Stunning Summer Donner Lake Elopement || Nicole & Jason

This summer I captured the most stunning summer Donner Lake elopement, and I can’t wait to share this story with you!! Keep reading to learn more about why Donner Lake is the best place to elope, and read Nicole and Jason’s elopement story!

Why a Summer Elopement at Donner Lake Is Pure Magic

If you’re dreaming of eloping or having a small wedding surrounded by the mountains and pine trees, Donner Lake might just be your perfect match. Tucked just outside of Truckee and Lake Tahoe, this hidden gem offers everything you need for a romantic, laid-back, and unforgettable summer elopement. From crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain views to warm weather and endless adventure, here’s why summer at Donner Lake is pure magic for saying “I do.”

Scenery & Views

First off, let’s talk about the scenery. Donner Lake is one of those places that truly looks like a postcard come to life. The still, blue waters reflect the surrounding pines and peaks in a way that makes every photo look like a freaking DREAM. At golden hour, the lake glows with warm light, giving your elopement photos a cinematic feel—no filters or editing tricks needed. Don’t believe me? Look at these photos haha they’re so beautiful. Even during the middle of the day, the blues of the water and soft greens of the pine trees are busting with color. You can’t beat this location and will have the most beautiful scenery (and photos) anytime of day. Whether you’re standing on a granite boulder at the edge of the water or walking hand-in-hand through the trees, it’s hard to find a more naturally beautiful setting.

Very Little Tourists, Lots of Room to Soak it all in

But it’s not just about the views—it’s also about the intimacy. Eloping gives you full permission to focus on what matters most: you and your partner. At Donner Lake, you won’t be juggling a huge guest list or running through a tight schedule. You can slow down, breathe it all in, and truly enjoy the moment. Whether you want to exchange vows on a quiet beach, tuck into a cozy picnic, or hike to a private overlook, Donner Lake gives you the freedom to make the day entirely your own. Bring some handwritten vows, some of your closest humans (if you want to!), maybe your doggo and some champagne and you’re set. What more do you need?

Summer in Donner

Summer also brings some of the best weather you could ask for. From June through August, Donner Lake enjoys warm, sunny days and cool, crisp evenings—ideal for outdoor ceremonies and lakeside dinners. You get long hours of daylight, clear skies, and comfortable temps in the 70s and 80s. And with the sun setting late in the evening, you’ll have plenty of time to relax into your day without feeling rushed.

Tons of Space to Adventure

One of the biggest perks of a Donner Lake elopement is the adventure factor. Before or after your ceremony, you can kayak across the water, paddleboard near the shore, or take a dip if you’re feeling bold. Or what most of my couples love doing, is just hitting multiple spots in/around the lake! Let’s hike out to an overlook, take in the views, stop at the beach and sip some beers on a dock over the water. If you’re up for a bit of exploring, nearby trails in the Tahoe National Forest lead to beautiful overlooks and hidden nooks perfect for photos or quiet moments together. Whether you want to start your wedding day with a sunrise hike or end it with a sunset stroll, there are endless ways to blend your love for the outdoors with your celebration.

Despite feeling like a secluded retreat, Donner Lake is incredibly accessible. It’s just minutes off I-80 and close to charming downtown Truckee, so your travel logistics stay simple and stress-free. There are cozy cabins, lakeside Airbnbs, and rustic lodges nearby for you and any guests you invite along. And if you’re craving good food, the local restaurants and food trucks offer everything from elevated farm-to-table meals to low-key, post-wedding bites with a view. If you want to head to Tahoe during your stay, checkout my Top Lake Tahoe Elopement Reception Venues that also include some restaurants you can stop at.

Planning your Summer Elopement

If you’re planning a summer Donner Lake elopement, a few things will help your day go off without a hitch. Be sure to reserve your ceremony spot and accommodations early—especially on weekends, since this area is popular in the warmer months. Check with local officials about any necessary permits, especially if you’re planning to set up decor, bring a photographer (hi that’s me!), or play music! One thing I’m an expert in is helping my couples with all of these details. Need a permit? I’ll secure it for you. Looking for a bouquet? I’ll send the best florists your way. Need Airbnb Recs? I’ve got the top spots.

At the end of the day, what makes a Donner Lake elopement so magical is the open & accessible locations, and sharing it with your loved ones! You can keep it simple or go all out, include adventure or keep it super relaxed, or a combination of both! You can wear hiking boots with your wedding dress or say your vows barefoot in the sand. There are no rules—just the two of you, a stunning lake, and the best weekend of your lives.

So if you’re looking for a stunning location near Lake Tahoe to elope this summer, Donner Lake is calling. And trust me—once you’re there, you won’t want to leave.

Nicole & Jason’s Elopement

Nicole and Jason started their elopement day getting ready with all of their loved ones in a rental near the Ritz Carlton. I listed where they booked their house rental in the blog post: The Top Lake Tahoe Elopement Reception Venues. Since there was tons of space for them to get ready, Nicole and Jason stayed on separate floors so they didn’t see each other until their first look! They laughed and danced and soaked up the slow moments of the morning with their family and closest friends.

I hung up Nicole’s dress in the bathroom which had the most BEAUTIFUL light pouring in through the windows. It was a DREAM. Her bouquet was filled with white roses and greenery and was so timeless and stunning.

After they got ready, they shared a first look in the forest behind the house rental, and it was one for the books. Their first look was so special, emotional and one I’ll truly never forget. Jason was so emotional seeing Nicole for the first time, and it was so beautiful to witness. They shared personal vows as their loves ones watched from the deck, with tears running down their faces.

Donner Lake Elopement Ceremony

This couple and their loved ones wanted to elope somewhere private with views for days, and that’s exactly what they did. I shared one of my favorite private gem locations with them in Donner Lake, and it was a bit of a hike from the main road, but even grandma and grandpa made it up without any issues. They hired a guitarist to play live music during their ceremony, and the bride’s brother even officiated their wedding ceremony! They said yes overlooking Donner Lake from below without another soul in sight.

Airbnb Reception & Dinner

After their ceremony, family photos and exploring around the lake to capture newlywed photos, we headed back to their Airbnb rental for dinner and a relaxing reception with their 12 favorite humans. They also had a baby sitter stayed back at the house for the ceremony to watch the kiddos, and they all came out to join everyone!

Nicole and Jason hired a private chef to come cook for them, and they were greeted with drinks & appetizers, and a candle-lit steak dinner as the sun went down. They shared the most heartfelt speeches that left everyone in tears, loving and embracing each other, just so happy to celebrate the couple and these families joining. They spent the evening dancing and sharing stories til after sundown — it was truly the best day!!

VENDORS

Makeup by @makeupmamaaa

Photography by Bridgette Wuest Photography

Donner Lake Elopement Photographer

WANT TO BOOK YOUR ELOPEMENT WITH ME?

Head to my booking page and fill out my contact form!! I can’t wait to hear from you guys and capture your incredible wedding day!

DID YOU LOVE THIS POST AND WANT TO SEE MORE LIKE IT? CHECKOUT THE FOLLOWING POSTS:

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