Celebrate the annual fall migration of the Kokanee salmon during the Fall Fish Fest at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center. It’s a lovely stroll bordering a vast meadow, from the parking area to the stream. Both educational and awe inspiring, with many opportunities for great photos. If you miss the actual festival, please note that the fish do continue to spawn during the week – not just on the denoted festival days. 
What to Expect
From 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday, visitors can learn about the natural wonders of Taylor Creek from Forest Service biologists, as they stroll along the accessible, ½ mile loop Rainbow Trail. This peaceful walk meanders through forests, meadows and marsh lands to the creek where the Kokanee salmon spawn within a few feet of your own feet. A close-up view of this natural event is available in the underground Stream Profile Chamber located along the Rainbow Trail path.
Activities
The weekend events feature children’s activities, and educational and streamside programs. Not to be missed is the return of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s giant inflatable fish – the fish’s tail serves as the gateway to fun activity stations for kids.
Location
The Fall Fish Fest is held at the U.S. Forest Service Visitor Center at Taylor Creek. The Visitor Center is is located 3 miles north of the “Y” in South Lake Tahoe. Take Highway 89 north past the Tallac Historic Site. Additional information about viewing the Kokanee salmon can also be obtained from the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. Please contact us for more information.
With the popularity of the Fall Fish Festival at the Visitor Center and the Octoberfest at Historic Camp Richardson Resort the parking lot at the Visitor Center fills quickly. Some free parking is available at Camp Richardson where visitors can walk back and forth between the Fall Fish Fest and Octoberfest. Visitors are encouraged to ride a bike along the bike path between Camp Richardson and the Visitor Center or take public transportation from South Lake Tahoe.
