Family Summer Escape

Person in colorful outfit swinging over scenic mountain and lake view.

Create lasting memories in Truckee, where laughter echoes through pine forests, lake days turn into stargazing nights, and family adventure awaits at every turn.

This five-day summer itinerary offers a joyful mix of outdoor fun, creative play, and downtime together making it perfect for families with curious kids and adventure-loving adults.

Length

5 days

Locations

12+ experiences

When to visit

June – September
Family Hiking Lake Tahoe

Hike to Picnic Rock

A moderate, family-friendly hike that pays off big with panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. Pack plenty of water and snacks — kids love reaching the “top” and spotting boats below.

Duration

2-3 hours

Beach Time at West End Beach (Donner Lake)

Beach Time at West End Beach (Donner Lake)

Splash, build sandcastles, rent paddleboards, or just soak up the mountain sunshine. The playground and snack bar add to the fun.

Duration

3 hours

Donner Lake Docks Picnic and Jumping In

Picnic Dinner + Dockside Sunset

Grab pizza or salads from Village Pizzeria and enjoy a relaxed evening on one of Donner’s public docks. Bring a blanket and let the kids stay up for golden hour.

Duration

2 hours

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Whole Treats Bakery

Morning Sweets at Whole Treats Bakery

Kick off the day with a stop at this local spot near the Legacy Trailhead. We recommend pumpkin donut holes or a Truckee bar to fuel your ride.

Duration

30 minutes

Man steering a boat with two passengers, smiling under a sunny sky.

Boating at Donner Lake or Lake Tahoe

Rent a boat or join a tour for a few hours on the water. Cruise along Donner Lake’s peaceful shoreline or head to Lake Tahoe for wide-open alpine views. Families can enjoy swimming, tubing, or simply soaking

Duration

3-4 hours

Outdoor concert with a crowd enjoying music at sunset, trees in the background.

Live Music in Downtown Truckee

Every summer evening, downtown comes alive with live music. Grab dinner nearby or just bring the family to enjoy the festive, small-town mountain vibe.

Duration

1-1.5 hours

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KidZone Museum

KidZone Museum (Morning)

This local gem is great for younger kids (under 10), with interactive science exhibits, art spaces, and outdoor nature play.

Duration

2 hours

Donner Memorial State Park

Nature Scavenger Hunt + Picnic at Donner Memorial State Park

Pick up a junior ranger booklet or print your own scavenger hunt. Walk the Lakeside Interpretive Trail, visit the museum, and picnic under the trees.

Duration

3 hours

Starry night sky with Milky Way over a silhouetted bridge and trees.

Evening S’mores + Stargazing

Whether you're camping or staying in a cabin, end your day with gooey s’mores and a sky full of stars.

Duration

1 hour

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Group rafting with a golden retriever on a sunny river, surrounded by trees.

Truckee River Float (Tahoe City to River Ranch)

Rent a raft or bring tubes for this classic summer float. It’s mellow, scenic, and filled with splashy fun, winding past pine forests and under bluebird skies. Plan for water fights, laughter, and a well-earned bite at the end.

Duration

3-4 hours

Magic Carpet Golf, Carnelian Bay

Mini Golf at Magic Carpet Golf

After your float, head into Carnelian Bay for a casual round of mini golf or snacks at the café. It's the perfect low-effort fun that’s great for all ages.

Duration

1 hour

Fifty Fifty Brewery Truckee Tahoe

Dinner at FiftyFifty Brewing Co. or Drunken Monkey

Burgers, brews, and kid-friendly comfort food at FiftyFifty, or try sushi and small plates at Drunken Monkey for more adventurous eaters.

Duration

1.5 hours

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Family enjoying a sunny day by the lake; child on a man's shoulders, another with a woman.

Lake Day

Soak up summer at one of Lake Tahoe’s stunning beaches. Whether you're looking for clear water swimming, boulder hopping, or just a place to lounge, these beach options offer a perfect summer sendoff.

Sand Harbor State Park

Sand Harbor (East Shore)

Famous for its crystal-clear water and dramatic boulders. Ideal for swimming, exploring, or simply relaxing.

Duration

Half to full day

Children smiling while sliding down a playground slide in summer clothing.

Commons Beach (Tahoe City)

A great family-friendly option right in town with grassy picnic spots, a playground, and shallow water for little swimmers. Pack a cooler, bring the beach toys, and make a full day of it—or just swing by for a sunset dip.

Duration

2-3 hours

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