Donner Lake Tours and Activities

Sunset glow along the mountains next to Donner Lake.

#BvSWater
Sunset glow along the mountains next to Donner Lake.

#BvSWater
Donner Lake on the way from Granite Bay, Ca. to Las Vegas.
Donner Lake is a freshwater lake in Northeast California on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada and about 11 miles northwest of the much larger Lake Tahoe.
Love the ominous clouds.


Popular places to visit


Top Donner Lake Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Lakefront Cabin with private pier on Donner Lake

Lakefront Cabin with private pier on Donner Lake

Truckee CA
Lakefront Cabin with private pier on Donner Lake
Donner Lakefront Remodeled Log Cabin, 180º Views, Dog Friendly, 2 Decks, Minutes from Sugar Bowl!

Donner Lakefront Remodeled Log Cabin, 180º Views, Dog Friendly, 2 Decks, Minutes from Sugar Bowl!

Truckee CA
Donner Lakefront Remodeled Log Cabin, 180º Views, Dog Friendly, 2 Decks, Minutes from Sugar Bowl!
Superb lakefront home with mountain/lake views, fireplace, tennis & washer/dryer

Superb lakefront home with mountain/lake views, fireplace, tennis & washer/dryer

Truckee CA
Superb lakefront home with mountain/lake views, fireplace, tennis & washer/dryer
Truckee Donner Lodge

Truckee Donner Lodge

2.5 out of 5
10527 Cold Stream Rd Truckee CA
Truckee Donner Lodge
Lakefront Donner Lake Home, Private Hot Tub, Newly Remodeled, Dog Friendly, Close to Skiing!

Lakefront Donner Lake Home, Private Hot Tub, Newly Remodeled, Dog Friendly, Close to Skiing!

Truckee CA
Lakefront Donner Lake Home, Private Hot Tub, Newly Remodeled, Dog Friendly, Close to Skiing!
Dog-friendly waterfront cabin w/ lake views & access - close to slopes

Dog-friendly waterfront cabin w/ lake views & access - close to slopes

Truckee CA
Dog-friendly waterfront cabin w/ lake views & access - close to slopes
3 bedroom, 2 bath Sleeps 8 adults Direct Lake Access DLR#041 w/Hot Tub

3 bedroom, 2 bath Sleeps 8 adults Direct Lake Access DLR#041 w/Hot Tub

Truckee CA
3 bedroom, 2 bath Sleeps 8 adults Direct Lake Access DLR#041 w/Hot Tub
Donner Lake Inn

Donner Lake Inn

2 out of 5
10070 Gregory Pl Truckee CA
Donner Lake Inn
Donner Lake mountain-view delight - multi-level deck & private hot tub views

Donner Lake mountain-view delight - multi-level deck & private hot tub views

Truckee CA
Donner Lake mountain-view delight - multi-level deck & private hot tub views
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Donner Lake

At Donner Lake, visitors can indulge in a variety of activities including skiing at nearby resorts, swimming in the pristine waters, and boating on the lake. Explore the stunning surroundings while engaging in outdoor adventures and leisure activities that promise fun for all. This picturesque destination offers an ideal setting for both relaxation and exciting outdoor experiences.

Shopping

Discover the charming shops along Commercial Row, a vibrant shopping centre located 6.4km from Donner Lake, perfect for gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Scott Chair, 17.7km away, or the Tahoe City Farmers' Market, 19.3km away, for delightful local finds.

Recreation

Experience the serene Ponderosa Golf Course, where you can enjoy a round of golf amid stunning natural scenery, only 8.0km from Donner Lake. Alternatively, Coyote Moon Golf Course, just 4.8km away, offers a charming atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. For relaxation, visit Olympic Valley Park, 14.5km away, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.

Adventure

Northstar California Resort, located 12.9km from Donner Lake, offers exhilarating skiing and outdoor adventures amidst stunning mountain scenery. Sugar Bowl Resort, 6.4km away, provides thrilling sports opportunities for ski enthusiasts. Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area, only 3.2km from the lake, boasts fantastic slopes for all skill levels.

Nightlife

The nightlife at Donner Lake offers a charming blend of laid-back bars and vibrant entertainment. Visit the Ponderosa Tavern for a relaxed atmosphere and local brews. For a lively evening, check out the cozy live music scene at the Truckee River Winery, where you can enjoy delightful wines and great performances.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Donner Lake

Donner Lake in Truckee, California, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and serene beauty, making it a perfect destination for tourists. Visitors can explore ski resorts, nature preserves, and state parks while enjoying the picturesque lakefront views. With options for skiing, hiking, and relaxing by the beautiful Donner Lake, this area also provides easy access to the stunning Lake Tahoe, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveller seeking adventure and tranquility.

  • Palisades Tahoe: Located 14.5km from Donner Lake, Palisades Tahoe is a premier ski resort offering thrilling skiing and snowboarding experiences. With its stunning mountain scenery and diverse terrain, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and winter sports.
  • Old Greenwood Golf Course: Just 11.3km away from Donner Lake, this golf course is set amidst breathtaking scenery, featuring lush fairways and pristine landscapes. It offers a unique blend of challenging play and relaxing accommodation, perfect for golf lovers.
  • Brockway Summit: Situated 17.7km from Donner Lake, Brockway Summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Ideal for outdoor activities, this peak is a must-visit for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Donner Lake

The best time to visit Donner Lake can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Donner Lake falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Donner Lake falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January29.8°F (-1.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February29.8°F (-1.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly High
March32.7°F (0.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April39.0°F (3.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June58.1°F (14.5°C)No RainSunnyHighAverage
July66.9°F (19.4°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
August65.1°F (18.4°C)No RainSunnyHighAverage
September59.0°F (15.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October47.7°F (8.7°C)Light RainSunnyLowSlightly Low
November36.0°F (2.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December28.8°F (-1.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Tips to save on your trip to Donner Lake

  • Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
  • Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically May and October to November) for more affordable package holidays to Donner Lake.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.

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