Construction of this railroad started in 1910, and was used to serve a large quarry near Cool, CA. and haul the limestome mined there to a connection with the SP at Flint (Auburn),CA. The line used 17 trestles, a large triple arch concrete bridge, plus a switchback to make this seven mile trip. The bridge was completed in 1912 by the Pacific Portland Cement Company and service began later the same year. Just east of there the line crosses CA. State Route 49. On one photo caption, it is said that this is the only grade crossing in North America where the trains had to stop for automobiles. Service essentially ended in 1939 and the rails were torn up and scrapped in 1941 for the war effort.
Much of the roadbed as well as the "No Hands Bridge" still exists and has been incorporated into the world famous Western States Trail and is used for hiking and equestrian purposes. Portions toward the Auburn end were completely destroyed during preparation for construction of the Auburn Dam. Improvement of the trails continue along with interpretive signs being placed at No Hands Bridge, the Quarry Trail trailhead, and along with park benches, the quarry crusher/loadout.
