Heritage Railcar Journey in Mt Barker | Steam Ranger
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
No specific fitness required; suitable for all ages and mobility levels
Overview
Ride the historic Bugle Ranger railcar through the Adelaide Hills from Mt Barker to Philcox Hill. Discover scenic hilltops, heritage relics, and inviting open forests on this one-hour heritage railway trip.
The Bugle Ranger | Mt Barker - Bugle Ranges 11.30am
A short family-orientated railcar ride through the Adelaide Hills
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the charm of the Adelaide Hills aboard the Bugle Ranger train, a delightful one-hour journey on a heritage "Red Hen" railcar. Travel to the scenic Philcox Hill station, the highest point on the line, and explore remnants of its vibrant history before returning to Mt Barker. A unique adventure awaits!
Looking for something to do next time you are in the Adelaide Hills and don't want to spend an arm and a leg doing it?
Our Bugle Ranger train represents great value for money. A fun and economical way to spend an hour on rail!
The train departs from SteamRanger's Mt Barker station where there is plenty of car parking. If you are coming by bus, the station is right at Transit Plus' Mt Barker bus interchange.
The one hour trip aboard our heritage "Red Hen" railcar will take you southwards from Mt Barker to the very peak of the ranges at the now closed Philcox Hill station site. Situated in an opening in the trees on level ground, the station site is the highest point on the line (1,304 feet or nearly 398 metres above sea-level)
In years gone by trains travelling northwards and southwards could pass each other at Philcox Hill. Located here was a goods siding where rock was loaded from a local quarry. The rock was brought from the quarry along a one-kilometre long horse tramway to the east of the line. A walking track remains as evidence. Today remnants of a platform, a telephone box and well-kept station name board are the only things to indicate this rather interesting and once very busy location.
Leaving Philcox Hill the track winds around Bonython Hill (on the right) in a semi-circle and then, after going through several cuttings reaches the site of the old Bugle Ranges station.
The former station was provided mainly to cater for Macclesfield people as compensation for the Government not being able to take the line through their town. This station initially had three tracks as well as a number of signals and its own signal cabin. The station existed well into the 1970s. The rather extravagant signal cabin on the other hand was removed to Long Gully in the National Park on the Main South line after less than two years use!
After a brief pause to allow the railcar driver to move to the other end of the railcar we then head off back up the hill to Philcox Hill and then back to Mt Barker.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Parking
The Mt Barker station offers ample parking; arriving early ensures a stress-free start.
Bring a Camera
Capture the panoramic views from Philcox Hill and the heritage railcar’s vintage charm.
Check the Weather
Conditions can shift quickly on the hilltops; dress in layers for comfort throughout the ride.
Accessible for All Ages
This ride is family-friendly with minimal physical demands, perfect for travelers of all fitness levels.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kangaroos grazing near the track during early morning
- Varied parrots and native honeyeaters frequenting the surrounding woodland
History
Philcox Hill station was once a bustling goods siding facilitating quarry rock transport via a horse tramway, playing a key role in local industry until the mid-20th century.
Conservation
Steam Ranger Heritage Railway maintains sustainable practices by preserving historic rail infrastructure and promoting low-impact tourism in the Adelaide Hills.
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Adventure Hotspots in Adelaide
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered Clothing
Allows comfortable adjustment to changing temperatures during the trip.
all specific
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protects from strong sun when waiting outdoors or riding on sunny days.
summer specific
Camera or Smartphone
For capturing heritage scenes and the striking landscape from Philcox Hill.
Light Rain Jacket
Useful for sudden showers or mist common in cooler months.
spring|fall|winter specific