A hot spot for all types of recreational activities, Donner Lake is an idyllic destination that you’ll definitely want to visit as the weather starts to warm up. Not only is it surrounded by the most outstanding scenery including the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevadas and the iconic Donner Pass, but it’s also the perfect destination for family-friendly summer fun. This clear water lake will mesmerize you with its unending beauty and endless adventure, so start planning an escape to this bright blue body of water soon.
Considered the "Jewel of the Sierra", beautiful Donner Lake is the focal point for many adventures in this region of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. With so much to do and see around the lake, every visit to this glistening mountain lake proves to be a memorable experience.
Three miles long and three-quarters of a mile wide, Donner Lake's bright blue waters immediately catch your eye amid the rich landscape. Surrounded by the dense Tahoe National Forest and a towering backdrop of mountains, the views are simply spectacular.
The lake is certainly nice to look at, but it's also a mecca for recreation. Swimming, boating, fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, rock climbing—there's something for everyone to love at beautiful Donner Lake.
The freshwater lake also boasts 37 public piers along the north shore. These are perfect for fishing, crawdad hunting, jumping into the lake, tying up a boat, or simply laying out beneath the sun. There's never a dull moment at this vibrant lake, that's for sure.
In fact, the lake is especially well-known for its fishing. Home to some of the largest Lake Trout in the state, Donner Lake is a true angler's paradise. Brown and Rainbow Trout along with Kokanee Salmon also populate the lake.
Donner Memorial State Park is also located along the eastern shore of the lake. In addition to preserving the site of the ill-dated Donner Camp, the park itself presents plenty of opportunities for camping, picnicking, and other great summer fun around the lake.
On a sunny day in the Sierras, there's no better place to be than on the waters of gorgeous Donner Lake. Whether you spend the day or spend an entire weekend, your time at this brilliant lake will be something to remember.
When’s the last time you visited Donner Lake? Tell us about your favorite clear water lake in NorCal in the comments below. Summer will be here before you know it and we can’t wait to visit this beautiful destination once it arrives!
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