TAHOE • STORIES
TAYLOR CREEK
in October W
hile summer is a great time to visit the Taylor Creek Visitor Center and trails, near South Lake Tahoe, October is special for all who are a part of the U.S. Forest Service, the center and the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. It is the month when the Kokanee salmon come
to spawn in Taylor Creek. Each year, the salmon start “running” in mid-September to October and this year is no different—they were spotted on October 1. When the Center sponsors its Kokanee Salmon Festival, this year on October 6 and 7, the salmon will be in “full-effect”.
One of the very special treats of the visitor center is the Stream Profile Chamber, which has served as a primary attraction since it was constructed in 1968. The Chamber features floor-to-ceiling windows (a full twelve-feet high) and a stream pool habitat where spawning gravel, boulders, and root wads have been added. This is also a 180-degree, curved diorama showing life above and below the water. It boasts a mural on the walls showing all the seasons experienced at Taylor Creek and there are creative, informational signs and hidden critters such as raccoons, crayfish, bats, frogs,
Stellar Jays, Bald Eagles, butterflies, and slugs! But look carefully, the center website claims they are not always easy to see! Attracting 300,000 to 400,000 youth and adult visitors annually, the Stream Profile Chamber has provided its share of educational and entertaining programs for families over the years.
out the interpretive signs and their bases; enjoy looking for wildlife and the view on the observation deck overlooking Taylor Creek. This time of year, bears sightings are possible and extreme caution is needed. Make sure to read all of the bear warning signs before leaving on the hike.
While at the complex, be sure to take the 45-minute hike on the Rainbow Trail, which begins at the Visitor Center, goes to the Stream Profile Chamber and then winds through the meadow and marsh by Taylor Creek. Following the walk, check
The Visitor Center is located 3 miles north of South Lake Tahoe, on the lake side of Highway 89. The Taylor Creek Visitor Center offers a wide variety of maps, brochures, t-shirts, souvenirs and other items available for purchase. Visitors may obtain wilderness and campfire permits at the center and enjoy and participate in interpretive programs. The visitor center is also the hub where three more self-guided trails start. During the month of October, the Visitor Center will be open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Restrooms are available at the Visitor Center during hours of operation and the facility is wheelchair accessible.
For more information, log on to www.fs.usda.gov/attmain/ ltbmu/specialplaces or call (530) 543-2674.