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Monday, January 7, 2013

The Final Ride for Blue Mountains' Iconic Scenic Railway

Inline images 1

The world's steepest passenger railway incline at 52 degrees on a journey that has thrilled 25 million people on almost 700,000 journeys to the pristine rainforest floor.

The Katoomba-based train, fondly known as the 'Mountain Devil' will be replaced by a $30 million train, tracks and new visitor experiences in April.

Scenic Railway Facts

• The historic railway was built in 1878 to service mining activities in the valley;

• Harry Hammon purchased the lease in 1945 turning the Scenic Railway into a major tourist attraction;

• The railway track spans 310m through a cliff side tunnel and through a rainforest corridor;

• The top station is 604 metres above sea level;

• The current carriage takes 84 passengers and operates every 10 minutes;

• In 1945 the Scenic Railway cost 1 shilling to ride and sixpence for children;

• Each train has been named “Mountain Devil’ after the native plant;

• The term ‘Scenic Railway’ dates back to late 19th Century England amusement rides;

• The new Scenic Railway train will be the sixth and will operate at the same speed of 16km an hour.



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The Expeditionist

The Expeditionist
Venturing to the world's special places