One of Truckee’s hidden gems sits atop Donner Summit at 7,000 feet. Clair Tappaan Lodge was constructed in 1934 by Sierra Club volunteers, and, just like Donner Summit itself, the rest is history. The stunningly rustic mountain lodge offers accommodations for up to 145 guests, many of whom are cross-country skiers and snowshoers in winter and hikers, rock climbers and cyclists in summer. The lodge is about 2 miles from the famed Pacific Crest Trail. Being an old-school lodge, accommodations vary from single-gender dorms with lockers and bunk beds to two-person rooms with twin-size beds. For those traveling in a group there are private rooms ideal for between five and 12 people. All accommodations share men's and women’s bathrooms with several showers, sinks and toilets in each. The volunteer spirit continues to run deep at Clair Tappaan, with groups able to receive volunteer discounts for helping with operations of the lodge. Volunteering can include shoveling snow, splitting firewood and various kitchen duties. The lodge’s dining options include family-style breakfasts and dinners. Guests can prepare bagged lunches to take with them on their daily adventures. The entire lodge is available for group rental.
Clair Tappaan Lodge
19940 Donner Pass Road, Norden, CA
(530) 426-3632