Taylor Creek Visitor Center offers a wealth of family-friendly information and attractions. Study the fish and other inhabitants of the stream in the center’s primary attraction, the Stream Profile Chamber. Amble along interpretive nature trails. Take part in ranger-led programs and a variety of summertime evening activities.
The Stream Profile Chamber located along Rainbow Trail offers a fascinating underwater look at the ecology of a diverted section of the stream. View kokanee salmon in their natural habitat through the underground floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Look for trout, crayfish, frogs, insects and ducks, all of whom call the stream home. The chamber provides a captivating insight into the stream’s natural environment. Learn how the stream changes through the four seasons at the colorful mural.
Take a relaxed walk along one of the four self-guided interpretive trails and try to spot colorful butterflies, dragonflies and birds fluttering in the air. Rainbow Trail, Lake of the Sky Trail, Forest Tree Trail and Smokey's Trail weave through different habitats. Learn about the ecology of the marshes, the stream, the forest and the high desert as you wander, as well as the cultural history of the area. Follow a fifth trail to the nearby Tallac Historic Site, which includes the Baldwin Estate, the Pope Estate and Valhalla historic houses.
Pick up maps of the region, books about local nature, wilderness permits and national recreation passes from the visitor center. Highly experienced rangers provide detailed information about the area. They also lead daily walks along the trails. The on-site Lake of the Sky Amphitheater offers a summertime schedule of outdoor evening programs and events.
The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is about a 5-mile (8-kilometer) drive west of South Lake Tahoe. Consider taking a bicycle or the Emerald Bay Trolley to the center, which is open from Memorial Day through October from morning until afternoon. Access to the center and Stream Profile Chamber is free. Visit during October to participate in the annual Kokanee Salmon Festival, a fun family event celebrating the fall spawning run of the local kokanee salmon in Taylor Creek.
