Donner Lake
The shores of Donner Lake are touched by snowmelt from the surrounding peaks, and its public piers invite summer-long sunbathers, paddleboarders, and yoga classes. Its primary bank of homes sit above the lake’s North shore in a large swath of forest that shields them from I-80’s descent into Truckee. True lake cottage homes line Donner Pass Road, interspersed with many new, glass-fronted homes suited for views of the craggy Donner Summit and its namesake aquatic counterpart. The south shore is a testament to exemplary residential architecture and bonafide mountain lake living. Expect a wide range of home prices.