Donner Lake Tours

Things to do near Donner Lake

Donner Lake offers a variety of activities for visitors, including skiing, swimming, and boating. While in the area, explore additional attractions in Truckee such as the Highlands Gondola for stunning views, enjoy a lakeside experience at Donner Lake, and visit the Truckee Museum for local history. Whether you're planning a ski vacation or simply looking to relax, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Food and drinks

For fun donuts, visit the Truckee Donut Company, where you'll find unique flavors that delight. Sunnyside Restaurant offers beautiful lake views and serves hearty American classics. Don't miss the hidden gem, The Rustic Table, known for its farm-to-table dishes that showcase local ingredients.

Shopping

For shopping near Donner Lake, visit Commercial Row, a vibrant shopping center only 4 miles away, offering family-friendly vibes and entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, check out Scott Chair, a unique store located 11 miles from the lake, perfect for finding special gifts.

Recreation

At Coyote Moon Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, perfect for sports enthusiasts. The Spa at Everline offers rejuvenating body treatments that promote relaxation and wellness. North Tahoe Regional Park features serene trails and recreational activities, ideal for those seeking tranquility in nature.

Adventure

Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area offers thrilling runs and breathtaking views, located 2 miles from Donner Lake. Sugar Bowl Resort, 4 miles away, features diverse terrain for all skill levels, while Disney Express Ski Lift, also 4 miles distant, provides easy access to exhilarating slopes and stunning alpine scenery.

Nightlife

At Donner Lake, the nightlife is vibrant and diverse. The Cal Neva Casino and Crystal Bay Casino, both 15 miles away, offer thrilling gaming experiences with a romantic atmosphere. For a cultural touch, the Tahoe Art Haus & Cinema, 12 miles away, presents entertaining films in a charming setting.

Find the best attractions near Donner Lake

Donner Lake offers a variety of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts, including ski resorts, beautiful beaches, and national parks. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery at iconic Donner Summit and explore nearby Lake Tahoe and Squaw Valley for adventure-filled experiences. Don't miss the chance to relax at the beaches or engage in water activities while soaking in the breathtaking natural beauty of the area.

• Palisades Tahoe: Located just 9 miles from Donner Lake, this stunning ski resort offers thrilling outdoor adventures year-round. In winter, enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding, while summer brings hiking and mountain biking trails with breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada.
• Donner Memorial State Park: Only 3 miles from Donner Lake, this national park is rich in history and natural beauty. Explore scenic trails, picnic areas, and the touching memorial dedicated to the Donner Party, all set against a backdrop of towering pines and serene landscapes.
• West End Beach: Just 1 mile from Donner Lake, West End Beach is the perfect spot for relaxation and fun in the sun. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and picnicking while soaking in the beautiful lake views and sandy shores.

Best time to go to Donner Lake

The best time to visit Donner Lake is dependant 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	Average
May	47.3°F (8.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
July	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	65.1°F (18.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Donner Lake

To save money on your trip to Donner Lake, visit during the off-peak months of May and October to November for lower accommodation rates. Enjoy free access to attractions like West End Beach and North Tahoe Regional Park. Consider booking your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Utilize their search tool to filter by budget and save even more by bundling flights, hotels, and activities. Don’t forget to join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and the chance to earn OneKeyCash for future stays.

• 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 best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Donner Lake is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Donner Lake with your flights and activities by booking a package through Expedia.
• 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.