Donner Lake

Both families and second homeowners reside at Donner Lake, most within walking distance of the lake. History buffs and nature seekers often are drawn to this area bordered by the Donner Memorial State Park on the east and Donner Summit on the west. Up Old Highway 40 is the historic China Wall and the Rainbow Bridge built in 1925. The area also is a favorite with rock climbers. At the west end of the lake, the Truckee-Donner Recreation and Park District maintains a beach with a snack bar and playground. People can purchase a season pass or pay-per-use charge. A public boat launch is available. The Donner Lake neighborhood offers a breathtaking alpine setting where lakefront homes start at approximately $900,000 up to $5,000,000. A few lakefront lots are still available from $500,000. Lakeview lots are priced from $90,000 to $495,000 and are one or more blocks from the lake. Lakeview homes are priced from $350,000. The west end of the lake has older, rustic cabins priced from $200,000. The condominiums around Donner Lake run from $50,000 to $275,000 and have associated condo fees. Homeowners may join the Donner Lake Property Owners Beach Club with an initiation fee and annual dues thereafter. The homeowners association dues provide access to a private beach. This is a fantastic year round rental income area.