The section of line between Andelfingen and Schaffhausen proved particularly difficult and costly to build, including as it needed major bridges across the rivers Rhine and Thur, together with a tunnel under Laufen Castle.

The Swiss Northeastern Railway (NOB) acquired the Rheinfallbahn-Gesellschaft on 4 November 1856 prior to the line's opening, providing connections to Zurich and beyond.

In 1902, the NOB became part of the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS), who retain ownership of the line.

However in that year the Eglisau to Neuhausen line opened, providing a shorter route to Zurich via Bülach that is now used by all long distance trains.

It is 30.45 kilometres (18.92 mi) long, standard gauge and electrified at 15 kV  16.7 Hz AC supplied by overhead line.