Cabin

Overlooks Donner Lake

Photo gallery for Overlooks Donner Lake

Front deck view
Outdoor dining
View from the lake and Donner Pass Road
Living Area
Living area

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 8130.1 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Truckee, CA
  • Donner Lake
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Sugar Bowl Resort
    ‪22 min drive‬
  • Truckee, CA (TKF-Truckee Tahoe)
    ‪10 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

Sleeping loft

4 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Overlooks Donner Lake

PLEASE NOTE: The Town of Truckee has implemented new short-term rental guidelines that limit the number of guests to 2 per bedroom. Since the cabin has three bedrooms, plus the sleeping loft, that limits the number of guests allowed. However, the ordinance does allow for the addition of 2 children aged 12 and younger, which brings the total number of guests allowed to 8.

Enjoy the views of beautiful Donner Lake and Schallenberger Ridge in the Central Sierra Nevada Range from our cozy cabin's large deck or front windows. Our cabin is located in the middle of snow country. Northstar, Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows, Donner Ski Ranch, Sugar Bowl, Royal Gorge and Tahoe Donner are all within 15-20 minutes from our door. Ice fishing up the hill at Prosser Lake. Donner State Park, which is just a mile and a half from us at the end of the lake, has trails for snowshoeing and cross country skiing.
As our cabin has direct access to the lake; in summer, fish or swim off the dock in front of us, enjoy the many water sports possible on the lake, or take a 20 minute ride over to North Tahoe to enjoy the 'big lake' on the mountain. There are 7 golf courses within 15-18 minute drive, historic Truckee and the Transcontinental Railroad to explore. Rock climbing, hiking, shopping, live music /concerts, mountain biking in the area, are all possibilities. Gambling/Casinos in Reno about 35 minutes up Interstate 80.
Our cabin is approximately 1400 square feet in size with space for two cars to park right by the back door. The main entrance to the cabin is from the back. As you enter, you have the kitchen on your right and a door into the main level bedroom and bathroom on your left. This bedroom has a queen bed and the bathroom has a tub/shower combination. Beyond the eating bar is the living area with an 8 foot dining table on one side and a couch and loveseat facing the fireplace on the other. Downstairs there are two bedrooms and a small bath. One bedroom has two twins and the other bedroom has a queen bed. From the downstairs hallway, you can go into another hallway that has a washer and dryer, a wood room that houses the wood for the fireplace and a door to the outside to take steps down to the road and lake. The loft is open to the main level and has 4 twin beds. Three of these beds are very close to each other (best for kids). There is another parking pad at lake level for one car.
THIS IS A NO SMOKING PROPERTY. NO PETS.

Property manager

Norma and Bill Markley

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:30 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Occupancy allows up to 6 adults + 2 under 12 kids.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Odor detected, security deposit is forfeited..
This is a NO SMOKING/PETS property! If property contents are moved during your stay, please return them to their original location before you leave.
NO pets allowed.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
Property Registration Number STR001288

About the area

Truckee

Truckee is home to this cabin. Palisades Tahoe and Northstar California Resort are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Donner Lake. KidZone Museum and Olympic Valley Park are also worth visiting. Take in the nearby slopes with skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
Map
Truckee, CA

What's nearby

  • Donner Lake - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Donner Memorial State Park - 10 min drive - 6.2 km
  • Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area - 17 min drive - 13.2 km
  • Sugar Bowl - 21 min drive - 12.1 km
  • Sugar Bowl Resort - 22 min drive - 12.1 km

Getting around

  • Truckee Station - 7 min drive
  • Truckee, CA (TKF-Truckee Tahoe) - 10 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Wild Cherries Coffee House - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Panda Express - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Tacos Jalisco - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Overlooks Donner Lake pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Overlooks Donner Lake ?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Overlooks Donner Lake ?

Checkout is at 11:30 AM.

Where is Overlooks Donner Lake located?

Situated in Truckee, this cabin is steps away from Tahoe National Forest and Donner Lake. West End Beach and KidZone Museum are also within 3 miles (5 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 164 out of 172 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 172 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 172 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 172 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 172 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Katie N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ideal family vacation

This has been a favorite cabin of our family to stay in for 11 years total. An absolute home of a cabin, gorgeous view of the lake and lots of room.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sonya W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular cabin next to Donner Lake

The cabin was clean, well organized, and the kitchen was very well stocked - including extras like a crockpot, blender, toaster, pancake griddle and even a separate mini-fridge with condiments to share with guests. Very thoughtful and appreciated. Downstairs closet included lots of games, extra firewood, sledding and beach toys too, which we especially appreciated since we were traveling with kids. We enjoyed our stay thoroughly and look forward to booking this lovely cabin again.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Vincent E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Emily A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely, cozy cabin

We had a lovely weekend away at the Markley cabin. It is so thoughtfully set up and was very comfortable for our family and good friends with their kids. We enjoyed cooking, the snowy views from the huge windows and the easy access to the lake across the road.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Wesley M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Donner Lake House!

This house is awesome! One of the most well stocked homes we've ever rented. Very cozy and loaded with personal touches. We really enjoyed our stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Son’s 15th birthday

We booked this place for 3 days the weekend after New Year’s for my son‘s birthday to spend some time in the snow. We had such a wonderful time with a superb view of the lake and comfortable cabin! The kitchen is well stocked, and it had a very comfortable family feel.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Nikolay Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

PERFECT CABIN 100% RECOMMENDED

Our stay was magnificent! The house provided with everything literally every single thing we needed. Every appliance every utility everything was available and more. The house even came with a beautiful Christmas tree and the decors around the house was perfect! It really made it feel super cozy and at home. Everything was very clean and just perfect, literally no complaints. We recommend anyone to come and stay at this perfect home. It felt like a home away from home!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Julie J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fall Escape

Comfortable and well equipped accommodations. Great Location!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Donner Lake Beauty

We stay at many VRBO’s but this one really stood out in being more impressive than the pictures! This might sound trivial, but so many times the kitchen tools are in horrible shape or don’t exist. This place is the opposite! We made a Thanksgiving dinner and took great care of their kitchen tools so others would have the same experience. It’s really like being in someone’s home…not a rental!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place

Everything was great, great location, clean and well-equipped house, good value.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Thomas B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Another great Donner trip

Been staying here for a number of years. Couldn’t be more pleased.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lani W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Getaway

We had a great time at the beautiful cabin. Will definitely come back. Love Donner lake area.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Wendy O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Class Reunion

We all enjoyed the home as we gathered for a class reunion. The house was clean and exactly as advertised. Perfect for our trip back to Donner.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Yuliya S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful and relaxing

Great place! You do not need to bring anything, there are plenty of tools for cooking, towels, games. Cozy house, amazing view!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Craig B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great place to visit

The place was exactly as described and very comfortable. The view was excellent with easy access to swimming and a few local parks. I would highly recommend this as a place to stay in Truckee.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay at Donner

The house is amazing. Fully stocked with all our needs. The views were beautiful. Host is amazing. Access to Donner Lake could have not been easier. The deck for hanging out with family so nice. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Luana O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Truckee House

The house was a perfect getaway.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kristin d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Easy No Step Entrance Cabin

We rented this place, because there were no steps to enter the cabin, and one bedroom, bathroom and the kitchen and the couch, and the view were all on the same floor. The outside balcony was big and beautiful, nice huge umbrella to sit under. Loved looking at the stellar jays, and even saw some bats before we went in for the night. I will definitely rent this place again. My mother absolutely loved it and so did we.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Joleen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Highly recommend! Great views!

We were in the area for a family wedding at Olympic Valley and this was the best side trip to Truckee! Hosts responded quickly to questions, especially as we had a record setting snow on May 4 after 60-70 degree days May 2-3. Great views. Great, cozy home with lots to do. Explore the area, or just sit on the deck and soak in the sun and views. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

David O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible view

Beautiful property with an incredible view. Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Leslee D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Our favorite place

A well loved family cabin. Has all the needed amenities and the hosts are so kind and helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Eileen C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Clean and cozy

Loved our stay! The cabin is clean and very well maintained! Very relaxing to watch the snow fall over the lake while sitting by the warm fire. The cabin is stocked with all you need, just bring friends, family, and food!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Vivian y G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great cabin for a ski weekend!

First of all, the view of the lake at the cabin is exquisite! The owners responded promptly to questions prior to arrival. They were very nice and accommodating. Clear and easy check in and check out instructions were provided. The cabin was spotless upon arrival. The location is very convenient to ski resorts and snow parks. We had the perfect weekend staying at this cabin!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kirsten K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Darling cabin, great views

This cabin is quintessential Tahoe. We would definitely go again. Dining/kitchen/living room are open plan so great for family to hang out while cooks still part of the conversation. Beautiful view of the lake. Kitchen had every dish and utensil we could possibly need, and pantry provided plenty of storage space for our groceries. It feels cozy and loved.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely place

Beautiful cabin with a wonderful view of the lake. Tons of room and easy check in and check out process, with lots of amenities. We will definitely come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

About the host

Hosted by Norma and Bill Markley

Host profile image
We built this cabin as a young couple in 1977. It is our 'first child' and has continued to be updated throughout the years. Our two sons grew up knowing this place as an extension of home and now our grandkids do. When we first built this, we thought we would enjoy it mostly in winter but find we actually, like the summers even better.

Why they chose this property

Being skiers and outdoor enthusiasts, we fell in love with the area. Our goal was to build a cabin with a view and easy access to skiing, hiking, and water play. We were able to purchase the small piece of ground with the view of Donner Lake and direct access to the water and plowed roads in the winter. We then, 4 years later, built a cabin on it.

What makes this property unique

Location! Lake right below us where we can actual see our family on the dock. Northstar, Sugar Bowl and Squaw Valley just 15 minutes away. Historical Truckee and the major ski resorts have many scheduled events throughout the year.

Languages:

English