The Small Town in Northern California That Comes Alive During the Winter Season

People enjoy Lake Tahoe all year round, but the town of Truckee, California experiences a boom of tourists in the winter. Even if you don’t enjoy skiing, you’ll love this mountain town for a small-town getaway in Northern California. It truly comes alive during the winter season!

The picturesque town of Truckee is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range just 12 miles north of Lake Tahoe. At 5,980 feet, it receives a hefty blanket of snow in the winter months and that’s when the town really comes alive. With a population of just over 17,000, Truckee might be considered more of a large town or a very small city. Either way, it retains its small-town feel, ideal for those of you considering a winter getaway in Northern California.

Truckee is about 40 minutes from Reno in Nevada County. It is a perfect starting point to explore the surrounding nature, ski resorts, and Lake Tahoe. Skiers, snowboarders, mountaineers, and many people eager to experience all winter has to offer flock to Truckee in the winter months. January is the coldest month in Truckee and a great time to ski the many nearby slopes.

With an average of 42 feet of snow each year, this is the place to ski, snowboard, and snowshoe. Drive just 15-45 minutes outside of Truckee to reach one of seven world-renown ski resorts. Just a short drive from Truckee in Soda Springs is the largest cross-country ski resort in North America – Royal Gorge.

The beautiful alpine area is just steps away from Donner Memorial State Park and Tahoe National Forest, and stunning Lake Tahoe is just a short drive away. Visiting each of these nature spots is among the best things to do in Truckee, California.

End a day of adventure in downtown Truckee dining at one of the many cozy mountain restaurants. The chef at Restaurant Trokay was previously a chef at the award-winning Restaurant Daniel in New York City. There is also Alibi Ale Works, a rustic pub with home-brewed beers. Or just walk around downtown and check out the many other restaurants and pubs to see what appeals to you.

Truckee is located off of Interstate 80. You can also get there via Amtrak. A station is located right in downtown Truckee. The beautiful train ride through the mountains is a favorite route for train travelers. It travels past snow-covered peaks and forests. This is one ride where you won’t need to look down at your phone to pass the time!

Yearly visitors to Truckee are more likely to rent a cabin than a hotel, which makes the town feel less commercialized. You can take a look at this Lovely Cabin in Truckee if you desire to stay in a cozy vacation rental. However, if you prefer a hotel, check out the Tahoe Star Hotel located by the Truckee River or the Gravity Haus Truckee-Tahoe.

Are you ready for a small-town getaway in Northern California? What are your favorite things to do in Truckee? While it's a beautiful place to be this time of year, make sure you bundle up and stay warm.