Nature in Truckee-Tahoe

Purple lupines in a field at sunset, with a pier and mountains in the background.

Two bears facing each other with noses touching, one sticking out its tongue.

Discover the Wild Heart of the Sierra Nevada

From snow-dusted forests to sunlit meadows, alpine lakes to golden aspen groves, Truckee is a year-round gateway to the Sierra Nevada’s awe-inspiring natural beauty. Whether you're spotting a bald eagle soaring over the Truckee River or hiking through wildflower-filled trails, nature here isn’t something you observe, it’s something you experience.

This region is home to a rich mosaic of ecosystems and wildlife, shaped by elevation, seasons, and stewardship. We invite you to explore responsibly and connect deeply with this incredible place we call home.

Bald eagle perched on pine tree, forest and lake in the background.

Wildlife in Truckee

Get to know the animals who call this region home, from elusive red foxes to songbirds and bears. Learn where and how to spot them—and how to protect them.

Wildlife in Truckee

Purple lupines in a field by a lake at sunset with a vibrant sky.

Flora, Forests & Wildflowers

Dive into Truckee’s botanical bounty. Discover our high-elevation forests, native plants, and wildflower displays that change with the seasons.

Flora, Forests & Wildflowers

Mountain pond with pine trees and blue sky with clouds.

Alpine Lakes & Watersheds

Meet the waterways that shape Truckee’s geography and life. Discover crystal alpine lakes and meander along the famous Truckee River. Learn about their ecological role and beauty.

Alpine Lakes & Watersheds

Hiker with a pink backpack stands near a tree, overlooking a mountainous landscape.

Tahoe National Forest & Wilderness

Covering nearly a million acres, TNF is your entry to remote trails, high peaks, and protected wilderness areas like Granite Chief and Castle Peak.

Tahoe National Forest & Wilderness

Aerial view of a turquoise lake surrounded by pine forests and mountains under a clear blue sky.

California State Parks in Truckee-Tahoe

Explore nearby state parks rich in both natural beauty and local history. From Donner Memorial to Lake Tahoe's shores, there’s something for every kind of explorer.

California State Parks in Truckee-Tahoe

Man in a "Sustainable Truckee Ambassador" shirt outdoors near parked cars.

Conservation & Stewardship

Truckee’s natural beauty endures thanks to the work of local organizations and mindful visitors. Find out how you can help protect what you came to enjoy.

Conservation & Stewardship