Hewn out of the living rock in the 1860s using hand tools and blasting powder, Big Hill Cutting was at one time the deepest railway cutting in the southern hemisphere. Taken as it was near the eastern end of the cutting, even this pic doesn't properly illustrate the depth.

The cutting has a long and macabre history, with several workers killed during its construction due to a blasting accident and several drivers later perishing after crashing their automobiles through the old timber bridge's guardrails and down onto the rails below. Despite the history, it's a peaceful and beautiful place.

The old railway line was abandoned in the 1970s and runs for around 50km between the towns of Thirlmere and Mittagong. Although not a proper rail trail, there are service trails parallelling the railway for much of its length. I've walked it a few times, including the trip pictured which was undertaken 2-Boot-Drive Swagman style ;-)

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Top Mittagong Pet-friendly Hotels

Our top choices for Mittagong pet-friendly hotels

Breakfast, lunch, dinner served; garden views

"Great place to stay"

SAR 486 total

includes taxes & fees

31 Aug - 1 Sep

Lounge

"Lovely stay. "

SAR 577 total

includes taxes & fees

31 Aug - 1 Sep

Luxury Villa | Terrace/patio

"A good vacation rental to clear your mind."

SAR 965 total

includes taxes & fees

31 Aug - 1 Sep

Porch

"Exceptionally helpful and generous staff, stunning historical accommodation and beautiful gardens. Extremely practical and understanding property for a stay with pets."

SAR 851 total

includes taxes & fees

3 Sep - 4 Sep

Fireplace

"So relaxing and great facilities for kids and adults."

SAR 798 total

includes taxes & fees

9 Sep - 10 Sep

TV, fireplace

" Nice place to stay before our wedding."

SAR 828 total

includes taxes & fees

8 Sep - 9 Sep

Sauna

"Wonderful property, stayed short weekend. Perfect location."

SAR 935 total

includes taxes & fees

2 Sep - 3 Sep

Property grounds

"Excellent family friendly property. Amazing host, very generous with my kids, kind, respectful and considerate. Walk everywhere. Roomy quarters. Fluffy bath towels and toiletry items. Dog friendly. Recommend "

SAR 931 total

includes taxes & fees

1 Sep - 2 Sep

Top Mittagong Hotel Reviews

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