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<b>Maggie</b> aka <i>"The Turninator"</i>
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Maggie aka "The Turninator"

Trains & Donner Summit History

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Driving by History

When we’re cruising up Old 40 from Donner Lake to Sugar Bowl, sometimes we forget to pay attention to all the history we’re driving past. You’ve probably noticed the horizontal stripe of snowsheds set into the landscape BUT do you know the story behind these train tunnels?

Completing the Transcontinental Railroad

More than 150 years ago, the train tunnels were constructed by thousands of Chinese laborers. The challenging puzzle piece completed a crucial section of the Transcontinental Railroad. This feat of engineering involved drilling through miles of solid granite and building huge walls from the excavated rock. Most of this dangerous work was completed by hand.

Resilient Pioneers

While the pioneers of the infamous Donner Party are often remembered in Tahoe’s history, far fewer realize these railroad tunnels were engineered by Chinese immigrants who endured two big Sierra winters— even bigger than the ‘16-17 season. Not only did the tunnel builders avoid the same fate as the Donner Party, they succeeded in producing one of our nation’s most impressive infrastructure achievements.

Black and white photo of an old train crossing a bridge.

Want more information about the train tunnels?

Check out this article (with gorgeous photos) by SF Gate.

Read more about Donner Summit history from the The Donner Summit Historical Society.

1940's train traveling through the Sierra

P.S. Since you’re into trains…

We’ve got another little known train fact for you. There used to be a ski train that skiers could take directly to Sugar Bowl. How cool is that?

Two women carrying skis exiting a train.

Snowball Specials

This particular photograph was used in the 1930’s as an advertisement for the Southern Pacific railroad’s “Snowball Specials” which ran from the Bay Area all the way to Truckee. The trains would depart from Oakland at midnight and were equipped with all the comforts a skier might need. Of course, there was a well-stocked bar car so travelers could party through the night. There was even a “Ski Hut” that sold socks and mittens and offered professional rental equipment fittings. Arriving at Sugar Bowl early the next morning, skier could enjoy the mountain for the day, returning exhausted on the train that evening. Just sayin’… who else wants to bring back the ski train!?

Two skiers looking at the view from Sugar Bowl
Ski & Ride Articles from "The Drift"
Want to check out our archive of ski & ride articles? We’ve covered everything from powder day highlights to tips for skiing with kids. Whether you want to learn about Sugar Bowl history, get some pointers for a first timer, or learn more about cross country skiing at Royal Gorge, "The Drift" is your hub for all things skiing & riding. We publish a few new articles every week, so be sure to check back often.
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