Truckee, California's history began in 1863 as Gray's Station, named after Joseph Gray's Roadhouse on the trans-Sierra wagon road. The area was renamed Coburn's Station in 1866, and then Truckee in 1868 after a Paiute chief named Tru-ki-zo, whose name sounded like “Tro-kay” to white men. The chief helped guide thousands of emigrants west across the Humboldt Sink in 1844, often shouting “Tro-kay!”, which means “everything is all right” in Paiute.
Truckee is known for its logging, ice harvesting, the Emigrant Trail, and the Donner Party. The town is located in the Northern Sierra Nevada, a short distance from Lake Tahoe and Donner Lake. Truckee's historic downtown has charming shops and restaurants in authentic historic buildings, 32 of which contribute to the historic designation. The Commercial Row–Brickelltown Historic District, the C.B. White (Kruger House), the Truckee Veterans Memorial Building, and Rocking Stone Tower are all on the National Register of Historic Places.
Jump into the action at NorthStar California Resort for family fun skiing, tubing, snowboarding, ice skating, biking and more!
NorthStar is a great place to adventure with friends and family. They also offer lessons for those who are new to skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking.
A stunning alpine lake perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming. The public piers around the lake make it easily accessible and a great spot for a relaxing day by the water.
This park offers beautiful nature trails, lakeside picnic areas, and a museum dedicated to the Donner Party tragedy. The Pioneer Monument and scenic lake views are must-sees.
A family-friendly scenic trail perfect for hiking and mountain biking. The trail offers beautiful views and a peaceful outdoor experience.
Wander through the historic downtown area, filled with unique shops, cozy cafes, and delightful restaurants. The old-west charm and colorful buildings make it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.
Go back in time to the old Wild West on this tour from South Lake Tahoe to Virginia City, Nevada, including a train ride on the Virginia & Truckee Railroad. With a guide, you’ll start your day trip by minibus, driving along part of the Pony Express. When you reach Virginia City, a National Historic Landmark District, take a 6.5-mile round-trip train ride before enjoying free time in town to explore at your leisure, perhaps visiting museums or a historical saloon.
The steam train operates only during the weekends, so if you want that rustic old time feel, book a weekend adventure with Wild West Tours, otherwise you can enjoy a more modern train ride during the week.
Offering a broad range of equine activities for the Truckee Reno Tahoe area including summer horse camps, scenic trail rides, and training in both English and Western disciplines. Their focus is on helping individuals communicate and connect with their equine partner. Out there, no words, text messages, or photos will connect you with a horse - you have to show up, take a chance, and find a way to connect on a natural level. Are you up for the adventure?
Go whitewater rafting in central California on 5 area rivers near Lake Tahoe and Central California. With offering 30+ years of guided whitewater river trips they offer rafting trips suitable for all ages and abilities. From first-time beginners, and intermediate thrill seekers, to expert whitewater enthusiasts. Go whitewater rafting on their Family Friendly Class II-III beginner & intermediate sections on the Truckee River, Carson River, and South Fork American River. Go whitewater rafting on Class IV+ adrenaline-pumping advanced river tours on the North Fork American and Middle Fork American Rivers.