Victoria · Attraction
Puffing Billy Railway
A century of steam adventure
schedule 1 min read / Updated Jun 2026
The Puffing Billy Railway has been carrying passengers through the fern gullies and mountain ash forests of the Dandenong Ranges since 1900. Departing from Belgrave, the narrow-gauge steam train winds through 24 kilometres of spectacular scenery to Gembrook, with popular stops at Menzies Creek and Lakeside in Emerald Lake Park. It is one of the best-preserved steam railways in the world.
The journey begins at Belgrave station, where vintage steam locomotives fire up for runs through towering forests, across trestle bridges, and past rolling green hills. Passengers of all ages enjoy the open-sided carriages, a tradition that has defined the experience for generations. The railway runs daily except Christmas Day, with multiple departure times from Belgrave each morning and afternoon.
Along the route, the Menzies Creek station hosts a railway museum worth a wander, while the Lakeside terminus sits beside the beautiful Emerald Lake Park, where picnic lawns, a waterwheel, and paddle boats await. The full run to Gembrook passes through farming country and small townships before reaching the end of the line in the Southern Ranges.
Booking ahead is strongly recommended as popular sessions sell out well in advance. Families, rail enthusiasts, and visitors looking for a relaxed scenic experience all find something to love. Special event trains, including evening dining journeys and seasonal themed rides, run throughout the year.
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Scenic views
