Summer & Warm-Weather Trails & Activities

Recommended Trails

• Donner Lake Rim Trail — A scenic trail stretching toward Donner Summit, blending forested singletrack with ridgeline and lake views. Great for a full-day hike or a more relaxed outing depending on how much you explore. (Visit Truckee Tahoe)

• Martis Valley Loop — A gentle, open-meadow loop ideal for a relaxed hike, trail run, or family outing. Especially lovely in late spring through early fall. (Visit Truckee Tahoe)

• Truckee River Legacy Trail — A paved, easy trail that runs along the Truckee River, suitable for walking, biking, running, or bringing dogs along. Great for a calm stroll or a low-key outdoor session. (Tahoe Getaways)

• Judah Loop Trail — A moderate 5.5-mile loop near historic trail corridors, weaving through meadows and offering Sierra views — a solid mid-level hike in summer. (Visit Truckee Tahoe)

• Local Multi-Use & Nearby Trails (like those in Tahoe Donner) — Summer trail maps from Tahoe Donner show many shorter, mellow trails that are great for easy hikes, mountain biking or scenic strolls if you live or stay nearby. (Tahoe Donner)

Getting Your Map & Planning Ahead

• You can download an official region-wide trail map from the local visitor resources to explore the full network of scenic paved paths and dirt trails. (Visit Truckee Tahoe)

• Planning apps like AllTrails or local printed maps (available at outdoor shops) are useful since cell coverage can be unreliable on remote paths. (Visit Truckee Tahoe)

Winter & Snow-Season Trails & Activitie

Winter-Friendly Routes & Snowshoe Trails

• Coldstream Canyon — A great spot for a mellow snowshoe outing after a storm, with spaced-out trees and good sunlight on clear winter days. (Tahoe Fabulous)

• Commemorative Overland Emigrant Trail — Offers a nice chance to explore history and landscape on snowshoes when winter hits. The route can lead you toward scenic views like those near Prosser Creek Reservoir. (Tahoe Fabulous)

• Snow-friendly paved paths in town — Many of the paved multi-use trails around Truckee remain plowed in winter, making them ideal for walking, running, or dog walks even when dirt trails are buried under snow. (Visit Truckee Tahoe)

• Local network trails in Tahoe Donner — The winter trail maps from Tahoe Donner show cross-country ski and snowshoe options for locals or visitors living nearby. (Tahoe Donner)

Winter Tips & What to Know

• Always check snow and trail conditions before heading out — some trails require snowshoes or traction devices when snow and ice are present. (Visit Truckee Tahoe)

• Dress in layers, bring water, and plan for shorter daylight hours in winter.

• Paved trails are a great option for safe walking or gentle movement when snow makes dirt trails challenging.

Why Nature & Outdoor Time Matters

Spending time outside helps reduce stress, improve mood, and reconnect you with the rhythm of the natural world. In places like Truckee and Tahoe, being immersed in mountains, rivers, lakes, forests, and open skies can offer clarity, calm, and balance.

Whether you’re walking along a river after work, hiking a mountain trail for fresh air, or snowshoeing under evergreen trees in winter, nature offers a space to recharge, reflect, and feel grounded.

Getting Started

• Download a local trail map (digital or print) before you head out.

• Choose a trail that fits your energy level

• Share your plan with a friend, especially for remote hikes or winter outings.

• Enjoy at your own pace. Listen, breathe, and let the surroundings guide you.