About Truckee, California

Truckee is an incorporated town in Nevada County, California with a population of 16,180 as of the 2010 census. It is a community with deep roots in the ways of the Old West with the soul of an active, adventure-driven modern mountain town. Transportation has long been a part of the town’s identity—the Emigrant Trail, the railroad, and now many forms of transportation play a role in everyday activities—mountain bikes, kayaks and rafts, skis—downhill and Nordic. Dirt and paved trail networks are everywhere in the area, whitewater rafting opportunities are abundant, and ample wilderness is right outdoors. The town’s name was changed from Coburn Station to Truckee to commemorate a Piaute chief who had guided and welcomed some of the first Europeans who came across the Sierra Nevada into the area. The story is that the chief rode toward them while yelling “Trokay!” which means, “Everything is alright!” in Piaute.

The Truckee area boasts access to the five world class ski resorts of Northstar California, Sugar Bowl, Donner Ski Ranch, Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, and Boreal Mountain. The Truckee Tahoe area is also home to some of the premier whitewater rafting accesses in North America. Furthermore, it offers a plethora of jaw-dropping options for both rolling on the asphalt and on the dirt. It can also be said with 100% confidence that the Truckee/Tahoe area is pure nirvana for those looking to explore pristine natural terrain on foot. The town of Truckee has a vibrant downtown area with great restaurants, shops, and its fair share of characters. It’s a four-season destination with world-class adventure and recreation during every season. In other words, Truckee’s got a small town vibe with big town opportunities.