Find hotels near Donner Lake, Truckee from $180

Top reasons to visit Donner Lake

• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy skiing at local resorts, hiking scenic trails, and exploring state parks surrounding Donner Lake.
• Stunning Scenery: Take in breathtaking lake views and picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography and relaxation.
• Charming Town Attractions: Explore the quaint town of Truckee, offering unique shops, dining, and local culture.
• Leisure Activities: Spend relaxing days by the lake with picnics, swimming, and boating options available.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy inns to family-friendly resorts for a comfortable stay tailored to your needs.

Find great hotels near Donner Lake

Discover the perfect getaway at Donner Lake with a range of accommodations tailored for every traveler, from cozy inns to family-friendly resorts. Whether you're seeking adventure on the slopes, a serene lakeside retreat, or a vibrant ski vacation experience, Donner Lake hotels and vacation rentals offer the ideal base for your stay. Unwind and create lasting memories in this picturesque setting, just minutes from Truckee, California.

• Everline Resort and Spa, Lake Tahoe: Nestled 9 miles from Donner Lake, Everline Resort and Spa is a 4-star retreat perfect for business and adventure travelers. This resort boasts extensive facilities, including multiple meeting rooms and a business center, making it ideal for corporate gatherings. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the on-site golf experience, while adventure seekers can partake in a variety of activities such as snowshoeing, hiking, and nearby rafting. The combination of business amenities and recreational opportunities makes this resort a unique destination for both work and play.
• Palisades Tahoe Lodge: Located 9 miles from Donner Lake, the 3.5-star Palisades Tahoe Lodge offers a welcoming environment for families and adventure lovers. With close access to ski lifts and shuttles, this hotel is a ski enthusiast's paradise. Guests can enjoy a range of activities, from tubing and kayaking to mountain biking and rock climbing. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly amenities, including onsite babysitting and activities like sledding. This lodge is the perfect base for a fun-filled ski vacation.
• Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe Hotel: Situated 5 miles from Donner Lake, the Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe Hotel is a pet-friendly option that caters to adventure seekers. The hotel offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and rafting. With a pet-friendly policy that allows dogs, this hotel ensures that your furry friends can join in on the adventure. Guests can enjoy comfortable accommodations and easy access to nearby recreational opportunities, making it a great choice for an active getaway.

Where to stay near Donner Lake

Donner Lake offers a memorable getaway for travelers seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy relaxing days by the lake, perfect for picnics with family and friends, or explore the nearby Lake Tahoe for skiing and exciting excursions. With friendly locals and picturesque views, this destination is ideal for romantic escapes or thrilling adventures, ensuring a delightful experience for every visitor.

• Truckee: Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Truckee is a vibrant city that serves as a gateway to adventure and outdoor experiences. With its proximity to Donner Lake, visitors flock here year-round, especially in January, March, and July. The area is renowned for its ski resorts and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Explore picturesque trails, enjoy the local dining scene, or partake in community events. Key attractions include the breathtaking national state parks and the serene lake itself, providing endless opportunities for both relaxation and adventure.
• Southside Highlands: A charming village located just 0.3 miles from Donner Lake, Southside Highlands offers stunning scenery and a romantic atmosphere. This area sees a surge in visitors during the summer months of June to August, as travelers seek outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes. Enjoy access to the nearby river and national state park, perfect for hiking, picnicking, or simply soaking in nature's beauty. The village is also known for its ski resorts and fields, making it an ideal spot for winter sports lovers, while the tranquil surroundings offer a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind.
• Donner Lake Woods: Located approximately 1 mile from Donner Lake, Donner Lake Woods is a serene neighborhood that attracts visitors year-round for its stunning outdoor experiences and scenic beauty. The peak travel times in February and from July to August draw nature lovers and couples seeking a romantic getaway. With easy access to ski resorts and fields, this area is a haven for winter sports aficionados. Additionally, the nearby lake and national state park provide ample opportunities for exploration, fishing, and hiking, ensuring a fulfilling escape into nature.

Things to do near Donner Lake

Donner Lake offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors, including skiing, swimming, and boating. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore adventurous hiking trails, while those seeking leisure can enjoy a golf trip or visit charming town attractions. Don’t miss the stunning views from the highlands gondola, making your trip to this beautiful destination truly unforgettable.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience near Donner Lake, head to Commercial Row, located 4 miles away, offering a vibrant mix of entertainment and local businesses. If you're up for a drive, check out Scott Chair and Tahoe City Farmers' Market, both about 11 and 12 miles away, respectively.

Recreation

At Coyote Moon Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes just 3 miles from Donner Lake, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For relaxation, Olympic Valley Park offers serene wellness spaces 9 miles away, while the Village Ice Skating Rink, 8 miles from the lake, provides exciting adventure and entertainment.

Adventure

At Northstar California Resort, 8 miles from Donner Lake, enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding amid breathtaking mountain views. Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area, only 2 miles away, offers thrilling slopes for skiers of all levels. Sugar Bowl Resort, 4 miles from the lake, combines adventure and sports in a stunning alpine setting.

Nightlife

At Donner Lake, the nightlife is vibrant and inviting. The Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema, located 12 miles away, offers a unique blend of culture and entertainment, perfect for a romantic evening or family outing. Enjoy captivating films in a cozy atmosphere for a memorable night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Donner Lake

To save money on your trip to Donner Lake, consider visiting in April or October to November, when prices are lower compared to peak months like February, July, and December. Tuesdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Saturdays are the most costly. Use Expedia's search tool to find affordable hotel options and consider booking a package deal for additional savings on flights and activities. Joining the One Key membership can also unlock exclusive discounts and cash rewards for future stays, making your trip even more budget-friendly.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Donner Lake are April and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Donner Lake is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Donner Lake is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you’ll be shown sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Donner Lake with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Donner Lake

Donner Lake offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, from skiing at local resorts to exploring the scenic beauty of the nearby state parks and preserves. Visitors can enjoy stunning lake views, unwind at the Truckee Donner Lodge, and take leisurely strolls around the Donner Lake area. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, this picturesque destination is perfect for making lasting memories in the California wilderness.

• Palisades Tahoe: Located 9 miles from Donner Lake, this renowned ski resort offers thrilling skiing and snowboarding experiences amidst breathtaking mountain views. In the summer, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking, making it a year-round adventure destination.
• Donner Memorial State Park: Just 3 miles away, this national park features stunning scenery and rich history. Explore trails that wind through beautiful landscapes and learn about the historic Donner Party while enjoying outdoor activities like picnicking and hiking.
• West End Beach: Only 1 mile from Donner Lake, West End Beach is a perfect spot for relaxation and fun. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach activities while taking in the picturesque views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Best time to go to Donner Lake

The best time to visit Donner Lake is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	29.8°F (-1.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly High
March	32.7°F (0.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	39.0°F (3.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
May	47.3°F (8.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	High	Average
July	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	65.1°F (18.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	High	Average
September	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	47.7°F (8.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
November	36.0°F (2.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
December	28.8°F (-1.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Donner Lake

When visiting Donner Lake, the major airports to consider are Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) and Truckee Tahoe Airport (TKF). Reno-Tahoe International Airport is situated 29 miles away and offers nearby hotel options like the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino and Peppermill Resort Spa Casino, both just 1 mile from the airport. Truckee Tahoe Airport is much closer at 6 miles from Donner Lake, with luxurious accommodations including The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, located 4 miles away. Lake Tahoe Airport (TVL) is another option, located 33 miles from Donner Lake, featuring hotels like Edgewood Tahoe Resort, just 6 miles away. Each airport provides accessible transportation to these nearby hotels.