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Overlooks Donner Lake

Cabin with kitchen, steps from 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

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Donner Lake
  • Place, Sugar Bowl Resort
  • Place, Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area
  • Airport, Reno, NV (RNO-Reno-Tahoe Intl.)

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.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
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..

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
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. Northstar California Resort and Palisades Tahoe 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. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Tahoe Donner Tennis Center or North Tahoe Regional Park. Take in the nearby slopes with skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as sledging.
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Map
Truckee, CA

What's nearby

  • Donner Lake - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • West End Beach - 2 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Boreal Mountain Resort - 5 min drive - 11.1 km
  • Donner Memorial State Park - 10 min drive - 7.9 km
  • Tahoe Donner Downhill Ski Area - 13 min drive - 11.1 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Tahoe Donner - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Coffeebar Bakery - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Overlooks Donner Lake pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Overlooks Donner Lake ?

On-site parking is available at the 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. 176 out of 184 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 8 out of 184 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 184 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 184 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 184 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

Amanda H.

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

Easter Weekend

Donner Lake is my son's favorite place to be
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Camille P.

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

Donner Overlook

This cabin is beautiful! Many cute decorative touches keeping the mountain cabin vibe. The kitchen had every utensil, bowl, pot and pan you could want. The dining table was large and the furniture was all very comfortable. The parking right at the door was a life saver for some of us that aren't as mobile as we used to be. Would definitely stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 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

Brian R.

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

Relaxing and beautiful

Gorgeous views of dinner lake. Comfortable place to stay
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 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

Leslee D.

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

Wonderful stay

The home is warm and well cared for. The owners are incredibly helpful and reachable if you need them. We hope to come back soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

susan g.

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

Great family cabin

The cabin is perfect for multi aged family! Plenty of room, everything you’d need (and more) in the kitchen. Well kept up, clean, easy in every way, strong WiFi, plenty of tv channels. Our family will stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sherry F.

Wonderful view. Well kept property.

We loved the house. Owners provided everything. Loved reading the book on the building of the house. The view was amazing.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kathy P.

Lovely place

What a perfect cabin in a perfect spot! The view was wonderful and we enjoyed lounging in the comfortable chairs provided on the deck. The house was clean and comfortable, and very much felt like a home rather than a rental. Owners were wonderful to work with. We can't wait to come back - next time with the kids!

10/10 Excellent

Lorine B.

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

Great Home away from home!

The Markley cabin is a great place to stay with a beautiful view of the lake. We had everything we needed in the kitchen for breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails! The place is immaculate and the Forest theme fun! Seven adults and one teen had plenty of room to relax and enjoy kayaking, biking and game night.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Brynn H.

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

Girls trip

We had a moms getaway weekend. It was such a beautiful location and so peaceful. Just what we needed. Thank you for sharing your wonderful cabin with us!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

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

Christine A.

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

Gorgeous views

Cute cottage. Has everything you need. We used a bedroom for a closet due to small rooms and closets. But everything was perfect for just my husband and I.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lisa D.

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

Relaxing stay in a beautiful home with a gorgeous view.

Property was well laid out with an awesome view of the lake. We particularly liked that you could enjoy everything you needed on the main floor without having to traverse a single stair. This made it possible for my 88-year-old mother to join us. She really enjoyed it. The house is so well appointed and obviously loved. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with us.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lyn D.

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

Wonderful cabin in Truckee

Everything was perfect in this house, warm, comfortable and well appointed. Great for a family of 6, plenty of room. Views from the deck are beautiful. We worried about access up the steep lane in the winter, but the rental car coped admirably! The house was decorated for Christmas... a bonus. Communication with owners was excellent and a need to change dates was accommodated without any problem. Vrbo easy to deal with. Would recommend this house to others.
Stayed 9 nights in Dec 2022

8/10 Good

kenneth j.

Very good value

Clean (a few cobwebs) and comfortable. Lots of extra implements, dishes and spices. Excellent grill. Great location. The deck is lovely, right across the street from the lake. Beds are comfortable (though you have put on your own sheets, etc.). We didn't use the fireplace but wood was provided. The showers were very good. One bedroom is really a loft, open to the main living area. Sound insulation in the others is not great either, but we would definitely rent the place again.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

Katie P.

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

Perfect option for family

We were able to secure the rental early last month for the days we needed. The process was seem less and the accommodations were cozy and checked off all the boxes. We had two families stay and there was enough room for everyone comfortably without feeling on top of each other. We were close enough to get a few necessities but far enough to not feel like we were in too much of a crowd. The view is incredible and perfect sipping spots for morning coffee. Our preteens love the loft and the feeling of being independent and our 17 year old had enough space to himself to veg out as necessary. We loved the mountain bikes, but make sure to bring your own water toys as they’re not available. We were there the warmest weekend of the spring season, so still a TON of snow, but also we could have paddle boarded. Easy walks, close to the summit, breathtaking views. I recommend setting the alarm and catching the sunrise. You can drive 7 min. Up to the summit and catch the view over the lake. We loved it wants will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Unbelievable location, super cozy house!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We've been staying at this home for a number of years every summer. The cabin is great with a terrific view of the lake. Always clean and well maintained, and the owners are a pleasure to work with. Highly recommend.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen C.

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

10/10 Excellent

Jamie n.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cabin decor is very detailed and the view of Donner Lake is spectacular.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yuliya S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome! Beautiful place. Second time visiting this wonderful place and cozy property. Spending time on a pier across from the house.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paula H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful unobstructed views of the Lake, great location, fully equipped with everything you would need, cute decor, very clean, and owners responded immediately to messages. It’s close to the main road so a bit noisy on the beautiful deck. But that’s to be expected during the summer.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lauren R.

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

Fantastic home!

Boy, it really makes sense why this house is reviewed so well! The house was PERFECT! Clean as could be, soft beds and a wonderful space. Walk across the street to the lake and docs, eat outside on the perfect patio or enjoy the couch by big big windows. Everyone was really happy with the house, from 2 years to 89 years old! We would stay again and again!
View from the balcony!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

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
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