Rinadeena, Rack & Rainforest

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.