Find hotels near Donner Lake, Truckee from $64

Top reasons to visit Donner Lake

• Year-Round Outdoor Activities: Enjoy skiing in winter and swimming, boating, or hiking during the warmer months at Donner Lake.
• Scenic State Parks: Explore beautiful state parks that offer breathtaking views and diverse recreational opportunities.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodges, including Truckee Donner Lodge, perfect for families and adventurers alike.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: Experience enchanting landscapes, whether lounging on the lake's shores or venturing into nearby mountains.
• Perfect Blend of Adventure and Relaxation: A great destination for those seeking both excitement and serene getaways.

Find great hotels near Donner Lake

Discover the perfect getaway at Donner Lake with a range of accommodation options tailored for family adventures and ski enthusiasts. From the charming Truckee Donner Lodge to the scenic Donner Lake Vacation Lodge, you'll find a variety of mountain and nature lodges that cater to your needs. Enjoy a memorable stay surrounded by stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, ensuring a fantastic vacation experience in this beautiful California destination.

• Everline Resort and Spa, Lake Tahoe: Experience the pinnacle of adventure and relaxation at the 4-star Everline Resort and Spa, rated 8.8 by guests. Located 9 miles from Donner Lake, this resort is ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike, offering easy access to ski lifts and shuttles. The property features an array of adventure sports options such as onsite mountain biking, fishing, and snow tubing nearby. With amenities tailored for children, including a game room and sledding opportunities, Everline promises a fantastic vacation for all ages, combining outdoor fun with luxurious relaxation.
• Palisades Tahoe Lodge: Embrace the charm of the 3.5-star Palisades Tahoe Lodge, which also boasts a guest rating of 8.8. This cozy lodge, situated 9 miles from Donner Lake, is perfect for families and skiing enthusiasts. With convenient access to ski lifts and shuttles, guests can easily hit the slopes. The lodge provides family-friendly amenities, such as onsite childcare and nearby sledding options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for travelers with children. The inviting atmosphere makes it a delightful retreat after a day of outdoor adventures.
• Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe Hotel: For budget-conscious travelers seeking adventure, the Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe Hotel is a perfect choice. Rated 8.6 and located 5 miles from Donner Lake, this hotel offers pet-friendly accommodations, making it ideal for those traveling with furry companions. Guests can enjoy various adventure sports nearby, including fishing and sailing. With its welcoming amenities for pets and a relaxed atmosphere, this hotel provides a great base for exploring the stunning outdoors without breaking the bank.

Where to stay near Donner Lake

Discover the enchanting vibes of Donner Lake, where outdoor adventures and serene getaways blend seamlessly. Whether you're skiing down the slopes or soaking in breathtaking views, every moment here feels magical. Explore the beautiful shores of Donner Lake or venture into the surrounding mountains for unforgettable scenery. This wonderful place offers the perfect backdrop for romance and adventure, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation.

• Truckee: Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Truckee offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and charming town vibes. As the gateway to Donner Lake, this vibrant city attracts visitors year-round, particularly during the peak months of January, March, and July. Travelers flock here for skiing, hiking, and an array of outdoor activities. With its ski resorts and access to breathtaking national parks, Truckee is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Don't miss the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding alpine scenery that make this area truly special.
• Southside Highlands: Just 0.3 miles from the serene shores of Donner Lake, Southside Highlands is a picturesque neighborhood known for its stunning scenery and romantic atmosphere. Visitors often come here to enjoy outdoor activities, with peak travel times in January and July to August. The neighborhood boasts access to ski resorts and family-friendly beaches, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation alike. Whether you’re looking to take a tranquil walk by the lake or indulge in some thrilling winter sports, Southside Highlands has something for everyone.
• Donner Lake Woods: Located about 1 mile from Donner Lake, Donner Lake Woods is a charming neighborhood that perfectly encapsulates the beauty of the Sierra Nevada. It’s a popular destination for those interested in outdoor activities, with peak visitor numbers occurring in January and the summer months. The area features stunning views of the lake, river, and nearby beaches, making it a wonderful choice for romantic getaways or family adventures. With easy access to ski resorts and walking trails, Donner Lake Woods invites you to explore and enjoy its natural wonders.

Things to do near Donner Lake

Donner Lake offers a variety of outdoor adventures for visitors, including skiing in the winter and swimming and boating during the warmer months. Whether you're looking to hit the slopes or enjoy a relaxing day on the water, there are plenty of activities to keep you engaged in this beautiful setting. Embrace the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that Donner Lake has to offer for an unforgettable vacation experience.

Shopping

In the Donner Lake area, you can explore local shops like Donner Lake Market for unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out The Village at Northstar, about 12 miles away, offering a variety of boutiques and shops for a delightful shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience the luxury of Montreux Golf Club, a private country club 23 miles from Donner Lake. Enjoy a round of golf amidst stunning landscapes, followed by relaxation at the clubhouse. The tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings make it an ideal spot for rejuvenation and leisure.

Adventure

At Donner Lake, enjoy kayaking on crystal-clear waters, hiking scenic trails with breathtaking views, and mountain biking through picturesque landscapes. For thrill-seekers, try paddleboarding or fishing, while in winter, explore nearby ski resorts for exhilarating skiing and snowboarding adventures.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Donner Lake with a visit to the Truckee River Winery for wine tasting and live music. For a relaxed atmosphere, check out Moody's Bistro & Lounge, where you can enjoy cocktails and a cozy vibe after a day of outdoor adventures.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Donner Lake

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Donner Lake are May 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 for you to choose your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will highlight sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at Donner Lake with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions near Donner Lake

Donner Lake in Truckee, California, offers a variety of attractions for every type of traveler. You can explore scenic state parks, enjoy outdoor activities at local preserves, or tee off at nearby golf courses. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural experiences, or stunning views, the area provides ample opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and local charm, making your visit truly memorable.

• Donner Memorial State Park: Located 3 miles from Donner Lake, this park offers stunning scenery and a variety of outdoor adventures. Explore hiking trails, picnic areas, and learn about the history of the Donner Party at the visitor center.
• Olympic Museum: Situated 9 miles away, the Olympic Museum immerses you in the world of sports and culture. Discover exhibits highlighting the history of the Olympics and the athletes who have shaped this global event.
• Old Greenwood Golf Course: Just 7 miles from Donner Lake, this golf course provides a beautiful setting for golf enthusiasts. Enjoy picturesque views while playing on this well-maintained course surrounded by nature.

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.

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	Average
May	47.3°F (8.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
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

To visit Donner Lake, you can fly into several major airports. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is 83 miles away, with nearby hotel options like the DoubleTree by Hilton and Kimpton Sawyer Hotel, both about 9 miles from the airport. Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) is much closer at 29 miles, offering excellent hotels such as the Peppermill Resort Spa Casino and Grand Sierra Resort, both just 1 mile away. For even closer access, Truckee Tahoe Airport (TKF) is only 6 miles from Donner Lake, with the luxurious Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe located 4 miles away. This variety of airports and accommodations makes your journey to Donner Lake convenient.