A conductor pulls into a station on a green West Coast Wilderness Railway train. We see steam in the background and a lush green forestscape next to the tracks. Photograph credit to Tourism Australia

Drive Car Hire is proud to partner with West Coast Wilderness Railway, a remarkable heritage train adventure covering 34.5km of track in the UNESCO recognised rainforest. With return rides starting either in Queenstown or Strahan, you can expect driving there to take between 3.5 – 4.5 hours from both Hobart and Launceston.

A unique tourism experience:

With tracks built through cliffs, rivers, and rainforest, the engineering behind the train route holds its own over 130 years after its construction. The environment is unforgiving and beautiful, and the tour explores histories of mining, gold fever, and the stories of the original pioneers on the track.

Following the contours of the land, the railway began operation in 1896, connecting Queenstown to townships beyond the King River until the 1963 closing of the original railway. Passenger trains resumed operating in 2002 and now offer 3 main journeys:

The Rinadeena, Rack, & Rainforest expedition

  • 3 hour return journey
  • Leaves from Queenstown with 2 stops
  • Mine shafts, steep ascents, and forest walks
  • Operational Tuesday through Saturday

The Cryptic express

  • 1.5 hour return journey
  • Leaves from Strahan
  • Fully seated with a local honey tasting included
  • Operational Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday

Want a little extra luxury? Try A Moving Feast on the Cryptic Express

When you book the premium carriage on the Cryptic Express, the Agrarian Kitchen has a special seasonal menu in store for you.

  • Celebrate Tasmanian produce and seasonal flavours
  • Enjoy each course designed to be enjoyed as your train winds through rainforest and river country

The Lynchford express

  • 1.5 hour return journey
  • Leaves from Queenstown with 1 stop
  • Gold rush stories aboard a restored steam locomotive
  • Operational on-demand
A heritage locomotive chugs through the West Coast rainforest. The green and red train is surrounded by steam. Credit: Tourism Australia
A train conductor checks a child's ticket on a sunny day in the West Coast of Tasmania. Tourism Australia - photography
An aerial shot of the West Coast Wilderness Railway train at one of the stations next to clear, blue water. Photograph by Tourism Australia
Photo by Tourism Australia displaying the interior of a West Coast Wilderness Railway train carriage and a few seated locomotive journey guests. The lamps are on and the windows and balcony show off the lush, green Tasmanian rainforest.

FAQ’s

Where are the West Coast Wilderness Railway stations located?

The address of the Queenstown station is 1 Driffield Street in Queenstown, TAS. The Regatta Point station is located at 68 Esplanade in Strahan, TAS. Each station has a cafe, mini-museum, and gift shop… enjoy!

How far is the Queenstown station from Hobart?

The start of the Queenstown railway tours is located about 4 hours driving from the Hobart CBD (Central Business District). Book your car hire and enjoy the sights!

We suggest allowing a little longer to stretch your legs and check out some beautiful short walks along the way.

How far is the Queenstown station from Launceston?

It takes 3 hours and 15 minutes to get from Launceston to the Queenstown West Coast Wilderness Railway station.

How far is the Strahan station from Hobart?

It’ll take you 4 hours and 40 minutes by car to get from Hobart to the Regatta Point Station in Strahan.

Enjoy the drive and let our team know if you want a few recommendations for stops along the way; we’re always happy to advise! Allow a little longer to stretch your legs – you might find something spectacular on a short walk.

How far is the Strahan station from Launceston?

It’ll take you 3 hours and 45 minutes by car to get from Launceston to West Coast Wilderness Railway’s Regatta Point Station. Enjoy the drive and let our team know if you’d like recommendations for stops on your way; we love to help!

Can I charge my EV onsite?

Yes! There are chargers available for your electric vehicle at the Queenstown station. The carpark is owned by the West Coast Council, who have installed a public use charging station adjacent to the main West Coast Wilderness Railway train station.

Tips for travelling

From Hobart to Tasmania’s West Coast

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