Scenic World's four-car train approaches the bottom station on the Scenic Railway at Katoomba, NSW, Australia. This incline funicular is described as both the steepest passenger railway and funicular in the world, dropping 250 metres (820 feet) over a distance of 310 metres (1,017 feet) - with a grade that tops out at 52 degrees as the line cuts through the cliff wall near Orphan Rock. Built during the 1880s, originally to serve shale oil mining interests in the Jamison Valley, the incline gradually attracted more and more (unofficial) tourist visitors until its use eventually shifted from mineral haulage to exclusive tourist service in 1945. The incline was completely overhauled and upgraded during January-April 2013, during which time the current Swiss-built train was commissioned. The new "Mountain Devil Mark V" train consists of 4 carriages - named (in order) Harry, Mary, Philip and Peta. They are named for 1st and 2nd generation members of the Hammon family, owner/operators of the Scenic World park that the funicular is now part of.
