Self-Guided Driving Tour from Tahoe City to Donner Summit

Lake Tahoe , United States

Self-Guided Driving Tour from Tahoe City to Donner Summit

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(1 reviews)

2h - 3h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Follow the Donner Party pioneers' trail as you hear their ill-fated saga unfold on this self-guided driving tour. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive self-guided driving tour from Tahoe City to Donner Summit.

When the Reed family became trapped and snowbound in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, their lives would never be the same. On this driving tour, you’ll hear Virginia Reed’s firsthand account of the challenges and victories that these members of the Donner Party pioneer group experienced while stranded for almost four months, through the 12-year-old’s journal.

On the drive, you'll visit the Donner Memorial State Park, take in the spectacular view from the top of the Donner Summit, and contemplate the difficulties the Donner Party experienced in the winter of 1846–47.

You may stop where you want, when you want, and for as long as you want. It’s up to you!

Available options

Self-Guided Driving Tour from Tahoe City to Donner Summit

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

This is the tour's starting point, offering a glimpse into the picturesque beauty of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding alpine forests.

This is where the tour begins, providing historical context and artifacts related to the Donner Party and the region’s history.

Follow the path of the Truckee River, which offers stunning views and insights into the natural challenges faced by the Donner Party.

Drive through Truckee, a charming town known for its rich history as the Ice Capital of the West, with optional opportunities to explore and enjoy local shops and eateries.

Explore the historic heart of Truckee, learning about its past and the significance of its location on the Donner Party’s route.

This optional stop offers in-depth exhibits on the Donner Party, including personal artefacts, diaries, and detailed historical accounts.

Take in the sights of the scenic lake, which was a key location for the Donner Party and provides a sobering view of the area where they were stranded.

This offers spectacular views of Donner Lake and the surrounding mountains, giving perspective on the terrain and conditions faced by the Donner Party.

The Donner Summit is a significant point on the journey, highlighting the challenges of crossing the Sierra Nevada and the historical importance of the summit.

The final stop, with an option to visit the abandoned Donner Pass train tunnel #6, offering a unique historical and adventurous experience.

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

Meeting point

The tour starts at the Parking Lot of the Gatekeepers Museum, 130 W Lake Blvd., Tahoe City, California (39.166390, -120.143661). The entrance to this parking lot is off of W. Lake Blvd. in Tahoe City between Fanny Bridge and Bank of the West.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a breathtakingly beautiful alpine lake straddling the border between California and Nevada. Known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain scenery, and year-round outdoor activities, it's a premier destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax in a picturesque setting.

Top Attractions

Emerald Bay State Park

A stunning natural area known for its clear waters, granite cliffs, and the historic Vikingsholm mansion. The park offers hiking, picnicking, and scenic views.

Nature 2-4 hours Free (parking fee in summer)

Heavenly Mountain Resort

One of the largest ski resorts in the U.S., offering world-class skiing, snowboarding, and summer activities like mountain biking and gondola rides.

Adventure Full day Moderate to Expensive (lift tickets and rentals)

Tahoe City

A charming lakeside town with a historic downtown, shops, restaurants, and waterfront activities. It's a great place to experience the local culture and enjoy the lake.

Cultural Half day to full day Free to explore, costs vary for activities

Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows

A premier ski resort offering exceptional skiing, snowboarding, and summer activities. It's known for its challenging terrain and beautiful scenery.

Adventure Full day Moderate to Expensive (lift tickets and rentals)

D.L. Bliss State Park

A beautiful state park with sandy beaches, clear waters, and scenic hiking trails. It's a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Lake Tahoe.

Nature Half day to full day Free (parking fee in summer)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tahoe Trout

A local delicacy, often grilled or pan-seared and served with lemon and herbs. The trout is known for its delicate flavor and is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Dinner Gluten-free, low-carb options available

Gourmet Pizza

Lake Tahoe is famous for its gourmet pizzas, often featuring local ingredients like wild mushrooms, fresh trout, and artisanal cheeses.

Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Craft Beer

The region is home to several craft breweries, offering a variety of local beers. Many restaurants and bars feature these brews on tap.

Drink Gluten-free options available at some breweries

Sierra Nevada Wine

While not as famous as Napa or Sonoma, the Sierra Nevada region produces excellent wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

Drink Vegan and organic options available

Popular Activities

Skiing Snowboarding Hiking Mountain biking Water sports Beach lounging Spas and wellness retreats Scenic gondola rides

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) and Winter (December to March)

Summer offers ideal weather for water activities, hiking, and sightseeing, while winter brings excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. Both seasons are popular for different reasons.

15-30°C (summer), -5-5°C (winter) 59-86°F (summer), 23-41°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, French, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7) (Daylight Saving Time observed)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Lake Tahoe is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in most areas. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards and take precautions to stay safe.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when driving in winter conditions.
• Carry a map and compass for hiking, as cell service can be spotty.
• Be aware of wildlife and store food properly to avoid attracting animals.

Getting there

By air

Reno-Tahoe International Airport • 50 miles (80 km) from South Lake Tahoe
Sacramento International Airport • 120 miles (193 km) from South Lake Tahoe

By bus

South Lake Tahoe Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the primary form of public transportation, with routes connecting major towns and attractions. Services are frequent in summer and winter, but less so in shoulder seasons.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

South Lake Tahoe Tahoe City Incline Village Truckee

Day trips

Virginia City

30 miles (48 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Half day to full day

A historic mining town with a rich past, offering a glimpse into the Old West. Visit museums, shops, and saloons that hark back to the 19th century.

Yosemite National Park

120 miles (193 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Full day or overnight

One of the most iconic national parks in the U.S., known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. A must-visit for nature lovers.

Reno, Nevada

40 miles (64 km) from South Lake Tahoe • Half day to full day

A vibrant city known for its casinos, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Explore museums, art galleries, and enjoy the nightlife.

Festivals

Tahoe City Winter Sports Park Festival • January Tahoe Rim Trail Endurance Run • June Tahoe Shakespeare Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Emerald Bay State Park for stunning views and hiking trails.
Take a gondola ride at Heavenly Mountain Resort for breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Explore Tahoe City's historic downtown and waterfront activities.
Try local specialties like Tahoe Trout and gourmet pizzas.
Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons.