Set against the majestic backdrop of Donner Lake in Truckee at an elevation of about 6,000 feet, Donner Memorial State Park memorializes the ill-fated Donner Party and the California emigrants who traveled west during the mid-1800s, at the Pioneer Monument, completed in 1918. But along with this somber historical landmark, the park offers outdoor enthusiasts a wealth of activities to enjoy, including camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, water-skiing, and 8 miles of hiking and over-the-snow trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Tip: The park’s visitor center provides informative exhibits on the Donner Party, the local Washoe tribe and the Chinese construction of the railroad. parks.ca.gov