Donner Memorial Bridge
Old Highway 40 may not be the most direct route, but it’s an attraction in its own right that you need to experience for yourself. As Robert Frost so eloquently stated, “I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.” The reward for your detour will be the Donner Memorial Bridge (also known as Rainbow Bridge).
Most Scenic Drive In California… Maybe The Country
Donner Pass Road between Soda Springs and the town of Truckee may arguably be home to some of the best scenery and vistas of the Sierra. Coming from Soda Springs, the road slowly climbs like a roller coaster. On your right, Van Norden Meadow appears, while tall pines zip by until you reach the summit. As you roll over the crest, the view opens and one of the Sierra’s jewels – Donner Lake — appears.
Donner Memorial Bridge – The Highlight Of The Tour
As the road switchbacks steeply down, you’ll cross the highlight of the auto tour – the Rainbow Bridge. There’s a good chance you’ve seen this bridge in a car commercial with Donner Lake in the distance. It’s not a hulking brute like the Golden Gate. But it punches above its weight in architectural beauty and scenery. Due to its odd location, angle of slope, and curvature, California’s engineers had a lot to deal with to make this bridge happen.
Photo by Leo_Visions
Photo by Jeremy Stewart
Carpe Diem – A Perfect Place To Catch A Sunset
Overlooking Donner Lake a thousand feet below, Rainbow Bridge is one of the best spots to catch a sunset in California’s High Sierra. With Donner Lake in the background and the early 1900s bridge architecture in the foreground, this can be one of the coolest “golden hour” photos you can capture.
Make It A Day Of Fun
Don’t just rush to get your photo. We recommend slowing things down and taking in all that Donner Summit has to offer. Immerse yourself in Summit history by taking in the 20 Mile Outdoor Museum, located along the same stretch of road. Pick up freshly made sandwiches at the Soda Springs General Store & Deli and have a picnic at the Rainbow Bridge vista point. Go for a hike on the Judah Loop. Then finish the day with a frosty pint and juicy burger for dinner at the rustic Old 40 Bar & Grill.
Header image by Dick Simpson