Truckee Tunnels Hike Trail Report

Alright, so Tiffany insists the correct name is the “Donner Tunnels Trail”. Of course, she is correct.

Overall the trip was enjoyable. Despite being a hot day the tunnels were cool. A slight draft when in the tunnels which was only really noticeable around the portals.

Trail Condition and Geography

We began at the top of the trail at Tunnel #6 and descended towards Truckee. The descent is around railroad grade which is mostly noticeable on the way back up. Total trail length is 3 miles from start to the new right of way.

The trail itself is made of crushed rock. In some places the underlying dirt may be exposed however it is rare and well graded. You’ll be walking through tunnels carved through hard rock, snow sheds constructed with concrete slats, and in several places direct sun.

It was projected to be 84F on the day of our hike, with a peak around noon, then fall to 80F by 4p. Sun was intense and very warm.

Our Contingent

In total we had 4 family units with most age ranges represented including the U5, U10, tween, young adults, and many adults.

U5s were able to make it through about 2/3rds of the route. One U5 was training for this hike however chose to hang out with their friend. They played along the route.

U10s was able to complete the tunnel segments but had no desire to continue the last about 3/4s of a mile.

We had one couple continue on to the right away.

Water Consumption

I consumed approximately 2L of water in total. Tiffany consumed approximately .5L of water.

Time of Year Notes

There were a lot of active bats. There was a heavy bat smell within parts of the tunnels. This smell was not present in November when I went last.

There were small patches of snow on distant peaks. There was a lot of ground water in certain segments creating puddles on the ground.