Family friendly Donner Pass tunnel hike offers adventure, history

What started as a spontaneous conversation about dog-friendly adventures turned into one of the best family hikes we've discovered since moving to Lincoln. After hearing about the Donner Pass Railroad Tunnel Hike from a local farm owner, our family decided to pack lunch and explore the historic tunnels on a whim. The decision couldn't have been better. Located just an hour and 20 minutes from northwest Lincoln, the Donner Summit Tunnels offer families a unique blend of history, stunning Sierra views and manageable adventure. The 4.5-mile round-trip hike takes visitors through tunnels 6, 7 and 8, carved through solid granite more than 150 years ago. The trail provides welcome relief from triple-digit valley heat, with temperatures dropping noticeably at the 7,031-foot elevation. Between tunnels, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of the Tahoe National Forest. What families should know: - The hike typically takes 2-3 hours with photo stops.- Elevation gain is a gentle 250 feet.- Sturdy walking shoes recommended for uneven terrain.- Bring flashlights for darker tunnel sections.- Dogs welcome on leashes.- No entrance fee required.- Getting there: Turn off Donner Pass Road at Sugar Bowl Road and follow signs to the dirt parking lot at Tunnel 6's west entrance (coordinates: 39.31660° N, 120.32984° W). The tunnels showcase colorful graffiti art that transforms the historic railway into an outdoor gallery. Tunnel 6 tends to have more puddles, while tunnels 7 and 8 remain mostly dry. For families with younger children, the initial three tunnels provide plenty of adventure. More ambitious hikers can continue to tunnel 9, which offers views of Donner Lake. The Donner Pass tunnels represent a remarkable engineering feat. Workers carved 15 tunnels through granite to overcome the Sierra Nevada, with Tunnel 6 stretching 1,659 feet and taking two years to complete. This adventure proves that some of the best family outings happen when you follow local recommendations and embrace spontaneity. For more information, visit donnersummitca.com or californiacrossings.com. Discovering family friendly destinations and adventures beyond our backyard. Got story ideas, questions or comments? Email Jessica Harrison at jessicah@goldcountrymedia.com.