Outdoor Adventurer

Kids jumping off a dock into a lake, sunny day, shadow visible.

Discover the rush of summer in Truckee, a place where trails climb to big views, lakes invite a refreshing plunge, and adventure awaits around every bend.

This four-day itinerary is your trail map to high-alpine adventure, adrenaline-pumping fun, and lakeside serenity—all wrapped in the wild beauty of Truckee-Tahoe.

Length

4 days

Locations

10 experiences

When to visit

June - September
Donner Summit Canyon - Wooden picnic table overlooking a forested mountain view with a clear blue sky.

Hike Donner Summit Canyon

Wander through wildflowers, granite boulders, and historic emigrant wagon routes. This trail blends beauty and storytelling, ending with views of Donner Lake.

Duration

3 hours

Man paddleboarding on clear water under a blue sky.

Paddleboard or Kayak on Donner Lake

Rent gear from a local marina and enjoy the still morning waters or a sunset float. It is calm, clear, and surrounded by scenic peaks.

Duration

2 hours

Donner Lake Dock Truckee Tahoe Sunset

Lakeside Picnic + Sunset

Grab takeout from Smokey’s or Golden Rotisserie, then head to Donner Lake’s west end. Watch the sunset from the shore or from one of 30+ public docks.

Duration

2 hours

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Cyclists riding on a forest trail with mountains in the background.

Mountain Bike the Emigrant Trail

Ride through pine forests and sagebrush with smooth flow and low technical difficulty, it's perfect for intermediate riders.

Duration

3 hours

Climber scaling large rock, lake and mountains in background.

Rock Climb at Castle Peak or Donner Summit

Bring your gear or hire a local guide. These iconic granite walls offer short sport climbs or epic trad routes.

Duration

3 hours

Woman playfully holds pretzel over her face in a cozy setting.

Après Adventure at Alibi Ale Works

Celebrate the day’s effort with a cold beer and good food in a laid-back beer garden atmosphere.

Duration

2 hours

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Cyclists riding along a riverside path in a scenic, grassy landscape.

Scenic Ride on the Legacy Trail

Ride this smooth, riverside path from downtown to Glenshire. Enjoy views of the Truckee River and learn about local history from interpretive signs along the way.

Duration

2 hours

Legacy Trail - Truckee River, Glenshire

River Jump Stop

Need to cool off? Pause along the trail to dip your toes or wade into the river. A few mellow access spots make it an easy and fun break.

Duration

1 hour

People toasting drinks under red umbrellas on a wooden deck.

Brunch or Lunch in Downtown Truckee

Refuel riverside at 1882 Bar & Grill, or keep it casual at Cornerstone Kitchen & Bakery with flexible menu options. Don’t miss a quick stroll through Truckee’s historic downtown.

Duration

2 hours

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Emerald Pools - Rocky cliff with green trees above a serene lake.

Swim + Scramble at Emerald Pools

Take a half-day detour to this natural swimming hole paradise just off Hwy 20 near the South Yuba River. Giant granite slabs, emerald-green pools, and smooth rock slides make this a dreamy spot to lounge, swim, or cliff-jump (cautiously, of course).

Duration

3 hours

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