Bloomer Cut: A Railroad Relic
Step back in time at Bloomer Cut, an original segment of the Transcontinental Railroad, showcasing the grit and engineering marvels of the 1860s in Auburn, California.
Bloomer Cut, located in Auburn, California, is a remarkable and virtually unchanged segment of the original Transcontinental Railroad, completed in 1865. This engineering marvel, sometimes hailed as the "Eighth Wonder of the World," stands as a testament to the perseverance and ingenuity required to overcome the formidable obstacles encountered during the railroad's construction. The 800-foot-long cut, reaching depths of up to 63 feet, was carved through a ridge composed of a concrete-like mixture of rock and clay. Visitors can explore this historic site, imagining the arduous labor of the workers who blasted and chiseled their way through the challenging terrain. Bloomer Cut offers a tangible connection to a pivotal moment in American history, showcasing the ambition and grit that drove the nation's westward expansion.
A brief summary to Bloomer Cut
- 590 Rogers Ln, Auburn, California, 95603, US
- +1530-889-6500
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes for the walking trail to the cut, as the path can be uneven in places.
- Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there are no facilities on-site.
- Be aware of your surroundings and stay clear of the railroad tracks, as trains still use this route.
Getting There
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Driving
From I-80 Eastbound, take the Maple Street exit in Auburn and stay straight. Go through the stoplight and continue on Auburn Folsom Road for approximately 1.25 miles. Turn right onto Herdal Drive. Park at the end of Herdal Drive at Quinn Way. From I-80 Westbound, take the Hwy 49 Grass Valley/Placerville exit in Auburn and turn right onto Highway 49. Turn right onto Lincoln Way, then left at the next stoplight onto Auburn Folsom Road, and follow the directions above. Parking is free at the end of Herdal Drive.
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Public Transport
From the Auburn Transit Station on Nevada Street, you can use Auburn OnDemand, a city-provided ride-share service, to reach the intersection of Herdal Drive and Quinn Way, near Bloomer Cut. Book a ride through the GO South Placer Spare app or by calling the Transit Dispatcher. A single ride costs around $3.00. From there, walk the short trail to the cut.
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Walking
From the parking area at the end of Herdal Drive, continue east on foot through the greenbelt alley for about 0.2 miles until you reach the top of Bloomer Cut. A trail to the left leads down to the tracks. Be extremely cautious near the tracks.
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