kuranda Station to Cairns run in the afternoon.
Opening Hours
Departs Cairns Central Station at 8.30am & 9.30am.
Departs Kuranda 2.00pm & 3.30pm for return to Cairns.
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