Puffing Billy Railway 💎 Hidden Gem

Thick fern-tree gully forest presses close to both sides of the track and the steam whistle pierces the green canopy as Puffing Billy rounds a curve in a cloud of white steam.

History of Puffing Billy Railway

Puffing Billy steam train through Dandenong Ranges green forest Victoria Australia

Puffing Billy is one of five narrow-gauge railways built by Victorian Railways in the 1890s and early 1900s to serve isolated farming communities in the hills east of Melbourne. Construction of the line from Belgrave to Gembrook was completed in 1900.

The line closed in 1953 following a landslide, with a government decision not to repair it. This sparked one of Australia first heritage railway preservation campaigns. The railway is entirely staffed by volunteers, making it one of the world largest volunteer-operated heritage railways.

What to See

Vintage steam locomotive heritage railway with passengers on open wooden carriages

The most popular journey runs from Belgrave to Lakeside station beside Emerald Lake, a round trip of about 24 kilometres through fern gully scenery. The lake has paddle boat hire, a model railway, and park facilities.

The open wooden carriages with benches allowing passengers to dangle their legs over the sides are the most photographed element of the Puffing Billy experience.

The Dandenong Ranges

Narrow gauge steam train through fern gully forest with hanging tree ferns

The Dandenong Ranges through which Puffing Billy travels are a remnant of ancient Gondwana rainforest, a cool temperate forest of mountain ash, myrtle beech, and tree ferns. The ranges rise to 633 metres at Mount Dandenong, creating their own microclimate with higher rainfall and misty mornings.

Autumn (March-May) is the most spectacular season, with European deciduous trees planted by early settlers turning gold and red among the native forest.

Practical Information

  • Tickets: Belgrave to Lakeside return from AUD 61 adults (2025); book online at puffingbillyrailway.org.au
  • Opening hours: Trains operate daily (check timetable); departures from Belgrave typically from mid-morning
  • Best time to visit: Year-round; autumn for foliage; winter for atmospheric misty mornings
  • Duration: Belgrave to Lakeside return approximately 2.5 hours; full day trip to Gembrook approximately 6 hours
  • Booking: Online booking essential; tickets cannot be purchased on the day

Local Insights

Dandenong Ranges fern gully forest Victoria Australia with mountain ash trees

What locals know that guidebooks do not always tell you:

  • Book midweek in winter for the most atmospheric experience: misty fern gullies, steam hanging in the cold air, and carriages with almost no other passengers.
  • The Monbulk Road bridge is the iconic photograph location; wait for the train to pass through for a classic steam-through-the-forest shot.
  • The Train of Lights winter event (July-August) sells out months in advance; book immediately when tickets open each year.
  • Menzies Creek station has a Railway Museum where you can see historic locomotives and carriages.
  • Combine the Puffing Billy trip with lunch at Emerald Lake and a forest walk for the perfect Melbourne day trip; allow about 6-7 hours total from central Melbourne.

Getting There

  • By train: Metropolitan Belgrave line from Flinders Street Station to Belgrave; approximately 70 minutes
  • By car: Belgrave is approximately 45 km from central Melbourne; parking at Belgrave station
  • Package options: Day trip packages from Melbourne CBD combining transport and train ticket available
  • On foot: Belgrave station connects directly to the Puffing Billy terminus platform

Frequently asked questions

Can I sit with my legs hanging out of the carriage?

Yes. This is a long-standing Puffing Billy tradition. Children must be supervised at all times and should not lean out of the carriage.

Do I need to book in advance?

Yes. As of 2025, tickets must be purchased in advance and cannot be bought on the day. Book at puffingbillyrailway.org.au.

Is Puffing Billy accessible for wheelchairs?

Wheelchair-accessible carriages are available by pre-booking on 03 9757 0700. Advise at booking time for the necessary platform and carriage assistance.

What is the difference between the various routes?

The Belgrave to Lakeside section covers the best fern gully scenery. The extension to Gembrook adds farmland and historic township stops.

Is there anything to do at Emerald Lake station?

Yes. Emerald Lake Park has paddle boat hire, a miniature railway, barbecue areas, a cafe, and walking tracks through the surrounding forest.

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