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Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum
Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum
Truckee
view website12593 Donner Pass Rd
Truckee, CA 96161
530-582-7894
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
History Museum
Park
Ethnic Museum
Donner Memorial State Park and Emigrant Trail Museum Description
Many school-aged children have heard the horror story of the ill-fated Donner Party, the group of some 90 California-bound pioneers who set off from Illinois and became trapped by a snowstorm in the unforgiving Sierras. Only half of the party made it through the winter, and some of the survivors resorted to cannibalism (though some historians now say that claims of cannibalism may have been exaggerated). At the Emigrant Trail Museum within the Donner Memorial State Park, details about the debacle are the main event, but you can also learn about local Native Americans and the laborers who built the transcontinental railroad. The park also features 2.5 miles of trails.
Kid Tips
Toddlers & Pre-K: The nature trails will provide a nice break from the museum, which may bore this age group.
School-Age Kids: Prepare yourself to answer lots of questions about cannibalism!
Pre-Teens & Teens: They'll be very intrigued by the misadventures of the Donner Party.
Planning Notes
- Wear comfortable shoes. Take advantage of the hikes at the park; trail guides are available at the museum, and staff-led hikes, ranging from 1-2 hours, start in late June.
- Learn more. For more information about the travails of the Donner Party, go here.
Just the Facts
Hours: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., daily, year-round (excluding major holidays)
Fees: Under $10
Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours
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