Donner Lake is one of my favorite spots in Truckee, known for its stunning alpine scenery and super easy access to the water. One of the coolest things about the lake is the 37 public piers, which you can drive right up to. They’re perfect for soaking up the sun, hanging out by the water, or just taking in the views.

It’s also a fantastic place for paddleboarding and kayaking. My favorite time to head out is early in the morning when the lake is calm and the fog drifts off the water. It seriously feels dreamy. It’s also an easy-access spot to catch or photograph the sunrise. And if you’re into fishing, Donner Lake is a great place for it too — you’ll sometimes see small charters heading out at dawn.