Frequently Asked Questions


   

 

  • What side of the tram is the best to sit on?
    Both sides are great. We have open windows and clear glass which allows for good viewing out of either side of the tram from all seats.

  • Does the tram loop around and come back?
    The Tram runs on a railway line linking Pemberton to Northcliffe. The trams can be driven from either end. They head South along the line to get to the Cascades to return heading North.

  • Can we bring drinks/food on the tram?
    Yes, you’re welcome to bring a picnic or snacks to eat on the tram, or during your 25 mins stopover at the Cascades.

  • Can we book seats together?
    It’s first come, first seat situation. You are invited to find your seats 15min prior to departure, plenty of time to ensure you find seats together. For larger groups, the driver will ask you to board earlier than others.

  • What attire is suitable? Sneakers or comfortable shoes are most appropriate for good grip. Also, dress warmly and we strongly recommended taking a coat in/around winter. We have umbrellas and blankets available at the station and on the tram as required.
  • Can we swim at the Cascades?
    Not really, you can put your feet in the water at the Cascades but there isn’t enough water to swim. It will depend on the season, summer water levels are lower than winter.

  • Is there shade at the Cascades?
    Yes, the Cascades are surrounded by dense forest which keeps a thick canopy above you.

  • Can we take wheelchairs, walkers or prams on the Tram?
    We can assist wheelchairs into the drivers compartments at each end of the tram, through the use of ramps. Please advise us prior to your tour so that we can arrange this. Although wheelchairs can't access the main seating area of the tram, the drivers compartment is arguably one of the best viewing locations. Walkers and prams may also be stored in the drivers compartment and guests are welcome to use a stool in this area if they wish to stay by their walkers or prams. Unfortunately there is no room for these in the main seating area of the trams and aisles need to be kept clear.  As well as a wooden step to climb into the Tram at the station, there are a number of wooden steps down from the small platform to the bush tracks at the Cascades. These bush tracks are rough and unsuitable for walkers or prams as there is no bitumen. If mobility is an issue we are happy for customers to stay onboard the tram while others explore the Cascades. The journey itself is the main attraction, with the Cascades being an added bonus. 

  • Can we take dogs on the Tram?
    Yes, we are dog friendly but just let us know at the counter and pay the ticket fee for your fluffy friend. Please make sure you pick up after them and are aware of other guests who my not be ‘dog people’. Take note of the signs at the Cascades and don't cross to the other side of the river with your dog.

  • Are there Mosquitos or Flies at the Cascades?
    Yes, in Australian summer and near water, our wonderful insect populations do flourish at certain times of the year.

  • How long do we have to stop at the Cascades?
    You will have 25 minutes at the Cascades to enjoy and wander along the bush paths, the Tram driver will sound the horn 5 minutes before departure. Please pay attention to our map and guide supplied in the trams to avoid getting lost.

  • What do you mean by One-Way ticket?
    This provides the opportunity for you to experience a one way journey on the tram. You can jump off at the Cascades and walk or drive back to town, or you can even jump on at the Cascades if you would like a lift back to town. The Cascades meet with the Bibbulmun track which leads through the bush back to the Gloucester Tree and the Pemberton townsite. This walk is 10km from the Cascades to the Station or 6km to the base of the Gloucester Tree Hill. Please allow up to 3 hours. There have been a variety of logistical options people take (try Pemberton Discovery Tours to arrange drop-offs) and this provides the opportunity for anyone who wishes to explore more. Please ask the Station Officer for maps to assist with this hike.

  • Can we take Bikes on the Tram?
    No, if you are planning to take a One-Way ticket and cycle back to Pemberton, bikes are not allowed on the Bibbulmun track. If you wish to cycle back via the main road we may be able to accommodate your bike depending on how busy the tram is.

  • What is the history of the Tramway?
    The line from Jardee to Pemberton was constructed by the Public Works Department and opened as a State Saw Mills tramway on 20 January 1914. The line was constructed to connect the Pemberton Saw Mill to service the sleeper contract for the Trans-Australian Railway project. The railway lines between Pemberton and Northcliffe were constructed between 1929-1933. At over 36km in length and seven railway bridges, it was the most expensive railway per mile by any government by it’s completion, an estimated cost of £10,000 per mile, the line was unique in Western Australia. On the main line a mixture of karri, jarrah and wandoo sleepers were used. As the cost of the project had blown out considerably, it was decided to terminate the line at Northcliffe rather than Westcliffe.

    For 50 years the line did provide an important transportation link which allowed the development of the region, bringing to it the necessary farm materials, including superphosphate, and carrying away the timber and agricultural produce of the area, as well as providing transport for people. In December 1986 the Pemberton to Northcliffe Railway was closed to traffic. In 1987 it was leased to Mr R Pearson, trading as Pemberton Tramway Co to be developed as a tourist venture, operating as a light railway. That same year the tourist tramway was officially opened, utilizing three light-weight rail cars, custom made by Willis Light Engineering of Rivervale. In July 1996 the tramway was classified by the National Trust of Australia. It was considered ‘an engineering masterpiece, including some of the finest timber bridge construction in the State’.

  • When was the Train Station built?
    The Pemberton Train Station was built in 1926.
  • Can Children travel alone?
    No, all children must be accompanied by an adult.