In this area, Interstate 80 traverses a rocky ridge know as the Hampshire Rocks.  This granite crest was named after the state of New Hampshire, also known as the “Granite State.”  In 1864, the Sacramento Union reported that the area possessed unusual quality stone, or “real hard granite,” as they stated. 

Along this portion of the freeway, several interesting locations are found.  These include Big Bend, a sweeping loop in the Yuba River.  At the Big Bend exit is an outstanding museum chronicling the development of this area.  Less than a mile east of the Big Bend Museum is Rainbow Lodge, an inn dating from the 1920s.  Prior to the building of Interstate 80 in the 1960s, this was a prominent stop along old Highway 40.  It remains a desirable destination today as the lodge features accommodations and an excellent restaurant.