Fall Fish Fest canceled due to low water in Taylor Creek, but area still open to public

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - One of the more popular things to do in South Lake Tahoe as the seasons change is to attend the Fall Fish Fest at Taylor Creek, but that won't be the case in 2021.

Due to the ongoing drought conditions and low water levels at Fallen Leaf Lake, the flow into Taylor Creek is running low. The U.S. Forest Service expects the Kokanee salmon will not spawn in the creek due to the low levels. In the past when this happens, the Kokanee have moved on to other creeks to swim up and spawn in, then return to Taylor Creek if conditions allow the following year.

Even though the festival is canceled, the Taylor Creek area is open to the public. The completion of the new boardwalk on the Rainbow Trail should be completed by the end of October. Until then there is a barricade at the work area with detour signs for those walking to use. The Stream Profile is closed due to vandalism.

The Taylor Creek Visitor Center will provide outdoor visitor information on Saturdays and Sundays through October 17.

As always, visitors to the Taylor Creek area are reminded to be respectful of wildlife, always maintain a safe distance and give any animals in the area their privacy. Stay on the trail and follow Leave No Trace ethics in addition to safe public health practices.

The creek area over the highway toward Fallen Leaf Lake is open at this time. This area has closed in the past due to heavy bear activity, but with fewer salmon they won't be expected.