Serene Lakes & The Summit
Known as “The Summit”, this community is centered around Serene Lakes; a very pristine and private region that is known for its historic past, classic cabins, mountain escapes, and lakeside retreats that have been owned by generations gone by. Wherever you may roam, one gets a feeling of what life was like when the Sierra was first being discovered. Today its nostalgic charm and well-preserved natural presence continue to reflect the enchantment that only the Serene Lakes region can own.
Perhaps the locals describe it best: Serene Lakes and the Summit area is for “crowds who don’t like crowds.”
Although the area seems like one is tucked away where time stands still, its ideal location is minutes from Soda Springs and a quick trip to Truckee. Most convenient is its connection to I-80 which is perfect for those who seek a second home within a reasonable drive to Reno (45 miles), Sacramento (100 miles) and the greater Bay Area (approx. 200 miles).
The Serene Lakes region includes the Castle Peak and Rainbow Bridge areas of Donner Summit all of which provide a retreat for residents with beauty matched equally by its surroundings. The Serene Lakes community wraps around two lakes: Lake Serena and Lake Dulzura. Historians tell us that both were named by Mark Twain who spent considerable time throughout the High Sierra region – and are said to have been discovered during the building of the Transcontinental Railroad.
The region is most popular in the winter months due to its close location to Royal Gorge Cross-Country Resort– North America’s largest cross-country area. It’s also close to Sugar Bowl, Donner Ski Ranch and Boreal – all of which are just a short drive away.
Although it is indeed popular in the winter months, summer, fall, and spring hold their own charm for those who seek the opportunity to escape the pace of every-day life. Another wonderful bonus is the Home Owner Association which includes private access to Lake Dulzura Beach.
Most of the properties are second homes for those who enjoy the great outdoors skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing in the winter and hiking, climbing, boating, and mountain biking through the balance of the year; all of which can be accessed within a short step, hike, or scenic drive from the quaint homes and cabins that are tucked in and around this paradise setting.
In addition to its signature lakes, this forested community is wrapped with miles of open land, meadows, crystal-clear running streams, and hidden mountain lakes.
The Serene Lakes and the Donner Summit region has seen considerable growth in the last 20 years, although the community is relatively small. With increased demand and shorter supply, property values have remained as strong as its inimitable persona!
