Summer is one of the most magical times to visit Truckee. Whether you’re looking to bag a peak, taste some local culinary creations, or enjoy a quiet moment in nature Truckee offers something for everyone. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite things to do in Truckee this summer to help you start planning an adventure you won’t forget.
Hiking and Biking in Truckee
Truckee is home to some world-class trails with options for almost any ability level. Start with the Legacy Trail, this paved multi-use path follows the Truckee River giving users access to view some of the region’s natural ecosystems along the river corridor. Bonus, the Legacy Trail links you right to Soaring Ranch where you can grab a bite to eat, pick up some supplies for the trail or unwind with a relaxing massage. For something a bit more adventurous, the Donner Lake Rim Trail is a multi-use dirt path that climbs the ridges around Donner Lake giving hikers, bikers, and equestrians beautiful views of the Pacific Crest, Mount Rose, and Donner Lake.
The Truckee River seen from the Legacy Trail
Visit Historic Downtown Truckee
Once a bustling lumber and railroad town, Truckee’s historic downtown still carries much of that old western mountain town charm. Today, downtown Truckee is home to some local restaurants, delightful boutiques, and hints of Truckee’s past. Start by visiting the Truckee Historical Jail Museum on Jaboom street before heading down Donner Pass Road to visit the boutiques and grab a bite to eat.
Donner Historic State Park
For a more in-depth education about Truckee’s local history, the Donner Memorial State Park provides a full day of exploration. Learn about the indigenous tribes that called this area home, the colonial settlers including the Donner Party who braved traveling in harsh winter conditions to come to California in search of gold, and the people who constructed the transcontinental railroad connecting Truckee to the rest of the country.
Live Music in Truckee
Looking to get your boogie on? Truckee offers endless opportunities to enjoy live local music. On select Thursdays throughout the summer, the downtown is transformed into a street fair combining local artisans, food trucks, and live music for Truckee Thursdays. The event is a much love tradition for locals and visitors alike. Head over to the Truckee Regional Park every Wednesday evening for Music in the Park – pack your favorite snacks because picnics are encouraged. As if that’s not enough to get those dancing shoes moving, there are a plethora of local venues including Alibi Ale Works, Moody’s Bistro, and Bar of America that host live music almost every weekend. And finally, head to Raleys ONE at Soaring Ranch every second Sunday of the month for their Art & Music Show hosted with Truckee Arts Alliance.
Local Food & Drink in Truckee
One of the best ways to enjoy a region is by sampling the local food and drink. Get your food straight from the source at the Truckee Certified Farmer’s Market every Tuesday in the summer at Truckee Regional Park. If you can’t make it to the Farmer’s Market, don’t fret – you can find some locally sourced meat and produce at Raleys ONE in Soaring Ranch Truckee is also home to a handful of craft breweries that really capture the flavor of the region including Truckee Brewing Company (coming soon to Soaring Ranch!) Alibi Ale Works, and The Good Wolf Brewing.