A single track rail connection was established on the northern side of the gorge; it was completed in 1891 and is now part of the Palmerston North-Gisborne Line. The rail connection is mainly used by goods trains; there are currently no scheduled passenger rail services through the gorge. Occasional railway excursions, typically with steam trains, also make use of the scenic Manawatu Gorge Railway line with its two tunnels and several small bridges.