The Tahoe National Forest, California State Parks, and designated Wilderness areas in and near Truckee-Tahoe protect thousands of acres of natural habitat for unique Sierra Nevada plants, wildlife, and native fish species. These designated government protection areas preserve the region’s fascinating history and provide endless public land for activities like hiking, fishing, biking, and bird watching.

Tahoe National Forest

This large forest covers a huge expanse in the northern Sierra Nevada, over 800,000 acres from the California foothills at its western edge, up and over the Sierra Crest to Verdi Peak on its eastern edge. It’s divided into four districts - Truckee Ranger District, Sierraville Ranger District, Yuba River Ranger District, American River Ranger District - each one featuring its own unique wildlife, plants, and landscape.

Historical sites can be found throughout the Tahoe National Forest, telling the story of the region’s interesting and diverse past. Historic events include Native American travel, overland migration to California, Gold Rush mining, and the construction of the transcontinental railroad and early automobile routes.

An abundance of recreational opportunities makes the Tahoe National Forest one of the most popular National Forests in the US. There is fly fishing on mountain rivers and streams, many miles of hiking trails, including the 2,650 mile long Pacific Crest Trail, and 100’s of miles of world-class singletrack for mountain and e-biking.

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Donner Memorial State Park

3 miles from Truckee, 7 minute drive. Parking fees apply.

Located on the east shore of Donner Lake, Donner Memorial State Park might be one of the most scenic state parks in California... at least we think so! A great place to launch a kayak or SUP and soak up the scenery from the water, keeping your eyes peeled for bald eagles and osprey! Features include swimming beaches, 8 miles of hiking trails, and lakeside picnic areas with stunning views.

Along with its natural beauty, the park preserves the culture and history of the area. Stop by the Visitor Center or take an interpretive tour to learn about the Donner Party, early settlers, the Washoe Tribe, the builders of the transcontinental railroad, and much more.

View our Guide to Donner Memorial State Park to learn more.

Granite Chief Wilderness

21 miles from Truckee, 30 minute drive

To the west of Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows lies a 25,680 designated wilderness area - the Granite Chief Wilderness. Lush mountain meadows and rugged peaks are plentiful, providing a home for Sierra Nevada plants and animals. Wilderness is open to non-motorized recreation only, things to do here include hiking and river and stream fishing.

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Desolation Wilderness

32 miles from Truckee, 45 minute drive

While its name may suggest a barren landscape, Desolation Wilderness is just the opposite. This 63,960 acre wilderness area is teeming with life - healthy forests, wild plants and animals, colorful wildflowers, and lakes and streams filled with fish. Some of the region’s most breathtaking, rugged scenery can be found here, among 9000 ft granite peaks and glacially carved valleys and lakes. With Truckee as your home base, you can easily explore Desolation Wilderness on a day hike or overnight backpacking trip.

Permits required for day use and overnight trips.

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Lakes Basin Recreation Area

52 miles from Truckee, 1 hour 10 minute drive

Love alpine lakes? Then a short day trip north to Lakes Basin Recreation Area in the Plumas National Forest is a must, where there are over 20 glacially carved alpine lakes, most accessible via hiking trails. Don’t overlook this small recreation area filled with breathtaking scenery and an abundance of activities. Spend a day swimming, fishing, boating, mountain biking, picnicking, or hike to a waterfall!

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Independence Lake Preserve

21 miles from Truckee, 40 minute drive

Independence Lake Preserve is a 45 minute drive west from Truckee, the last 5 miles of which are on a well graded dirt road. It protects Independence Lake, a 2.4 mile long lake carved by ancient glaciers, and its entire watershed. Along with gorgeous scenery, it’s a very special home to one of only two wild, self-sustaining lake populations of Lahontan cutthroat trout in the world - a fish that has been lost from 99% of its historic range.

This off the beaten path spot should be on every bird watcher’s bucket list, so remember to pack your binoculars! There are trails for hiking and biking, picnic tables, and a fleet of boats that are free for the public to use. Because invasive species pose a risk to the lake’s native fish, outside watercraft are not allowed. Take advantage of the sit-on-top single and tandem kayaks, pontoon float tubes, and small motorized boats available Memorial Day weekend through October 1st.

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Truckee Donner Land Trust

The Truckee Donner Land Trust (TDLT) plays an important role in preserving and protecting scenic, historic, and recreational lands. They've preserved nearly 40,000 acres of open space, built new trails and campgrounds, and created numerous opportunities for recreation.

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