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Taylor Creek Visitor Center
The Taylor Creek Visitor Center, operated in partnership with the Great Basin Institute, is located on the South Shore of beautiful Lake Tahoe approximately three miles northwest of the City of South Lake Tahoe. The visitor center serves as a hub where four fascinating self-guided trails begin. The visitor center is typically open from June through October. Though the buildings are closed during the winter, the grounds remain open year-round and the site serves as a popular cross-country skiing and snowshoeing destination. Campfires (wood, charcoal or any other solid fuels) are not permitted. Portable stoves are allowed with a valid permit.
The Great Basin Institute is an interdisciplinary field studies organization that promotes environmental research, education, and conservation throughout the West. Founded in 1998 at the University of Nevada, the Institute’s mission is to advance applied research and ecological literacy through community engagement and agency partnerships to support national parks, forests, open spaces and public lands. The Great Basin Institute became the interpretive association for Taylor Creek Visitor Center in 2018.
If you're interested in volunteering at the visitor center this summer, contact our Interpretive Services & Conservation Education Program Manager, Lannette Rangel.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Seasonal Parking; No restrooms or Trash Removal in Winter; Campfires (wood, charcoal or other solid fuels not permitted; No Camping or Overnighting |
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| Area Amenities: |
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| Permit Info: | Desolation Wilderness permits can be reserved online. |
| Open Season: | May/June - October |
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Busiest Season: | June-October |
| Restrictions: | Leashed pets are permitted at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center and on the trails. Pet owners are expected to clean up after their pets, doggie bags are available. Please note, pets are not permitted in or near the Taylor Creek Marsh and are not allowed inside the Stream Profile Chamber. |
| Closest Towns: | South Lake Tahoe, California. |
| Restroom: | Flush |
| Operated By: | USDA Forest Service and Great Basin Institute |
General Information
Accessibility:All facilities at the Taylor Creek Visitor Center are wheelchair accessible, including the Rainbow Trail, Stream Profile Chamber, Lake of the Sky Amphitheater and restrooms. In addition, audiotape tours of the area are available at no charge at the visitor center.
Directions:
The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is located approximately three miles northwest of the City of South Lake Tahoe on the lake side of Highway 89. The visitor center entrance is just past the entrance to the Tallac Historic Site and Fallen Leaf Lake Road.
Parking:
The parking lot at Taylor Creek Visitor Center can accommodate approximately 100 vehicles and includes pull-through bus and RV parking.
Activities
Sand Play
Mountain Biking
Day Hiking
Easy day hiking near the shore of Lake Tahoe.
Viewing Wildlife
Viewing Plants
Viewing Scenery
Interpretive Areas
Visitor Centers
The Taylor Creek Visitor Center is located on the south shore of beautiful Lake Tahoe.
| Status: | Open |
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| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
Picnicking
Picnicking| Difficulty Level: | Easy |
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