At the top Old Highway 40 at the west end of Donner Lake are the small, secluded communities of Donner Summit – Serene Lakes, Kingvale, Norden, Cisco Grove, Soda Springs, and Pla Vada. With an historic, tight-knit atmosphere reminiscent of the early days of Sierra skiing, these areas enjoy more snow than any other and are just minutes from Sugar Bowl, Boreal, and Royal Gorge ski resorts. All are easily accessed from I-80, and the conveniences of Truckee are an easy drive into town. In the summer, the area blooms in high Sierra splendor, with wildflowers, babbling creeks, and crisp bright skies. Many of the homes have an “Old Tahoe” cabin feel, although Serene Lakes offers a range of newer luxury homes, including million dollar lakefront estates.