Best Things to do in Truckee | Must-see attractions 2025

KidZone Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

11711 Donner Pass Road

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KidZone Museum in Truckee, CA offers hands-on exhibits and programs for children, focusing on interactive learning through play in a safe environment.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special programs may require a paid ticket.

Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

12593 Donner Pass Rd

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Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum explores the tragic history of the Donner Party with exhibits and artifacts from their journey to the West Coast.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Truckee Gallery

11:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

10950 Industrial Way # B102

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Truckee Gallery is an artist-run co-op in Truckee, USA, featuring diverse art forms such as painting, photography, sculpture, and more, with accessible artist studios.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events and workshops may require registration or fees.

Art Obsessions

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Gallery

_10072 Donner Pass Road

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Art Obsessions in Truckee showcases local and regional art, featuring works from emerging artists alongside unique collections in various media.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some workshops may require a fee.

Truckee Railroad Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

10075 Donner Pass Rd

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Truckee Railroad Museum highlights the transformation of the Truckee area through railroad history, showcasing antique locomotives and artifacts.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Gray's Crossing

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

13051 Fairway Dr

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Gray's Crossing, located in Truckee, CA, features a challenging 18-hole golf course designed by Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy amidst beautiful Sierra Nevada scenery.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees vary by season and time of day. Check the official website for the latest pricing and discounts.

Truckee River Regional Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

10050 Brockway Rd

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Truckee River Regional Park is a riverside park in Truckee, California, featuring a children's playground, hiking paths, and a disc-golf course.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Disc-golf may require a rental fee for equipment.

Alpine Meadows Ski Resort

8:30 AM–4:00 PM

Ski Area

2600 Alpine Meadows Rd (Hwy. 89)

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Alpine Meadows Ski Resort in Truckee offers extensive trails, diverse terrain, and multiple lifts, catering to all skiing skill levels in a beautiful mountain environment.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Paid. Day passes are typically required for access.

Coyote Moon Golf Course

6:30 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

10685 Northwoods Blvd

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Coyote Moon Golf Course in Truckee is an 18-hole championship course featuring beautiful mountain vistas and a challenging layout designed by golf architect Fred Bliss.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees vary; typically $100 for adults, discounts for locals and twilight rates available.

Mount Lincoln Express

8:00 AM–4:00 PM

Ski Lift

Truckee

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Mount Lincoln Express is a chairlift located in Truckee, California, providing access to ski slopes, scenic views, and year-round outdoor activities.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets start at $139 for full-day access.

Lahontan Golf Club

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

California

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Lahontan Golf Club in Truckee, California, offers a scenic 18-hole championship golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf, featuring stunning mountain views and pristine natural landscapes.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Membership required. Costs vary by membership type.

Ponderosa Golf Course

6:30 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

10040 Reynold Way

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Ponderosa Golf Course in Truckee, California, offers a well-maintained golfing green, a pro shop, snack bar, and comprehensive facilities for enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

Paid. Pricing varies, with rental and lesson fees additional.

Northstar California Resort

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Ski Area

5001 Northstar Dr (at Highway 267)

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Northstar California Resort in Truckee offers cozy accommodations, ski runs, restaurants, and mountain tours in a picturesque setting.

Duration: 4-6 hours.

Ski lift tickets vary; adult prices start at $119. Discounts available for children and multi-day passes.

Arrow Express

9:00 AM–8:00 PM

Ski Lift

Truckee

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Arrow Express in Truckee offers a charming mountain retreat featuring outdoor activities, dining options, and unique local shopping experiences.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some activities may have associated costs, such as rentals or guided tours.

Backside Express

8:30 AM–4:00 PM

Ski Lift

Truckee

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Backside Express in Truckee offers a winter sports experience with diverse ski trails, breathtaking views, and convenient access to outdoor activities.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Adults: $100, Children: $50. Discounts available for multi-day passes.

Big Springs Express Gondola

8:30 AM–5:00 PM

Ski Lift

Village at Northstar (Northstar Drive)

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Big Springs Express Gondola in Truckee, USA, offers a scenic ride to Northstar California Resort, providing breathtaking views and access to various outdoor activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Adults: $39, Children (6-12): $19, Discounted rates available for groups.

Comstock Express

8:30 AM–4:00 PM

Ski Lift

100 Northstar Dr (at Northstar California Resort)

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Comstock Express provides thrilling skiing and snowboarding experiences in Truckee, featuring a variety of trails and scenic mountain views.

Duration: 4–6 hours, depending on skiing level and breaks.

Single day lift tickets range from $99 for adults to $57 for children, with discounts available for multi-day passes.

Highlands Gondola

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Ski Lift

California

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Highlands Gondola in Truckee offers breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains, providing access to top skiing and hiking terrains.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Paid. Adult tickets start at $45. Children under 12: $30.

Martis Camp Express

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Ski Lift

Truckee

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Martis Camp Express is a private country club in Truckee, California, offering exceptional golf, dining, and access to year-round outdoor activities for members and guests.

Duration: 4-6 hours recommended for golf and dining.

Membership only. No public access for individuals without current membership.

Promissed Land Express

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Ski Lift

100 Northstar Dr (at Northstar California Resort)

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Promissed Land Express in Truckee, USA, offers a unique scenic train ride through beautiful landscapes, ideal for families and nature lovers.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Adults: $20, Children (under 12): $10. Discounts available for seniors and groups.

Tahoe Zephyr Express

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Ski Lift

Northstar California Resort

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Tahoe Zephyr Express, operating since 1998, offers a scenic gondola ride in Truckee, California, providing views of Lake Tahoe and its surroundings.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Adult: $30, Child: $15. Seasonal discounts may apply.

Village Express

8:30 AM–4:00 PM

Ski Lift

Truckee

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Village Express is a high-speed chairlift in Truckee, providing access to Northstar California Resort's ski slopes and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 3 hours.

Varies by season. Adult tickets: $89, Child tickets: $49. Discounts available for multi-day passes.

Vista Express

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Ski Lift

Truckee

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Vista Express in Truckee offers scenic views, outdoor activities, and a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great destination for visitors seeking adventure in nature.

Duration: About 4 hours.

Pricing varies by activity; zip line tours start at $70 for adults and $50 for children.

Boreal Mountain California

9:00 AM–9:00 PM

Ski Area

19749 Boreal Ridge Rd

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Boreal Mountain California provides visitors with exhilarating skiing and snowboarding experiences in Truckee, United States, featuring scenic mountain views and access to pristine lakes.

Duration: 4-6 hours.

Day pass prices range from $69 for adults and $39 for children under 12. Discounts available for multi-day purchases.

Donner Pass

Open 24 hours

Monument

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Donner Pass is a mountain pass in the Sierra Nevada, California, located 9 miles west of Truckee, with a history of exploration and outdoor activities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Parking fees may apply in certain areas.

Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Ski Area

11603 Snowpeak Way

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Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Resort in Truckee, California, is a family-friendly ski destination featuring beginner hills and ski programs.

Duration: Approximately 4-6 hours.

Paid. Ski passes required for slope access, varying by age and duration.

Tahoe Donner Association

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Ski Area

11509 Northwoods Boulevard

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Tahoe Donner Association in Truckee offers diverse recreational amenities, including skiing, golf, equestrian facilities, and outdoor events. A hub for community and nature.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Access is typically for members and their guests; fees apply for specific activities.

Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Ski Area

15275 Alder Creek Rd

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Tahoe Donner Cross Country Ski Center offers diverse skiing and hiking trails in Truckee, California, alongside a casual restaurant with mountain views.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Paid admission. Prices vary by age category.

Donner Summit Bridge

Open year-round, 24 hours.

Bridge

10060 Donner Pass Rd

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Donner Summit Bridge, located in Truckee, California, is an engineering marvel spanning the Sierra Nevada range, enhancing travel since the 1920s.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Access to the bridge does not require a ticket.

Pioneer Monument

Open 24 hours

Monument

12593 Donner Pass Rd

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Pioneer Monument in Truckee, California, commemorates the early settlers of the Sierra Nevada and their contributions to the region's history.

Duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Free. No ticket required for general access.

Assumption Catholic Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

10930 Alder Dr

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Assumption Catholic Church in Truckee, California, serves the community with its rich history and welcoming environment. An essential site for local worship and events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for maintenance and community activities.

Schaffer's Mill Golf Club

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

9045 Heartwood Dr

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Schaffer's Mill Golf Club in Truckee offers a meticulously designed 18-hole golf course, blending luxury with nature's beauty amidst the Sierra Nevada.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Members only. Access for guests is through member invitations.

Tahoe Donner

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Ski Area

11509 Northwoods Blvd

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Tahoe Donner in Truckee, CA, features a serene cross-country ski resort designed by Olympian Glenn Jobe, offering family-friendly runs and an equestrian center in summer.

Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours.

Varies by season. Check the resort's site for specific pricing on ski passes and equestrian activities.

Northstar California

8:30 AM–4:00 PM

Ski Area

5001 Northstar Dr

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Northstar California is a renowned resort in Truckee, offering top-notch skiing and snowboarding with eight terrain parks and a variety of ski runs for all levels.

Duration: More than 4 hours.

Paid. Lift tickets vary based on season and age, with discounts available for early bookings.

The Golf Academy at Old Greenwood

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Golf Course

12915 Fairway Dr

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The Golf Academy at Old Greenwood offers a premier golfing experience in Truckee, California, emphasizing quality instruction and practice facilities set against scenic mountain backdrops.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Varies by lesson type. Group lessons may offer discounts; check the academy's website for details.

Northstar California Resort Golf Course

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

168 Basque Dr

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The Northstar California Resort Golf Course in Truckee offers a scenic 18-hole course designed by famed designer, Robert Muir Graves, featuring high-altitude views and diverse landscapes.

Duration: 4-5 hours.

Green fees vary; generally $100-$150 for adults depending on the season.

Truckee Amtrak

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Train Station

10065 Donner Pass Rd (btw Spring St & Bridge St)

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Truckee Amtrak station, an essential transit hub in Truckee, California, provides convenient access to scenic train routes and serves as an important stop for travelers to Lake Tahoe.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Standard ticket pricing applies. Discounts may be available for seniors, children, and students.

Boca Reservoir Campground

Open 24 hours

Camping

Boca Rd

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Boca Reservoir Campground in Truckee offers camping, fishing, and water activities amidst scenic views, with direct access to recreation trails.

Duration: Full day recommended.

Free. Camping fees apply per night.

Donner Memorial State Park

Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset

National Park

12593 Donner Pass Rd

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Donner Memorial State Park is a scenic area located at the eastern end of Donner Lake. It commemorates the tragic history of the Donner Party while offering beautiful trails, a sandy beach, and a visitor center with historical exhibits.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

$10 vehicle entrance fee

Historic Downtown Truckee & Visitor Center

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Landmark

10065 Donner Pass Road

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Historic Downtown Truckee is a charming area for shopping and dining. It offers a glimpse into the town's rich history through its well-preserved buildings and culture.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

West End Beach

10:00 AM-5:00 PM

Park

off Donner Pass Rd

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West End Beach is a day-use park located on Donner Lake. It features a sandy beach, swimming area, volleyball nets, and boat rentals for water sports.

Duration: approx. 1-2 hours

Free

Historic Downtown Truckee

10:00 AM-6:00 PM

Sights

Donner Pass Road

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Historic Downtown Truckee is a charming area filled with old buildings and unique shops. It showcases the town's rich history and has many restaurants and art galleries to explore.

Duration: approx. 2-3 hours

Free

Donner Lake Vista Point

Open 24 hours

Landmark

631 Coyote St

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Donner Lake Vista Point offers stunning views of Donner Lake and the surrounding mountains. This spot is a great place for photography and enjoying nature.

Duration: approx. 30 minutes

Free