The historic Rainbow Lodge dates back to the late 1800s. This remote and beautiful river side lodge has a rich history that few people know. Tucked along the Yuba River near Donner Summitt, surrounded by its original stone walls, Rainbow Lodge is a hidden Sierra Nevada treasure.

The original section of the lodge was built in the last 1800s. Originally used as a stage stop, extensions were made in the 1920s by Mr. Herschel Jones. You can see for yourself the progress of the lodge by looking at the pine logs in the ceilings. The two different shapes of the logs show where the extension was made. Inside the bar, you'll also notice the bricked-in window that used to be the exterior of the lodge.

After the extension, the lodge became a popular stop for local residents who enjoyed a little gambling. As the years went on, Rainbow Lodge went from a popular gambling joint to a famous fishing stop. Many guests would travel up to the valley to catch Rainbow trout along the Yuba River. They would bring in their catch of the day and have the Rainbow chef cook it to perfection or smoke it so they could take it home. In the winter, you could rent gear and ski right behind the lodge. This is still a favorite activity for many guests.

The Rainbow Lodge also has a restaurant and lounge which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Today, the Rainbow Lodge retains its history very well. The stone walls, the pine log ceilings, and even some "spirited" guests that may still wander the halls, makes this historic lodge unlike any other in the Sierra Nevada. Not far from Truckee, it is the perfect place to retreat to for a quieter and slower pace. You won't find a TV in your room or Wi-Fi, but you'll barely notice.

Another very unique characteristic of this grand lodge is the water. Rainbow sits near a pure Artesian spring located deep in the granite surrounding the lodge. This water fills every glass and bath tub in the lodge. The water is pulled from deep in the surrounding granite and provides a perfect refreshment.

Rainbow Lodge has 31 guest rooms. Each room is a little different and has its very own personality and character. Keep in mind there is no television, phone on WiFi access in any rooms or the lodge so bring your books, or appetite for exploration or relaxation.

Rainbow Lodge offers a luscious menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner entrees, with a cozy lodge - style fireplace and bar. Guests enjoy authentic dishes served expertly by the attentive Rainbow lodge staff. Seasonally, you can enjoy patio dining, overlooking the beautiful Yuba River.

Seasons Open: All Year

Rainbow Lodge offers easy access to hundreds of miles of outdoor terrain including hiking along the Loch Leven trail and biking, excellent fishing along the South Yuba River just outside Rainbow Lodge, and short drives to Truckee and Lake Tahoe. Winter enthusiasts enjoy the easy access and short drives to ski. Downhill skiing is available at Sugar Bowl Ski Resort which is only 15 minutes away, and it's an easy 10 minute drive to access to the Royal Gorge cross country ski trails.

For history buffs you can trake a drive along the Old Highway 40 Historical Route which travels from Cisco Grove to historic downtown Truckee.

Rate Range: Please check http://therainbowlodge.com for room rates

Getting to the historic Rainbow Lodge at Donner Summit is very easy along all-weather Interstate 80.

From San Francisco Bay area- take 80E to Rainbow Road (exit 168). Turn right and follow road. Rainbow Lodge will be on your left. From Truckee and Reno- take 80W to Rainbow Road (exit 168). Turn left and follow road. Rainbow Lodge will be on your left.