We enjoyed going on the Walhalla Railway which is a 20 min journey to Thomson Station with a 20 minute stopover at Thomson. You can buy a ticket from either station. If you choose not to go on the train trip the second best option would be to view the train going over the bridge near Thomson Station.
About Walhalla Goldfields Railway
The railway was opened in 1910 and was used to carry both freight and passengers when gold mining was as its peak in the area. The railway line originally went from Moe to Walhalla. The main mines closed in 1914 which resulted in many people leaving the area and then the railway line being reduced to run once a week by the 1930’s. Eventually some of the lines closed in 1944 by 1954 all lines were closed. In 1994 the Walhalla Goldfields Railway commenced rebuilding the railway line and reopened to Walhalla in March 2002.
Our Experience on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway
We boarded the train at the colourful, historical Walhalla Station. Whilst we waited for the train we wondered around the area and read up on some of the history of the town. The town prides itself on sharing the history. The railway is operated by volunteers whom are all very friendly and have a wealth of knowledge on the history of the railway.
The Walhalla Station is quite unique as it’s historical but also how it’s decorated with crochet. From the fences around the station to train engines!!
Its a step back in time as soon as you step onto the station and buy your train ticket. The ticket is an old fashioned yellow and blue cardboard ticket that once onboard a volunteer ticket inspector comes along and punches a whole in it. Brings back fond childhood memories.
Whilst the train by no means picks up a fast pace, it is a relaxing 20 min ride from Walhalla to Thomson Station. It is totally understandable why the train goes at the speed it does, the track is surprisingly windy. Within the first kilometer you travel over six large trestle bridges. As you weave though the valley you have wonderful views of where the Stringers Creek meanders into Thomson River. Sitting looking out the train window you can’t help but appreciate the effort taken back in the day to make the railway as the train takes you through jagged edge cliff faces. These stone walls were made by hand over 100 years ago. Ensure you keep your arms and heads inside the carriage!!
As the train is about to come into the Thomson Station you cross the bridge going over the Thomson River. This is where is would be great to be a bystander and witness the train crossing over the bridge, making a photographers highlight!! Whilst on the train you get a beautiful view of the Thomson River as the train crosses over the bridge.
Once you reach Thomson Station you have 20 minutes to wander around the station and you can view the nearby trestle bridge and read up on more history!
When leaving Thomson Station if you are sitting on the right hand side you can grab a photo as the train crosses the bridge. Whilst both sides offer different views our preference was to sit on the left hand side leaving from Thomson Station.
Nearby Attractions
We stayed in Walhalla for the weekend. The area is great for 4WD enthusiasts and trail bike enthusiasts. With a canoe trail nearby it’s also a popular spot for those wanting to explore the area on the river. As we have a camper van we were unable to explore the tracks that these adventurers love to explore!! Whilst in the area it is worthwhile checking out the below attractions. The only attraction we opted not to experience on this weekend getaway was the Walhalla Gold Mining Tour, hence there is no link for this. For the other attractions please click on the links to read up on our experiences.
- Walhalla Old Gold Mining Town
- Walhalla Gold Mining Tour
- Bruntons Bridge
- Thomson Dam
Free Campgrounds Nearby
We stayed at the nearby Coopers Creek Campground. The campground consists of two campgrounds. The campgrounds are suitable for tents, camper vans and caravans. The campground is walking distance to the Thomson River where again 4WD enthusiasts have fun crossing through the river. Whilst this looks like loads of fun as we were in the camper van we were unable to take on this adventure.
There is another free campground right next to the Bruntons Bridge where you get a lovely view of the bridge. When we were here the campground was being rejuvenated. It definitely looks like it will be a beautiful place to camp once it’s completed.
Walhalla Goldfields Railway Station Location
- Walhalla, Victoria 3825
- Approximately 183km, 2hrs 23 min East from Melbourne CBD
Feedback/Comments
What experiences have you had on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway or any other historical train? We’d love to hear about them.
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