Great Zig Zag

A zig zag is a series of reversing ramps. John Whitton, Engineer-in-Chief, NSW Government Railways, chose this as the economical method for the railway to descend from Clarence to Lithgow. Built during 1866-69 by contractor Patrick Higgins it involved massive rock excavations, a tunnel and three stone arch viaducts, and achieved world fame. During its 41 years of operation this great engineering work opened up the full potential of Western NSW.

A very early photograph of the Zig Zag as there is little regrowth of scrub and the bottom road is still single-track.

The Zig Zag photographed sometime after 1882 when the bottom road had been duplicated.

Top Points where descending trans made their first reversal.

A panoramic view from neat Top Points.

The Engineers Australia plaque on the Great Zig Zag.

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Great Zig Zag location map.

Engineering Heritage Recognition Program

Marker Type	National Engineering Landmark (NEL)
Award Date	5 November 1995
Heritage Significance	The Great Zig Zag was the engineering solution to the challenge of taking a railway across the Blue Mountains plateau.
Nomination Document	Available here.
Ceremony Booklet	Available here.
Ceremony Report	Available here.
Interpretation Panel	None Installed.