All aboard the Prospector train: Travel to Kalgoorlie in style
Discover the smarter, smoother way to travel to Kalgoorlie on the Prospector
Why are more visitors choosing WA’s Prospector train to travel to Kalgoorlie?
From cityscapes to red dirt horizons, few journeys capture the spirit of Western Australia quite like this one. Hop aboard the Prospector train and you’ll quickly discover the journey is part of the destination!
Whether you’re travelling for adventure, business, or a bit of both, here’s why travelling on the Prospector train from Perth to Kalgoorlie-Boulder is well worth taking.
What is the Prospector?
Operated by Transwa, the Prospector is a high-speed regional train that’s been connecting Perth to the Goldfields since the 1970s. Designed to be both fast and comfortable, it covers 650 kilometres in just 6.5 to 7 hours, making it one of Australia’s quickest regional trains.
Running daily between Perth and Kalgoorlie, it offers a unique way to connect with the landscape, the towns, and the history that built The Wheatbelt and Goldfields. For locals, it’s a convenient and hassle-free way to travel to Perth and return without worrying about fuel prices or long drives. For visitors, it’s a chance to see a part of WA that few truly experience from the road or air.
A route steeped in stories
As the Prospector makes its journey from Perth, it weaves through various regional towns, each with its own character and history. If you’re travelling for leisure, you may want to consider stopping over at one of these towns.
Midland
The gateway to the Avon Valley. It was once a major railway workshop hub and is a nod to WA’s industrial past.
Toodyay
A charming heritage town nestled in the Avon Valley. While the Prospector doesn’t stop at Toodyay, if you’re a history buff, you’ll love to delve into the town’s colonial architecture, convict-era sites, including the legendary story of bushranger Moondyne Joe.
Northam
This town is known for its picturesque river setting and Federation-era buildings. Northam is also a hotspot for hot air ballooning. Other places worth checking out are the Northam Railway Museum and the town’s early settler roots.
Merredin
A major agricultural centre in the Wheatbelt, Merredin is brimming full of interesting sites relating to World War II. Make sure to pay a visit to the railway museum, check out the cool silo art and if you time it right, take in a show at Cummins Theatre.
Southern Cross
This Goldfields town boomed during the 1890s gold rush. Visit the Yilgarn History Museum to get a taste of early mining life and venture out to nearby salt lakes – a unique feature of the area.
Travel through gold rush country
Did you know the rail line follows the path early prospectors took when gold fever swept through the state in the late 1800s? Many of the towns that dot the route were built during this boo, and their stories live on in museums, heritage buildings, and the red dust roads that stretch beyond the train line, including CY O’Connor’s golden pipeline.
What makes the Prospector a great way to travel?
Perfect for families
Travelling with kids? The Prospector’s spacious reclining seats, air-conditioned comfort, onboard entertainment, and relaxed pace make train travel far easier than being cooped up in a car or rushing through the airport.
Ideal for business travel
Need to prepare for a meeting or catch up on work? With free onboard Wi-Fi, charging points and a peaceful atmosphere, the Prospector lets you turn travel time into productive time. Arrive in Kalgoorlie refreshed, focused, and ready to go, without the stress of flights or long drives.
Onboard comforts
With on-demand movies, snacks, and refreshments available to purchase and plenty of legroom, the Prospector is designed for comfort. Enjoy a light meal or bring your own food, stretch out and take in the view. Toilet facilities are available, and the train is fully wheelchair accessible. Whether you’re working, relaxing, or keeping the kids entertained, everything you need is right on board.
Once you arrive in Kalgoorlie-Boulder
Whether you’re heading to Kalgoorlie for work or play, there’s plenty more waiting for you when you arrive. Stroll down Hannan Street, visit the iconic Super Pit, explore local museums or enjoy the region’s vibrant arts and dining scene. Take a look at the best things to do in Kalgoorlie.
Prospector train schedule
If travelling from Perth, the Prospector departs from East Perth station once daily and twice on Monday and Friday, with flexible one-way travel or round-trip tickets available. We recommend reserving your seats early, especially during school holidays, as seats do fill up fast. Check the Transwa website for Prospector train prices and timetables.
Still torn between experiencing the Prospector Train and having a road-trip? Read our blog on the best way to road-trip from Perth to Kalgoorlie for more information!
Ready to book your stay in Kalgoorlie?
After a day of exploring, you’ll want somewhere comfortable to put your feet up. For the best location and expert staff, book a room with us at The Plaza Hotel.