Kuranda scenic railway, Cairns

It's even better from Kuranda to Cairns! The commentary was informative, and I'd say, in this case, the description 'scenic' is well deserved. The train stops at Barron Falls for quite a while, so you can dismount, take your photos and get back on the same train. I don't know if this is a regular thing, but, at Barron Falls, the staff re-distributed the passengers so everyone got a window seat.

The Stoney Creek falls were just as spectacular. The train slows to a walking pace here ... to negotiate a tight turn, rather than to accommodate the photographers, but we're given plenty of warning that it's to happen.

There's only one thing that could improve it; that's if steam locos were used. But, I suppose that's impracticable, otherwise, they probably would.

This trip is the BEST way to go from Cairns to Kuranda - it’s a bit of a white knuckle ride in places - as you look down at …... nothing! EEK! The train goes through some pretty spectacular scenery & you can stop off at the wonderful Barron Falls & take some spectacular shots. You’ll see places where the former train tracks were - but now they lead to just an abyss. NOT trying to put you off here - they actually walk the track every morning before the train sets off to check that all is OK before they take you! - reassuring huh!
You go through many tunnels & the track is VERY bending - often you can see both end of the train when you look out of the carriage window.

The Kuranda Scenic Railway was built in the 1890’s & it must have been an engineering nightmare. It gives you a glimpse into how hostile this virgin country once was for the founders. You also see how totally magnificent this country was & still is!

Forget the tourist coaches to get from Cairns to Kuranda. Go up via the Scenic railway & make sure you go back from Karunda via the Skyrail - both of these wonderful attractions shouldn’t be missed! See my other review of the Skyrail.

PLEASE don’t miss these 2 wonderful trips - both are VERY rewarding!