Steam train ride in Canberra, Australia
An unusual team train trip along the through the steeply-graded Tuggeranong hills and picturesque Melrose Valley, departing from Canberra Railway Station
This trip is almost 70km return and includes a stop for a picnic at Royalla. It takes about four hours and travels along the very beautiful Michelago tourist railway whisch is part of the former Queanbeyan-Cooma railway.
The rail link was opened in 1887, and the train uses well restored end-platform carriages which a 100 years ago were in operation around the Sydney network hauled by steam locomotives.
It’s an interesting journey for adults and children alike. There are many diversions along the way including wonerful scenery and lots of different animals to watch.
An hour’s stopover at Royalla leaves plenty of time to watch the engine running around the train, making ready for the return journey, a look at the rail fettlers’ shed and trolley – and for lunch.
Ocassionally the steam train locomotive, which is over 100 years old, needs urgent repairs and at these times a replacement diesel train takes the trip.