OVER THE BOW: DONNER LAKE

We were in the shadow of the mountains; the light was cool and quiet, and no wind was stirring. The aspen trunks were slightly greenish, and the leaves were a vibrant yellow --- Ansel Adams

Sitting at just under 6,000 feet in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Donner Lake offers an array of breathtaking panoramic views of craggy peaks, charming chalets, and the lake's clear blue water. Located 11 miles Northwest of its big sister Lake Tahoe near Truckee, California, it is the area's history that captivates us. The harrowing tale of the Donner Party being stranded there in the winter of 1846-1847 is one of the greatest tragedies in the history of westward migration. While the Chinese laborers who toiled to build the transcontinental railroad over the mountains with picks and shovels can only be considered a triumph.  

 

It's Autumn, and the tourists of summertime have headed back home. While others wait for the snow to come so that they can return to the slopes. The lake was quiet and still felt like summer. A few swimmers were even venturing into its waters, and I led a kayaking group out onto it. California can't compete with whole forests of trees changing colors like in New England. The only hint that it was fall was a few stands of stunning, brightly colored aspens reflecting off the lake. 

Over the Bow is a feature from Outside Adventure to the Max, telling the story behind the image. If you have a great picture with a great story, submit it to us at nickayak@gmail.com

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