North of Lakeside (approx. 30–40 mins by coach)Meet koalas, kangaroos, and platypuses in this renowned wildlife haven.
The Puffing Billy Railway is a journey through Dandenong Ranges’ most charming villages and forested landscapes. But here's the important bit:
Even though our standard tours end at Lakeside, this full-line map gives you a bird’s eye view of the iconic Puffing Billy Railway—from Belgrave to Gembrook.
Highlight: The train crosses the Monbulk Creek Trestle Bridge just after Belgrave—a top photo moment!
This is the route followed by most of our Puffing Billy train tickets—including all combo experiences with Phillip Island and Healesville.
Why it’s special: Ride through towering mountain ash trees, spot native birdlife, and enjoy free time to explore Emerald Lake Park—from lakeside trails to paddle boats.
A shorter ride but just as scenic—ideal for quick trips, school groups, or visitors with limited time.
Why choose this route? It’s a bite-sized journey through dense forest, packed with history and steam-train nostalgia. Plus, the museum at Menzies Creek gives kids and train lovers a closer look at vintage engines and railway memorabilia.
While the train sticks to the forested Puffing Billy Railway line, many of Headout’s full-day tours take you beyond by coach. Here's where you’ll go after the train:
The steam train runs from Belgrave through lush Dandenong Ranges to Menzies Creek, Emerald (including Nobelius siding), and Lakeside. On selected days, the full line continues a total of about 25 km to Gembrook.
No, Puffing Billy only operates on its Dandenong Ranges heritage line. Combined tours to Phillip Island or Healesville use coach transfers after the rail segment—not train connections.
Belgrave to Lakeside is approximately 1 hour one‑way (~4 km), with a return trip plus time at Lakeside totalling around 4 hours. The full Belgrave to Gembrook line spans ~24–25 km and takes about 1 h 50 min one‑way (allow 6 hours for a full return ride).
Standard tickets are for return travel between your selected start and end stations only, and do not allow getting off at stations in between.
Belgrave Station is the main departure hub (easy access, parking, cafe and souvenirs) and the most popular starting point. Lakeside is great if you prefer a shorter ride with Emerald Lake nearby.
Belgrave–Lakeside is the classic family-friendly option, runs daily, and includes time at Emerald Lake Park. Belgrave–Gembrook is longer, offered on select weekends or holidays, and includes a township stopover at Gembrook.
Station stops are announced onboard, and friendly staff will remind you. Your ticket clearly shows the return endpoint, so you’ll always know where your adventure ends.
Yes—many tour operators offer one-way Puffing Billy train rides combined with coach transfers back (or onward to attractions like Phillip Island or Healesville). It's a handy way to mix rail and road travel!
From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Steam Train Half-Day Tour with Transfers
From Melbourne: Puffing Billy Train Ride & Phillip Island Guided Tour
From Melbourne: Puffing Billy & Healesville Sanctuary Scenic Tour with Transfers