DMT: Path of the Chinese Railroad Worker

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 7:30 AM - Wednesday, June 18, 2025 6:30 PM

Auburn to Donner Summit

Wednesday, June 18, 2025 | 7:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Cost: $150

In the mountains just above Donner Lake, there is a series of now-abandoned tunnels that, for well over a century, enabled the transcontinental railroad to cross the imposing Sierra Nevada. The mountains are steep and made of solid granite. The riveting story of the building of the railroad and tunnels by a mostly Chinese labor force comes alive through the full-trip narration of Historian Bill George as we travel by coach via I-80 through Auburn to the Donner Summit area near Truckee. On this adventurous journey we have opportunities to stop to view features of the railroad at key locations, we walk through tunnels, and we view “China Wall” up close. On our return trip our only stop is the State Railroad Museum in Sacramento, which has a large exhibit on the building of the transcontinental railroad. Our historian’s every word on the trip can be captured through the use of the Whisper audio device system that we provide. Meals are on your own; we recommend brown bagging it and/or purchasing food at one of our stops. At the most distant part of our bus tour one finds the Old 40 Bar and Grill at Donner Ski Ranch Resort that has all essential amenities. Late-breaking news! On December 16, 2024, Summit Camp, the construction camp close to where the tunnels and retaining walls were blasted, was designated one of 19 new National Historic Landmarks by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior! You won’t want to miss out on this adventure!

Please read the paragraphs on the second page of the “additional information” that describe the activity levels and exploration recommendations. Elevation is also a consideration, as we travel to the 7,000 foot level.

To initiate the registration process, click the ‘Start Here’ button below to complete an electronic form. The deadline to register or cancel is May 7, 2025.


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