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Essential Truckee

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• The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
• Hyatt Vacation Club at Northstar Lodge
• Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe
• Hampton Inn & Suites Tahoe-Truckee
• Donner Lake Village
• Pianeta Ristorante
• Moody's Bistro Bar & Beats
• Jax At The Tracks
• Bar of America
• Northstar California
• Historic Downtown Truckee
• Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum
• Donner Pass
• Donner Lake
• Truckee River: Boca to Floriston Run (Class III Whitewater)
• Half Day Guide Trip
• Guided Fly Fishing on Truckee River, Lake Tahoe, Truckee and Reno
• Local Sustainable Food Tour in Lake Tahoe
• Truckee River Rafting - PM Guided Whitewater Half Day Trip

26 Best Things to Do and See in Truckee, California in 2023

09/17/2023 by Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

This guest post is by Nina Clapperton .

You might ask: Why would someone go to the snowiest place in California in December? Because a friend offered me a free house, and I didn’t do my research!

That’s how I ended up solo in Truckee, snowed in in a cabin for three days.

Once I shoveled my way out, I fell in love with Truckee. There are so many things to do, from hiking the Donner Peak to tastings at a winery. 

It’s an incredibly dog-friendly place, too!

I spent a month in the town, and still wish I’d had time to do even more. To help you plan your trip, I’ve gathered the 26 best things to do and see in Truckee this year.

Table of Contents

1. Historic Downtown Truckee

Downtown Truckee is a great first stop. It’s a cute, Old West town that shows Truckee’s start as a trading post. Almost everything is within five city blocks and is easily walkable.

You’ll find quaint tourist shops, like California 89 for tees or Nomad Boutique for dresses. My favorite is Bespoke , a women-owned business with local artwork and crafts, including amazing notebooks!

Downtown is also the best place to find coffee. I toured every coffee shop (for science!) and found the best lattes at Dark Horse Coffee Roasters Truckee . It opens at 7am, so it’s a perfect stop after an early-morning run by the river or before skiing.

Truckee is a small town, so most things are closed Monday and/or Tuesday. If you’re planning a short visit, come on a weekend or later in the week. 

2. Donner Memorial State Park

My favorite place to hike is Donner Memorial State Park. It’s dog friendly but requires that the animals be leashed at all times.

It’s best to snowshoe if you’re visiting in winter. I was able to off-road and go on quieter trails this way. If you just want to walk to the beach of Donner Lake and back, you can do it without them. 

In summer, the beach is a great place to take a dip. It’s sandy with only a few large rocks.

First thing in the morning, you’ll get perfect reflections around the lake. Pack a picnic and spend your whole day enjoying the area.

You can also learn more about the first pioneers by taking a free tour from the park rangers at the Emigrant Trail Museum. However, I just walked the trail myself with my dog and read the plaques (it’s pretty short).

Parking costs $10 per vehicle in the summer (May–September) and $5 in winter (October–April). The pass is good all day, so you can stay as long as you want.

3. Truckee River Regional Park Legacy Trail

A local told me about this trail along the Truckee River, and it became my go-to for morning walks. This trail is common for dog owners and locals who want to sip their coffee and enjoy the views but not climb a mountain. In the winter, it’s plowed so you can safely walk it.

The path is very flat and has trash bins along the way, so you can scarf down a few scones and not have to carry the wrappers the whole way.

The paved trail follows the river and connects to the Tahoe-Pyramid Trail, so you could technically get all the way to Reno ! You’d definitely want to rent an electric bicycle for that if, like me, you’re terrible at riding a bike. 

Parking is a bit hard to find, but if you turn east onto East River Street, you’ll find free parking on the street at the end. Cars start parking there at sunrise, so you’ll see others around. Or park in downtown Truckee and walk over.

4. Hiking at Donner Peak

Fancy a climb? Donner Peak is the best-known trail in Truckee. It’s named for the famed Donner Party — literally the only thing I knew about Truckee before I arrived to six-foot snowfalls. 

The Donner group of migrants were traveling to California in 1846 when an October storm surprised the travelers on their way to find new hope in the West and they got snowed in at what is now Donner Pass. Unprepared for the delay, they were stuck all winter long, and some resorted to cannibalism to survive.

Aside from this grisly history, this peak offers gorgeous views of the fir trees and the blue Lake Mary nearby. It’s about 6km (3.7 miles) out and back, with close to 275m (900 feet) in elevation.

Unfortunately, it’s not well marked. So download the AllTrails map ahead of time to keep track of where you’re going. Plan for mud and snow, and bring hiking poles.

If you’re hiking this in winter, I highly recommend crampons to help with the snow. I wore snowshoes and felt a bit unsturdy toward the end, although that might have been from my dog pulling me to get to the top faster for his treat.  Here’s a complete list of what to wear when winter hiking to help you get prepared.

5. West End Beach

West End Beach is a popular summer spot, so get there early for a good space! The sandy beach can get a bit loud, so I’d head to one of the ends to avoid the noise. (Note: this is not a dog-friendly beach.)

Pack your bathing suit for swimming, or plan to rent a kayak, paddleboard, or paddleboat. Or make use of the land amenities, like the tennis court and picnic tables. 

The beach is open from 8am to 8pm, with lifeguards on duty during this time. To cover their costs, it’s $13 for a nonresident per day ($11 for a child or senior). Or you can buy a season beach pass.

If you have a bike, follow the trail from Donner Memorial State Park to get some lovely forest views on the route. 

6. Emerald Pools Swimming Hole

You’ll find the Emerald Pools of Nevada City just a 35-minute drive west of Truckee. It’s a half-mile hike along gravel to get to the rocky shores of this hidden gem.

The area gets its name from the green color of the glacial water. That means that while it’s beautiful, it’s also cold. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t hop in though! Just be prepared for a bit of a chill. It’s the perfect balance to a hot day in summer.

It can be a bit hard to find, so I recommend following this guide to get to the pools and the less popular gorge for a unique summer spot. 

7. Horseback Riding

I grew up horseback riding, so anytime I can get back in the saddle, I will! Unfortunately for me, the stables here close for winter, so I missed my chance. It’s just too cold and icy for the horses.

The Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center is open from June to October, however, offering pony rides, private lessons, and private trail rides. Or you can just walk past and check out the horses if you’re not prepared to actually ride them. 

The short pony rides are just for kids. I recommend the trail rides that last about two hours and take you through the forests to spot some wildlife. 

8. Lake Tahoe Day Trip

Drive 40 minutes southeast to Lake Tahoe and have an epic day trip . I took my dog to swim in Lake Tahoe , hunt down every gluten-free bakery, and go snowshoeing on the north end. We did all that and still made it home before dinner.

I recommend driving to Tahoe early in the day, so you can make the most of it. Head to Sugar Pine Cakery & Cafe after 7am to get fresh baked goods and a great latte.

Then head to Kings Beach to dip your toes in the water. It’s an unofficial dog beach in winter, but in summer, your pet can’t go with you (although my friend said most people bring their dogs anyway).

In the summer , Eagle Rock Trailhead is a great hike. But it gets too snowy in winter, though there’s still plenty to do in the cold ! I snowshoed Page Meadows and had the best time. There was no one else around for the entire hike, so I got to enjoy the tranquility of nature. 

9. Reno Day Trip

Most people arrive in Truckee from the Reno airport. If you didn’t, you might want to do a day trip to see the city .

Cross into Nevada to visit the Riverwalk District. Here you’ll find Idlewild Park, the Nevada Museum of Art, the Reno Arch, and Bicentennial Park. 

In all, it’s a short day trip that will show you a drastically different landscape than what you’ll find in Truckee.

10. Donner Pass

To get to Truckee from San Francisco, you drive through Donner Pass. It’s really scary when you’re not prepared for it — and when everyone tells you the snow-pocalypse is coming tomorrow. I did it without realizing how problematic it could be.

In winter, you have to have snow tires, and large trucks need chains. I saw three crashed trucks that either didn’t have them or didn’t obey the speed limits and skidded off the road even with them.

So drive carefully and watch for road closures, as it does close often in winter.

In summer, it’s a gorgeous route, with high elevations and really beautiful views. Break up the drive by stopping in Sacramento and to hike Donner Peak. 

11. Donner Lake

Donner Lake, formerly Truckee Lake, is a great place to spend a summer day. The water is cold, summer or winter, so don’t expect a warm dip. But on a hot day, that’s what you need!

Most people prefer Lake Tahoe, but I love this calm lake that’s dog friendly and has great picnic areas. On the east side, there are several docks along the lakefront that are open to the public and can be a great place to chill for the day. You’ll want to get there earlier or later in the day to score one, particularly on weekends. They’re also in the sun, so bring sunscreen!

Bring a book or a good podcast and relax beside the lake for a day. Pair it with a hike through Donner Memorial State Park to make the most of the $10 parking fee in summer. 

12. Donner Summit Bridge

When you drive through Donner Pass, you’ll go over the Donner Summit Bridge. Plan to stop here to admire the bridge and the lake below.

The bridge has a free pathway on both sides from which you can enjoy views of the lake. On July 4th, it’s one of the best spots in Truckee for fireworks.  

The bridge dates back to the 1950s so you’ll be walking on a piece of history!

13. Skiing or Snowboarding

People brave the intense winters of Truckee for the skiing and snowboarding. I didn’t get the memo, though, as I haven’t skied since my high school trips in Canada.

However, If you enjoy skiing, head to North Star Ski Resort, Tahoe Donner, or Boreal Ski Resort to enjoy the slopes.

North Star is known for its 100 unique trails and over 2,000-foot elevation. Most of the trails are intermediate, so they’re good for most everyone.

Tahoe Donner was the closest resort to me, so I got to see it in action regularly. It has 120 skiable acres, with a range of trail difficulties. About a third of the offerings are black diamonds, but there is a kids’ play area, so it’s still okay for families. 

Boreal Ski Resort, a short drive from Truckee, is a small resort that is more beginner friendly. It’s also got a great snow tubing area, which is where I spent my time. 

There are a ton of snowshoeing trails around Truckee, like the 5km (3.1-mile) China Cove Trail Loop or the Johnson Canyon Overlook that’s 6km (3.7 miles). I love snowshoeing, so I took advantage of my friend’s pair to explore the trails. Some days it’s so snowy that you’ll need them just to walk your dog!

14. Cross-Country Skiing

Prefer cross-country skiing to downhill? Truckee has that too!

The two best places are Donner Memorial State Park and Tahoe National Forest.

There are five trails at Donner Memorial State Park; I recommend the two-mile Coldstream Trail for its intermediate difficulty and the smaller crowds. Add on the 1.5-mile Upper Coldstream Trail for greater difficulty and to connect to the Pacific Crest Trail.

You can rent skis at any of the resorts in town, or bring your own. There is a $5 parking fee in winter to visit this park. 

15. Renting a Snowmobile

Tour Truckee by snowmobile with Coldstream Adventures. For $210 for a group tour, you’ll visit four vistas overlooking Coldstream Canyon and get to race around a meadow.

To drive the snowmobile, you must be at least 18 with a valid driver’s license. Otherwise you need to ride as a passenger.

16. Truckee Bike Park

Break out the BMX to ride the trails of the Truckee Bike Park . This track has jumps, slaloms, drop zones, and more for you to enjoy.

It’s open from sunrise to sunset seven days a week during summer. You can even take lessons to improve your tricks for just $35/hour. It’s free to visit, but they ask for donations if you’d like to support the maintenance of the area.

17. Truckee River Winery

Californian wine isn’t just in Napa. It’s also in Truckee!

This family-owned winery serves pinot grigio, pinot noir, chardonnay, and malbec. You can buy the wine directly, and take a tour to learn more about the winery.

It’s open tovisitors Wednesday through Saturday, from 11am to 5pm. It gets very busy in summer, so I recommend calling ahead to book a reservation. 

In winter, at the Ice Carving Competition at Snowfest in Tahoe City, you can try the winery’s products while you check out the ice carving, during what’s called “Wine ‘n’ Ice.” 

18. KidZone Museum

Looking for somewhere to take the kids? Head to KidZone. The museum focuses on child development, with disability-friendly days catering to children who need specialized environments. It’s for kids age 7 and under, and it boasts play structures, a movie theater, and a Sierra Settlers exhibit.

Visit Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30am to 5pm (except on Saturdays, when it closes at 3pm). 

19. Old Truckee Jail Museum

Check out an authentic 1800s jail! This one-story “strongbox” was crowdfunded by the townspeople to have somewhere to put the wrongdoers back in the day.

Now it’s one of the only 19th-century jailhouses in the Western world. On your visit, examine the original building and learn about some of the most notorious criminals in the region. You’ll even find historical artifacts from Truckee’s history, like early skis and ice-harvesting gear. 

20. Truckee Railroad Museum

The tiny Truckee Railroad Museum is perfect for an hour’s visit. It teaches you about the town’s railroad history back to the 1800s, including model trains and photos of the time. You’ll learn how a town most people don’t know about played an essential role in America’s transcontinental railroad.

The museum is open on weekends year-round from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free, but it crowdfunds donations.

21. Getting a Massage

A massage is a perfect thing to do in Truckee no matter what time of year you visit. Book a massage at Zenergy, Martis Valley Massage, or Balance Holistic Health Spa to relax and rejuvenate.

Since most of the activities on this list are high intensity, you should balance it out with this slower-paced self-care. Get a relaxing deep-tissue massage and spend a day pampering yourself.

22. Golfing

Truckee is a hot spot for golfing each summer. The season varies annually based on the weather, but typically runs from mid June to mid-October.

Tahoe Donner Golf Course is the most popular place to play 18 holes. You can also stop by Old Greenwood Golf Course or Ponderosa Golf Course to test your skills. They are both open 7am to about 7pm.

To play, you need to book a time at least a few days in advance (more in peak summer). Green fees to play 18 holes at prime time at Tahoe Donner cost $190 in peak summer (July 8 to Sept. 25), or $135 in the shoulder months.   

23. Whitewater Rafting at Truckee River

Truckee River is a mecca for whitewater rafting. Take a tour with highly trained staff and prepare for a thrilling ride through Clearwater Canyon. 

Rafting tours run May to September, with prices starting at $90. It takes about 4.5 hours, including the safety briefing and getting into the wetsuits. I recommend taking the afternoon tour, when it’s a bit warmer, since that water is freezing cold!

Don’t worry if you haven’t gone whitewater rafting before. They’ll teach you how to do it safely, and by the end you’ll be a pro! 

24. Skydiving

Skydiving is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had, and you can do it too! Check out Skydive Truckee Tahoe at the north end to make a once-in-a-lifetime jump that offers views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the beautiful glacial lake. 

There are tandem dives for newbies or, if you’re experienced, you can solo dive. 

Don’t forget to get a photo or video of your experience by buying a media package! 

25. Breweries

Truckee is home to a number of breweries that serve craft beer. It’s a great way to decompress after skiing or hiking.

I recommend Truckee Brewing Co. They pour epic IPAs 3pm-8pm Monday through Sunday. Also check out the restaurant for delicious food.

The Good Wolf Brewing Company is best known for its “hop-forward and forest beers.” Visit on Wednesday for trivia or on the last Thursday of every month for drag bingo. It’s open Tuesday to Sunday 3pm–8pm, with extended hours on the weekends.

26. Eating Your Way Through Town 

Truckee has a great food scene. Here are some of my favorite restaurants:

• Cloud Sushi Truckee
• Cornerstone Kitchen
• 1882 Bar and Grill
• Tacos Jalisco

I never thought I’d love Truckee after arriving to six feet of snow. But once I got plowed out, I got to adventuring and falling in love with this winter paradise! 

About the author: Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About . She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years and explored more than 30 in all, most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favorite things to do in the True North. She helps over 200,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

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10 Top-Rated Things to Do in Truckee, CA

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 24, 2023

Truckee, California, is a mountain town tucked into the Sierra Nevada Mountains northwest of Lake Tahoe. It's surrounded by the sprawling Tahoe National Forest , lending to year-round outdoor adventure. This outdoor appeal includes hiking, fishing, boating, skiing, and walking through history.

Donner Pass is immediately west of the city. This fateful mountain pass lured early California emigrants heading west looking to start new lives. Among the emigrants were the infamous Donner Party that spent the winter trapped here in 1846, and this wide valley, including the nearby natural Donner Lake , has a much longer history with the native Washone People of the region.

Donner Pass, including Donner Memorial State Park, is a must-see when visiting Truckee. And the same goes for the nearby Historic Downtown District . Here, the Old West feels more recent, with historic buildings lining the main drag. This downtown area is also the spot in Truckee to find several local eateries and boutiques.

Plan your next Sierra Nevada getaway with our list of the top things to do in Truckee, California.

1. Stroll through Historic Downtown Truckee

2. explore the outdoors at donner memorial state park, 3. ski and snowboard near truckee, 4. trek on the truckee river legacy trail, 5. dive deep into donner party history at donner memorial state park, 6. take a dip in donner lake, 7. drive old highway 40 over donner summit, 8. get outside in tahoe national forest, 9. day trip to lake tahoe, 10. day trip to reno, map of things to do in truckee, ca, truckee, ca - climate chart.

The Historic Downtown Truckee district parallels Interstate 80 east of Donner Pass and Donner Lake. Its roots date back to the 1860s, when Truckee became a railroad and lumber town connecting Reno and Sacramento. And while parts of the town burned down in the early years, much of Truckee's original charm remains.

Historic and Old West-inspired buildings line both sides of Donner Pass Road in downtown Truckee. These aesthetic buildings backdropped by mountains offer a scenic attraction and a fun place to stroll the day away.

Modern businesses inhibit these old storefronts, and the sidewalks bustle throughout the summer. Restaurants, clothing boutiques, and art galleries comprise much of the traffic in this part of town. Other specialty stores, like gear shops and espresso bars, are also prevalent.

Downtown is also the place to go for some of Truckee's biggest events. Truckee Thursdays are one gathering not to miss, occurring throughout the evening in the summer. This weekly festival closes the street down to vehicle traffic and features live music and outdoor vendors.

Donner Memorial State Park is the central outdoor tourist attraction in Truckee. It's on the east side of Donner Pass and Donner Lake , easily accessible from Interstate 80. The park sits at an elevation of 6,000 feet and offers a crisp breath of pine-scented air alongside gorgeous surroundings. It's also a site of significant historical and cultural value.

Emigrants in the 1840s frequented the area as they made their way to California in search of promised wealth and prosperity. The nearby Donner Pass was a significant checkpoint as a preferred route to cross the challenging Sierra Nevada Mountains. Perhaps the most famous account, the Donner Party, illustrates the challenges of crossing this high-alpine landscape.

The Washoe People resided in the region for thousands of years before covered wagons made their ruts through the countryside. Today, the state park details this long timeline at the Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center . On the grounds outside, an interpretive trail leads to a historic cabin site and the striking Pioneer Monument , dedicated to the hundreds of emigrants that passed through the area.

Recreation also runs rampant at the state park. Over eight miles of trails wind throughout the park's 16 acres, including a shoreline trail on Donner Lake. Several picnic tables are next to the lakeshore, offering an excellent spot for an outdoor lunch. The park also has over 150 campsites available between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Official site: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=503

Skiing and snowboarding significantly add to Truckee's year-round appeal. It's a proper basecamp for winter adventures, with several lodging options and restaurants for après-ski enjoyment, and more importantly, several ski hills and resorts surround the city.

Northstar California isn't the closest ski resort, but it's considered the best in the area. And visitors from Truckee can reach the chairlifts with a less than eight-mile drive. At the resort, downhill enthusiasts have over 3,000 acres to explore, accessible by 20 lifts.

West of Truckee, toward Donner Pass, Sugar Bowl Resort and Boreal Mountain offer even closer ski runs. These two ski spots are directly off Interstate 80. Sugar Bowl encompasses over 1,600 acres and is a popular place to visit for locals in the region.

And north of Truckee, within a five-mile drive, Tahoe Donner Ski Resort offers some of the best family skiing in the region. It's a smaller resort with minimal elevation grades, making it an excellent spot for beginners or young children. Tahoe Donner is also home to a popular Cross Country Ski Center with over 100 kilometers of groomed trails.

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Lake Tahoe

The Truckee River Legacy Trail is a popular pedestrian path next to the Truckee River. This paved route stretches approximately six miles from Truckee River Regional Park downriver to the Glendale neighborhood. And beautiful views of the Truckee River span the entire way.

Outside of significant winter storms, the Legacy Trail generally stays plowed throughout the winter. This snow-free status makes it one of the most popular paths to wander in colder weather. And throughout the year, expect to encounter runners, walkers, bicyclists, and stroller pushers.

Truckee River Regional Park, where the trail originates, is also worth exploring. It's home to an abundance of playground equipment and several sports facilities like tennis courts and ballfields. The park is also home to an amphitheater that hosts the annual Wednesday Summer Music Series .

For a detailed look into the events that led to the Donner Party's fateful winter of 1846, head to the Donner Memorial State Park Visitor Center . This facility, also known as the Emigrant Trail Museum , has several large and fascinating displays that span the Donner Party timeline. These exhibits include historical photos and large illustrated cutouts.

The museum also highlights other significant cultural events in the region. Another notable topic is the native Washoe People that inhabited the lands for thousands of years. Other histories on display include early railroad construction and the advent of automobile travel on Donner Pass.

The visitor center is open every day of the year, excluding major holidays, and offers free admission. There is a small fee for parking within the park.

Donner Memorial State Park and the Emigrant Museum aren't the only spots to experience the region's history. Historic Downtown Truckee is just a few miles east, with old storefronts lining the street. In downtown, the Old Jail Museum and the Truckee Railroad Museum offer other exhibits to walk through.

Donner Lake is the nearly three-mile-long natural lake between Donner Pass and downtown Truckee. It's a central point of activity, especially during the summer, when boating and fishing overtake the waters. The lake is also a popular spot for swimming during the midday heat.

The lake is accessible from both the east and west shores. On the eastern shores, Donner Memorial State Park offers camping and picnic areas close to the shore. And West End Beach Park is on the opposite bank, with lifeguards, boat rentals, and playground equipment. A scenic drive on the shoreline Donner Pass Road connects these two popular parks.

Donner Lake Watersports & Marina , on Donner Pass Road, is the first stop for those looking to rent ski boats and pontoon boats. The marina also has a fleet of non-motorized vessels, including hydro bikes and stand up paddleboards, and nearby, Donner Lake Village is a longstanding place to stay lakeside.

Highway 40, also known as Donner Pass Road , was one of the first paved automobile routes to cross the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It follows a route first trodden by travelers on the Emigrant Trail, who were following the worn footpaths of native cultures before them. Until Interstate 80 replaced this portion of the original Lincoln Highway in 1964, it was the main route over the pass.

Today, drivers can still divert off the interstate near Cisco and travel this scenic route that ends at Donner Lake. Several recreational and historic landmarks line this route, particularly towards its eastern terminus near the Donner Summit. Here, the landmark Donner Summit Bridge , also known as the Rainbow Bridge , dates back to the 1920s and offers an excellent vista point.

This area near the Donner Summit Bridge is also a hot spot for hiking. Several trails extend north and south from this historic highway, including the country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail . Two of the most popular hikes in the area include the trek to Castle Crag and the uphill route to Donner Peak , and for a unique walk through history, head for the Donner Pass Summit Tunnels .

The expansive Tahoe National Forest surrounds all sides of Truckee. It encompasses more than 800,000 acres, offering unlimited opportunities to explore outside. Popular activities include camping, swimming, rock climbing, and skiing throughout the winter.

Hiking is perhaps the most prevalent activity in Tahoe National Forest. Hundreds of miles of trails cross throughout, offering easy day hikes and overnight endeavors. The country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail passes right by Truckee, crossing Interstate 80 at Donner Pass. A few other favorite trails to explore include the Paradise Lake Trail and the China Grove Trail .

Camping is also popular in Tahoe National Forest. Several designated campgrounds, like Granite Flat and Goose Meadow Campgrounds , offer picnic tables and fire pits. Primitive camping is also prevalent on the side of forest service roads.

Official site: https://www.fs.usda.gov/tahoe

Truckee visitors can reach the north shore of Lake Tahoe with less than a 30-minute drive. Several beach areas and communities line this shore closest to Truckee, making for easy day trips, and while these northwest parks see crowds in the summer, they tend to be the quieter places to visit.

North Tahoe Regional Park and North Tahoe Beach are two of Truckee's closest public access points, accessible with a 12-mile drive. The regional park encompasses over 120 acres with several facilities, including playgrounds, hiking trails, and a seasonal off-leash dog park. The adjacent North Tahoe Beach has 39 parking spots and three popular high-quality volleyball nets.

Farther south on the northwest shore, Commons Beach is also a popular spot. Thanks to its sprawling shoreline and several picnic spots, it's one of Lake Tahoe's best beaches . Commons Beach is also home to several community events during the summer, including live music and movie screenings.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do at Lake Tahoe

Nevada's "Biggest City in the World" is a quick 30-mile drive down the mountains from Truckee. The city boasts many things to do, often with fewer crowds than its glitzier cousin to the south, Las Vegas. But don't think Reno isn't a bustling spot, the city has increasingly become more popular for family-friendly vacations.

From automobile museums to wildlife sanctuaries, Reno offers several reasons for a day's visit . Other notable attractions include the Nevada Museum of Art and the National Bowling Stadium , and everyone enjoys taking a picture with the iconic Reno Arch on Virginia Street.

With a surplus of hotel rooms, Reno is also a viable base camp for the region. It's a quick drive into the mountains to reach Truckee and Tahoe National Forest. To the south, the state capital of Carson City is also a short drive away, and with entertainment options every night of the week, Reno offers plenty of places for dinner and a show after an adventurous day.

More on California

• Meeting Planners
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If you’re heading to Truckee for a day trip or simply stopping on your way to Reno, Truckee has something fun for everyone. Just north of Lake Tahoe in the High Sierras, Truckee, CA is a small mountain town with big energy that is loaded with plenty of things to do, including hidden gems and outdoor activities.

The Truckee area was originally inhabited by the Washoe, Maidu and Paiute tribes, and then later by miners and settlers in the later 1860s. Truckee grew into a bustling mining town with plenty of wealth, excitement and debauchery to go around during the gold and silver rushes.

Today, Truckee is full of great outdoor activities, food, shopping, art and numerous other things to do.

Things To Do in Truckee, CA in Winter

A snow-capped wonderland, the possibilities of things to do in Truckee CA in winter are almost endless. With so many winter activities, your biggest problem will be figuring out how to fit them all into your stay.

Skiing and Snowboarding

There are several world-class ski resorts just a short drive from Truckee, including Northstar California Resort, Sugar Bowl Resort, Soda Springs Mountain Resort, Donner Ski Ranch and Boreal that will have skiers and snowboarders alike wishing they could buy season passes to all of them.

For beginners, check out Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort, which offers beginner-friendly runs and skiing lessons.

Cross country skiing enthusiasts will love Tahoe Donner, Royal Gorge and Boreal ski areas.

More Winter Activities in Truckee

Skiing and snowboarding aren’t the only winter sports in Truckee worth trying. Northstar California Resort offers snowshoeing and fat-tire snow biking, along with shopping and food. Tubing lovers will love Donner Ski Ranch and Tahoe Donner Snowplay, which offer tubes and other snow toys for their snow tubing hills.

Ice skating enthusiasts will love the Northstar Village Ice Skating Rink and Truckee Ice Rink.

Things To Do in Truckee in the Summer

The sight of towering pine trees and the majestic peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains surrounding Truckee, along with the tranquil waters of nearby Donner Lake, can make an outdoor enthusiast out of anyone.

With many outdoor activities, from hiking to kayaking to sightseeing and more, there seems to be an endless array of things to do in Truckee in the summer. After your outdoor adventure, be sure to grab a beer or a bite at Truckee’s best restaurants and breweries.

Donner Memorial State Park

Learn more about the history of the area at Donner Memorial State Park . This area used to be covered in glaciers which have left behind impressive valleys and huge boulder deposits. The area is perfect for hiking or simply stretching your legs on the drive to Reno.

While you’re there, stop into the Visitor Center, home to exhibits detailing the area’s history, including the Donner Party, railroad construction and the Emigrant Gap.

Sawmill Lake Fly Fishing

Sawmill Lake is located about 30 minutes south of Truckee and about eight miles from Northstar California Ski Resort .

Less crowded than Lake Tahoe, Sawmill Lake is a great spot to cast a line and try your luck catching rainbow trout or brown trout. Fishing is limited at the lake so reservations for catch and release fishing should be made in advance.

Donner Summit Bridge

Donner Summit Bridge, also called Rainbow Bridge, is located about 15 minutes west of Historic Downtown Truckee on Donner Summit and offers sweeping mountain views. Explore the area and you might just find the petroglyphs located between the bridge and the China Wall. This petroglyph site is home to more than 200 carvings.

Truckee River Kayaking and Rafting

Craving an adrenaline rush? Embark on a whitewater rafting or kayaking adventure down the Truckee River with one of the several tour companies in the area. Tahoe Whitewater Tours and Sierra Adventures offer rafting and kayaking tours along several stretches of the river so you can choose your level of adventure based on comfort and experience.

Some favorite sections include Boca Run, popular with rafters, or Truckee River Granite Chief Run, a section perfect for inflatable river kayaks.

Truckee Dining

Fuel up and quench your thirst after a day in the outdoors at one of Truckee’s many delicious restaurants.

From breweries to trendy eats, Truckee restaurants and breweries have what it takes to satisfy your adventurous appetite.

Truckee Tavern and Grill

Truckee Tavern and Grill serves up American eats and craft cocktails in a rustic but trendy setting. Reservations are strongly encouraged.

FiftyFifty Brewing Co.

FiftyFifty Brewing Co. is a microbrewery offering a large selection of beers from pilsners to stouts, so everyone is sure to find something they love here. Enjoy fresh local beer, pub eats and craft cocktails all in one place.

Truckee Brewing Company

Located in Historic Downtown Truckee, Truckee Brewing Company brews craft beer that is sure to quench your thirst after a long day of outdoor fun. From ales to IPAs and more, Truckee Brewing Company can satisfy the tastes of any beer enthusiast.

Truckee Shopping

Truckee offers great shopping for clothing, gifts, locally-made art and more. With so much shopping, you’re sure to find something for yourself and for those back home.

California 89

Looking for your next favorite hoodie or beanie? Find great clothing with nods to Truckee and Tahoe at California 89 , located on Donner Pass Road.

Tahoe Oil and Spice

Take your recipes to the next level with goods from Tahoe Oil and Spice . Offering specialty olive oils, balsamic vinegars, spice blends and more, Tahoe Oil and Spice is a great place to find gifts or a treat for yourself.

Whatever you’re into, Truckee has what you’re looking for. We hope you try out some of our favorite things to do in Truckee CA.

Can’t get enough of Reno Tahoe? Luckily Reno, Truckee and Lake Tahoe are all within a short drive of each other, so you can plan a stellar day trip to all of them to maximize your adventure. Don’t forget to post it and tag #RenoTahoe so we can see it!

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How To Spend A Weekend In Historic Truckee, California

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• Destinations
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• Weekend Getaway

Venture just north of Lake Tahoe in California, and you will discover the mountain town of Truckee. You can drive there in a few hours from San Francisco or Sacramento and leave city life far behind. Strolling through Truckee’s old downtown, you’ll trace the steps of gunslingers and lumberjacks. The raucous Old West occupied these streets long ago.

Truckee grew up along the river when the First Transcontinental Railroad added a stop in the town in the 1860s. For years, the main industry was logging. Today, Truckee offers quaint shops, historic sites, and lots of outdoor adventures.

Here are some great things to do on your weekend getaway.

Sharon Odegaard

Browse The Shops Of Historic Downtown Truckee

To get a feel for the old town, head straight to the stores and galleries on the main street, Donner Pass Road. A variety of boutique shops operate in buildings that were constructed in the 1800s.

My favorite shop is Word After Word , a bookstore that beckons visitors to come in and enjoy the written word. You’ll find it nestled between Sweets Handmade Candies and Uncorked Wine Bar , both of which are also worth a visit. Word After Word is just a few years old and came to Truckee with a mission to create a space for visitors to connect and enjoy community. Titles by local authors sit alongside the latest bestsellers. You can relax in a beanbag chair and peruse the book of your choice.

For decor items with a mountain theme, the gift store Bespoke is the place to go. The owners also run a store and art classroom called Atelier a few doors away. Pick up art supplies and, if the timing is right, sign up for a class on something that interests you, from screen printing to arranging flowers.

Visit The Train Depot

The train still chugs through Truckee as it did in the 1800s, and the station built there in 1891 still sells tickets and greets arriving passengers. Stop into the station to see the displays of early train memorabilia, such as a large scale. Now only two passenger trains pass through each day — one from Chicago in the morning and one going back east in the afternoon.

The station provides the most convenient public restrooms, and if you need local maps and brochures, you’ll find them there. The friendly folks at the counter can answer any questions you have about Truckee, too.

Learn About Truckee’s Past At The Old Jail Museum

Truckee’s Old Jail occupies the ground floor of a two-story building just off the main street. After peeking in at the rusty, empty cells, climb the old wooden stairs to the second level, where you’ll find a museum run by the Truckee-Donner Historical Society. The building dates to 1875 and holds a variety of items from Truckee’s history. An enthusiastic docent chatted with me about all things Truckee.

Want to know more about Truckee’s colorful past? Head to the Truckee-Donner Historical Society’s website .

If you’re ready to sit and relax after walking around town, go behind the Old Jail Museum and take a seat on the bench in the small Community Memorial Garden.

Cruise The Rail Trail Along The Truckee River

The mountain country surrounding Truckee offers endless ways to get outside and enjoy the pine-scented air. A popular choice is to bicycle or walk along the Rail Trail. This paved path follows what used to be the railroad tracks along the Truckee River.

Open during the late spring and summer, this trail is fairly flat, offering views of the river the entire 7 miles. From Truckee, drive to Sunnyside or to Tahoe City to catch either end of the trail. Park at the Sunnyside Restaurant & Lodge lot or at the public parking lot in Tahoe City. The trail lies below a highway, so it’s not possible to safely park along the way.

When the winter provides abundant snowfall, the Truckee River roars to life when all that snow melts. It’s a pleasure to walk or cycle along the riverbank under a canopy of pines. You can go the entire 7 miles or start at one end and head back whenever you want.

Bounce Along The River In A Whitewater Raft

The Truckee River is the only outlet for Lake Tahoe, a lake 70 miles around and 1,000 feet deep in places. So, in the spring and summer, the river can tumble with plenty of whitewater rapids. In years of less snow, the river meanders peacefully.

You can rent a raft in Tahoe City and take off toward Truckee. Along the way, you can dock on a spit of land or just keep going. Spin and swirl all you wish, and then glide into the harbor at Sunnyside. The rental company will drive you back to Tahoe City.

David A Litman / Shutterstock

Revel In A Winter Wonderland

If you visit Truckee in the winter, you will find plenty to do outside. The Tahoe area usually gets about 40 feet of snow, so you can ski, snowshoe, or just revel in the beauty of the white-covered mountain scene.

If you want to ski, Truckee is a wonderful home base for your trip. It’s about a 15-minute drive from several ski resorts. Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows hosted the 1960 Winter Olympics; you can choose from 43 lifts at this world-class resort. Also near Truckee are Northstar California Resort , Boreal Mountain Resort , Sugar Bowl Resort , and Homewood Mountain Resort . A little farther away are Diamond Peak Ski Resort and Mount Rose Ski Tahoe .

Also check out snowmobile rentals and sledding for more outdoor activities.

With the snowfall so deep, skiing and other activities such as tubing are sometimes available into early summer.

Where To Eat In Truckee

Truckee’s Old West atmosphere might lead you to think the food is basic, but Truckee has developed into a haven for foodies. Whether you’re looking for sushi or a wine tasting bar, you’ll find it. Here are a few places in the center of town to whet your appetite.

Located in the historic downtown area, Trokay offers prix-fixe menus that will delight you. The chef-owners also serve up favorites like fried chicken and barbecue ribs.

What makes this restaurant even more fun is that you can take classes there. Why not learn about cheese pairings or making your own pasta while in Truckee?

Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats

Imagine dining on roadhouse-style food while listening to live jazz inside a 1873 Truckee hotel. Good food, music, and history blend together to make your meal at Moody’s Bistro Bar & Beats an unforgettable experience.

The Pour House

Do you appreciate an exquisite glass of wine? The Pour House offers more than 350 wines from vineyards around the world. Enjoy fine cheeses, chocolates, and other snacks with your drink. You’ll find The Pour House on Jibboom Street, just a block off the main street.

Bar Of America

For a casual, lively lunch or dinner, the Bar of America is perfect. Housed in what was once the Bank of America, the restaurant is a place to relax. You can even enjoy live music in the evenings.

Where To Stay In Truckee

Modern hotels like Hampton Inn & Suites and Best Western are available outside of the historic part of Truckee. But for the most atmosphere and an authentic Truckee experience, why not stay in the heart of the historic downtown?

The Truckee Hotel, located at one end of the downtown main street, allows you to stay where stagecoach passengers once checked in for a rest. Opened in 1873, the hotel changed over the years, but the exterior was restored in 1992 to its original style. With updated rooms and warm decor, the hotel is ideal as a base for exploring Truckee.

What To Know Before You Go

Truckee has grown through the decades, and new housing developments and businesses fan out from the quaint downtown. If you visit, though, you will want to spend most of your time in historic Truckee. Grab lunch in an old cafe or relax on a bench and sip your coffee. Let your imagination run wild, back to the early days of the town. You will surely hear echoes of the days of mountain men, muddy streets, horses and buggies — all the grit and romance of the Old West.

Hike up the steep hills a couple of short blocks above the downtown on any of the side streets. Then turn around for a view across the downtown and the railroad to the pine-covered hills. Look for the wooden houses built in the town’s infancy, and enjoy the majesty of the surrounding hills.

For more to see and do in the Lake Tahoe area, see this page.

As the owner of the travel blog, Exploring Our World , Sharon enjoys taking her readers on a journey with her. Articles often delve into the history of a place, and by adding in a generous number of photos, she inspires others to explore for themselves. In her early travels, she was most frustrated by coming back home and learning that she had missed a fascinating sight or a hidden gem. Now she helps travelers prepare for a trip by passing along travel tips, pointing out lesser known things to see, and alerting them to enjoyable day trips from major cities.

Her travel articles have been published by Stripes Europe Newsletter and the World War 2 Writing and Research Center. Whether she's discovering more about her hometown of San Diego, California or flying to faraway places, she enjoys sharing with travel lovers around the world.

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US I-80 and I-580, CA SR89 and SR267, NV SR431 and SR28. All-weather highways make directions to Tahoe’s North Shore easy to follow. But changes in mountain weather (four seasons here) also mean, for safe driving, it’s a must to check road conditions by phone, online or on live traffic cams like those for I-80 below.

California | 1-800.427.7623 | www.dot.ca.gov

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If your point of departure is farther away than Reno, Carson City, Sacramento or the San Francisco Bay Area, you can fly into one of seven international airports and drive into the mountains. Check the chart for distances and travel times.

The Truckee Travel Guide will give you insider tips to all things Truckee!

The Truckee Travel Guide will prove that boredom is NOT an option in Truckee, California!

Welcome to Spring!

The seasons have changed, and we are now in Spring ! Often you can still participate in some of the Truckee Winter Activities , while getting started with some of the Truckee Summer Activities !

Whatever the  Truckee Season  of the year, there is plenty to see and do in Truckee. From the unbelievable beauty of the Mountains surrounding  Donner Lake  and the area, to the charming Downtown Truckee Commercial Row full of quaint  shops  and  restaurants  to explore.

With two  Ski Resorts  in town (Northstar California and Tahoe Donner), and the  Truckee River  which provides opportunities for river rafting,  fly fishing , and kayaking, countless  lakes  and  beaches , including nearby  Lake Tahoe ,  golf courses  and  hiking  &  biking trails  in abundance, you will never run out of things to do! Truckee is the perfect place to take YOUR California Vacation!  Truckee is located close to  Reno, Nevada , and the North Lake Tahoe cities of  Tahoe City ,  Kings Beach ,  Incline Village  as well as  Olympic Valley  where Squaw Valley, USA is located. (Now called Palisades Tahoe) These  nearby Cities  offer additional shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities!

My family lived in Truckee for four years. We loved it! It is my favorite place to live, and I'm glad that my best friend has a cabin on  Donner Lake  that we visit as often as possible. We still travel back to Truckee to visit every chance we can get. I would have loved to move back to Truckee or Tahoe City, but unfortunately I'm priced out of the real estate market.

Below, I'm featuring a Truckee Non-Profit Organization or Lake Tahoe Non Profit Organization here, along with their Mission Statement!

Featured Non-Profit Organization Lake Tahoe Wildlife Care, Inc.

Please check out my  Truckee Non Profit Organizations  and  Lake Tahoe Non Profit Organizations  pages. Find an organization that touches your heart and get involved - donations, volunteering your time to help, or just helping them spread the word are all appreciated! Everyone can do something to fit their time and budget!

There is always something to see or do, or some fun event taking place in Truckee. (see Event Calendar ) There is a great mix of restaurants in town, and lots of options for hotels to stay at depending on your budget. The Truckee Travel Guide will give you all the details you need to make your visit, or vacation a memorable one.

The summer weather in Truckee is perfect, and the fresh air and the smell of pine trees in the air is heavenly! The snow on the pine trees after it stops snowing in winter , and the sun comes out, is just breathtaking! And the leaves changing colors in Fall are gorgeous!

The people in Truckee are so friendly, and the town has a laid back comfortable, and casual atmosphere that makes Truckee the perfect place to vacation and travel to. The stress of day to day living disappears when surrounded by the beautiful scenery in and around the Truckee area.

Whether you travel to Truckee for a day trip or an extended vacation, or are a lucky part-time, or full-time resident of Truckee, some of the activities outlined in the Truckee Travel Guide not to be missed are:

Favorite Truckee Summer Activities include:

• Camping in one of of the many Truckee Campgrounds
• Biking and Mountain Biking at Northstar-At-Tahoe and other bike paths and trails.
• Enjoying the water activities and beaches at Truckee's many lakes
• Fishing or Fly Fishing in the Truckee River
• Golfing on one of the Town's many excellent golf courses
• Hiking and Backpacking the many trails in the area
• River Rafting or Kayaking down the Truckee River
• Taking a Cable Car ride up to High Camp at Squaw Valley and eating a fantastic meal, while enjoying the majestic sunset views of Lake Tahoe
• Taking a leisurely drive around nearby Lake Tahoe
• Horseback riding

Favorite Truckee Winter Activities include:

• Skiing , Snowboarding , or Cross-Country Skiing in Truckee's two ski resorts, Tahoe Donner Ski Resort or Northstar Ski Resort, or one of the many nearby ski resorts , many with challenging Terrain Parks .
• Snowshoeing
• Snowmobiling with a Tour group
• Tubing or Sledding anywhere there is a hill
• Taking a Dog Sled Tour
• Ice Skating at several different places

The Truckee Travel Guide website was started on Jan. 9, 2011. Approximately 500+ pages are planned for the site. You can check out the TTG Site Map for a quick way of seeing which page have been completed, and which pages are still to be done. Here are some highlights of what is planned:

• I plan to start out with an overall outline, and then fill in the specifics. This will be a Content Intensive Comprehensive Site about ALL things Truckee!
• Lots of Truckee Pictures and Truckee Videos are planned to capture the beauty of the Truckee area. Unless noted otherwise, all photographs were taken by Leigh Storz, Owner of this website. Photo credit will be given on all pictures not taken by myself.
• Opportunities to share YOUR Favorite Truckee Travel and Vacation Stories are available from the Your Truckee Story tab. Specific Forms are being placed on individual pages shortly, and linked to this page.

Please bookmark this site, and check back often!

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California , North America , Western US & Canada · October 1, 2020

Take a Day Trip to Historic Truckee from Lake Tahoe

Truckee California is only a short 20-minute drive from North Lake Tahoe and makes for the perfect day trip! Keep reading to discover the best things to do in Truckee! And don’t miss our guide for 5 Things Not to Miss on Your First Trip to Lake Tahoe .

Best things to do in Truckee California

1. Stroll through historic downtown Truckee

Truckee is a small mountain town that has fondly been referred to as, “the most historical square mile in California”.

The historic roots of Truckee date back to 1844 when a Paiute Indian chief helped guide thousands of emigrants west through this region.

Truckee played an important role along the emigrant trail and later became the site of a lumber mill, stage coach stop, and railroad station.

In its hey day the streets were filled with saloons, bar fights, and brothels like most of the towns in the Wild West.

However, over the years it gained a reputation for being a great tourist destination.

By 1875 it became a hotspot for winter sports and summer tourism with stagecoaches and excursion trains regularly dropping off passengers. The winter Olympics were even held in Squaw Valley in 1960.

Truckee also attracted Hollywood A-list stars and producers, resulting in 82 movies filmed here during the early to mid-1900s.

Today, the historic district of downtown Truckee is lined with shops and restaurants housed in 19th-century buildings. Take a historic walking tour and enjoy the live music that often fills the streets.

Stop at the Old Jailhouse Museum and Railroad Museum, admission is free for both museums.

Pick up some souvenirs or handcrafted goods from one of the many boutique shops.

Grab a bite to eat at Jax at the Tracks, featured on Food Network’s Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives.

Then head to Bud’s Ice Cream for a scoop of homemade salted caramel ice cream. The scoops are huge, so you’ll only need a single!

2. Rent paddleboards at Donner Lake

Donner Lake is the quintessential summer setting. The picturesque lake is lined with thick earthy pines and the most charming lake houses.

All along the shoreline, you’ll find small docks jutting out onto the water.

On the weekends you’ll find families gathered with picnics spread on the docks, kids swimming nearby, and dogs lazily lounging in the sun.

A beach can be found on either end of the lake. The West End Beach Park offers picnic tables, barbecue grills, sports courts, and a playground.

A shaded sandy beach with ample picnic areas can also be found at the east end of the lake within the Donner Memorial State Park.

Watersport rentals are available at both beaches through Donner Lake Watersports .

3. Visit Donner Memorial State Park

The Donner Memorial State Park was founded in remembrance of the somber and unfortunate events that befell the Donner-Reed Party.

This wagon train of pioneers migrating to California found themselves trapped here in the snowy Sierra Nevada Mountains.

This led to one of the darkest moments in American Pioneering history. Only half of the 90 emigrants survived after many resorted to cannibalism.

You can learn more about the tragic events at the Visitor Center and Emigrant Trail Museum.

You’ll also find exhibits chronicling the history of the Sierra Nevada Railroad. Admission to the museum is free, but there is a fee to park ($5 October-April and $10 May-September).

Eight miles of walking trails weave throughout the park. Camping, fishing, swimming, boating, and picnic facilities are also available within the Park at Donner Lake and Donner Creek.

4. Take a photo of Rainbow Bridge

As you head up Donner Pass, you’ll cross the photogenic and historic Rainbow Bridge, or Donner Memorial Bridge.

Rainbow Bridge spans across the rugged mountainsides and is similar in design to the famed Bixby Creek Bridge at Big Sur.

The historic US Route 40 served as the primary route to connect motorists from the east to west coast until I-80 was constructed in 1964.

The bridge was constructed in the 1920s to bypass the steep mountain grade and allow for easier and safe passage along US Route 40. The original bridge began deteriorating and was restored in 1993.

After you cross the bridge on your way up to Donner Pass, you’ll find several lookout points where you can pull over to snap a photo.

This vantage point offers unrivaled views of the concrete arch bridge with the placid lake Donner Lake and the surrounding forest and mountain peaks as a backdrop.

This view is so scenic, in fact, that it has been featured in several commercials and even has a cameo appearance in several Hollywood movies, such as True Lies.

5. Hike through the Donner Summit Train Tunnels

Donner Summit holds historic significance. Not only as the pass where the first wagon trains crossed into California, but also as the site for the first transcontinental railroad and the first transcontinental highway to traverse through the Sierras.

Engineer Theodore Judah had what seemed to be an impossible vision to create the country’s first transcontinental railroad through the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

He hired approximately 12,000 Chinese laborers to hand-drill, sledgehammer, and blast miles of tunnels through the granite mountain.

They moved millions of tons of rock by carrying wooden yokes with baskets on their shoulders. It was hard and often life-threatening work.

The laborers were essentially indentured servants. They made a meager salary that they would send home to their suffering families during China’s severe economic depression.

They worked around the clock for 15 months to complete the tunnels. It took two years to complete the entire railroad with the first train passing through this stretch of track in 1868.

The last train passed through in 1993 when the rail line was decommissioned and rerouted to a different line about 1 mile south of Donner Summit.

At this point, the Southern Pacific Railroad removed the tracks and reusable parts. This left nearly 5 miles of abandoned rail line, tunnels, and snowsheds (the concrete tunnels constructed to protect the railroad from avalanches and heavy snowfall) just beckoning to be explored.

The best way to access the tunnels is by parking at the China Wall historic marker.

It is located on the left just before you reach Rainbow Bridge as you are making your way up to Donner Summit.

Here you’ll find a small parking area. From the parking lot, walk a few hundred yards west (to the right of the lot) until you see a trail leading up across the rock to the tunnels and the China Wall.

Keep an eye out for the Indian petroglyphs on your right near the beginning of the trail. They can be easy to miss, so just look for the marker.

Once you reach the tunnels you are free to explore in either direction. Some portions of the tunnels are pitch black, while other sections have openings that allow light in.

You’ll also see plenty of graffiti plastered all over the snowsheds. We didn’t walk the entire length of the tunnels, but the ones that we did walk through were each unique in their own way.

Definitely a fun little adventure and one of the best things to do in Truckee!

Other fun things to do in Truckee:

• River rafting: Take a relaxing and leisurely river rafting trip down the Truckee River. The trip is 5 miles and lasts about 2-3 hours. The cost is only $50/adults and $35/kids. If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, try white water rafting !
• Biking: Rent a bike and ride along the 6 mile Truckee River Legacy Trail, or check out one of the awesome mountain bike trails.
• Northstar Resort: Take a scenic summer lift ride to enjoy hiking, or grab a bite to eat at Northstar Village.
• Horse riding: Take a guided trail ride through the wooded and mountain terrain with the Tahoe Donner Equestrian Center.
• Hiking: Hike the 4.6-mile roundtrip Mt Judah Trail. The trail begins near Donner Summit and offers spectacular mountain vistas and views of Donner Lake. In the spring the trail is lined with wildflower blooms.
• Foothill Farmers Market: Pick up local produce and handcrafted goods at the Foothills Farmers Market. Located at the Truckee River Regional Park every Tuesday from 8 am-1 pm, mid-June to late September.
• For kids: Check out the Kidzone Children’s Museum or Truckee Bike Park with different tracks for all skill levels.

I hope you enjoy exploring this beautiful historic area and that this guide helps you discover the best things to do in Truckee!

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Is I 80 open? Is I 80 closed? Highway web cams links provide you with current conditions and any chain-controls or restrictions, and live stream views of all roads leading into North Tahoe. And if the weather is bad, checking real time is the safest way to decide whether to stay or to go.

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Reno-Sparks water supply much improved after 3 months of rain, snow

After a few rainy, snowy months, the region's water outlook is solidly above target.

The Truckee and Tahoe basins are at 115% of normal, according to the Truckee Meadows Water Authority, and the Sierra snowpack is at 105% of average across all stations, according to California Water Watch .

But it took a furious three-month rally to get back to normal levels. On Dec. 31, the snow-water equivalent at Big Meadows — the station closest to Reno-Sparks — stood at just 54% of average to date. Sunday's reading at the station was 98% of average to date. The snow-water equivalent at other nearby stations also reported much-improved levels through the first quarter of 2024:

• Tahoe City: 142% of average on March 31, up from 11% on Dec. 31
• Mount Rose Ski Area: 88% of average, up from 37%
• Heavenly Valley: 92% of average, up from 37%
• Marlette Lake: 92% of average, up from 41%

"Last year was a monstrous water year where we had about 250% in normal snowpack on April 1," said Bill Hauck, water supply administrator for TMWA. "It's our second above-average year in a row, and because of that, we're projecting above-average runoff conditions."

Reno-Sparks water supply looking solid for 2024

Lake Tahoe is the source for nearly all of Reno-Sparks' water supply. The century-old Lake Tahoe Dam at Tahoe City, California, holds back Tahoe's waters 6.1 feet over its natural rim. That 6.1-foot boost, spread out over Tahoe's 191 square miles, provides 242.2 billion gallons of water for taps in the Truckee Meadows.

As of March 31, Lake Tahoe was at 5.15 feet over its natural rim , up about 6 inches from Feb. 29. That's about 86% of total capacity as a reservoir (that is, 86% of the lake's capacity above its natural rim) and 209% of its historical average for March 31.

Hauck told the RGJ that Tahoe should be completely filled for the first time since 2019.

"It did not fill last year, despite having the big year, because we had such a deficit to overcome," he said.

Here's where Reno-Sparks' other reservoirs stood as of the last day of March:

• Stampede Reservoir: The Truckee Meadows Water Authority can store up to 4.6 billion gallons of water at this reservoir. It's currently at 89% of capacity and 135% of the historical average for this date.
• Independence Lake: It's rare that Reno-Sparks taps Independence (capacity: 4.8 billion gallons) for its water needs, but it's happened as recently as 2015. Right now, it's at 86% of capacity, and 103% of the historical average.
• Prosser Creek Reservoir: Lake Tahoe is legally required to release water when it reaches 6.1 feet above its natural rim, and frequently that water will go to Prosser. It can hold up to 2.5 billion gallons at its peak, but it's at 26% of capacity and 82% of the historical average for the date.
• Boca Reservoir: Connected to the larger-capacity Stampede Reservoir, Boca (capacity: 2.7 billion gallons) was last tapped in 2015. Right now, it's at 20% of capacity and at just 40% of the historical average for March 31.
• Donner Lake: It's rare that Reno-Sparks needs to tap these reserves, but Donner can store about 3.1 billion gallons of water — about half of which is available for use by TMWA. It's currently at 41% of capacity, and 87% of its historical average.

The available capacity in those last three is by design, Hauck said.

"They're as high as they can be this time of year," he said. "They have to be brought down because of the potential for winter time flooding on the Truckee River system; we have to leave space in the reservoirs to account for that to to for safety reasons. Stampede and Prosser and Donner and independence, they're all going to be completely filled by early summer."

If there's one thing the region will be short on this summer, it will be space for beach blankets.

"There's going to be a lot of disappointed people because you're gonna get the same amount of people and and 50% less beach, so that ought to be interesting," Hauck said.

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