You can’t beat fall in Truckee with the crisp mountain air and warm afternoon sun making this time of year perfect for hiking, riding, running, or climbing with gorgeous colors as a backdrop. Our local population of Aspen and cottonwood trees put on a spectacular display of yellow, orange, and gold that pair well with our evergreen forests. If you are interested in seeing some of Truckee’s more “locally” known fall places to see the foliage then check out these lesser-known trails.
Top 3 Lesser-Known Fall Hikes In Truckee, CA
Warren Lake
We all know of Truckee’s iconic Castle Peak, the towering mountain that greets you as you drive in from Highway 80 West, but what lies just beyond that is a hiking trail to Castle Peak’s summit. The backside holds spectacular terrain including the Frog Lake Cliffs above Frog Lake and Warren Lake further north.
- Type – Out and back or loop
- Distance – 13.9 miles
- Elevation Gain – 3927 feet
- Alltrails Map
Commemorative Overland Emigrant Trail
Follow a historical wagon route traveled by early settlers in 1844! While the Commemorative Overland Emigrant Trail is more than 15 miles long (one way), starting across from Carpenter Valley Road and hiking out and back to Alder Creek makes for an excellent day hike. This quiet section meanders alongside a creek through open meadows and stands of aspen and pine, a great choice for a relaxing stroll or beginner mountain bike ride.
- Type – Out and back
- Distance – 5.2 miles
- Elevation Gain – 403 feet
- Alltrails Map
Donner Summit Canyon
Donner Summit Canyon follows the predecessor to Donner Pass Road. This route is the historical Dutch Flat/Donner Lake Wagon Road which eventually became the old Lincoln Highway. As you hike towards the summit, imagine driving an early, hand-crank automobile up the steep road grade that has an 18% grade in places! At the top of the canyon, you can access a Native American Petroglyph site, the China Wall, as well as the world’s first automobile underpass. The highlight of this hike is a scenic picnic spot about a mile up the trail where you are treated to a birds-eye view of Donner Lake.
- Type – Lollipop loop
- Distance – 3.9 miles
- Elevation Gain – 531 feet
- Alltrails Map
Looking for other great tips? Visit Truckee-Tahoe’s site for more great adventure ideas in and around Truckee!
