Sonar was able to confirm an ancient shoreline which also leads scientists to subscribe to this megadrought theory as they believe that the lake fell 130 to 200 feet during this drought. The drought at Fallen Leaf Lake is believed to have taken place between the 9 th and 12 th centuries and to have lasted up to 200 years. A megadrought is defined as a drought lasting at least two decades or longer. Researchers have long believed that the Sierra Nevada region has gone through megadroughts in the past. He was also able to rule out that an earthquake cracked the lake’s floor. Kent used side scan sonar technology to map the Fallen Leaf Lake underwater forest and also discovered that the lake had undergone significant changes in the past especially with the water levels. I was just waiting for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer to come flying in.” He would further describe the scene as follows: Kent went beneath the water in a two person submersible and became the first documented person to see what he called a “ ghost forest.” Kleppe’s efforts spawned even more scientific explorations to study these remarkable trees like the one in 2009 by Graham Kent the director of the Nevada Seismological Laboratory. Professor Kleppe sent down a camera on a ROV (Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle) and began taking pictures of an incredible underwater forest. In the late 90s, an experienced scuba diver and a professor first “discovered” these underwater trees and began documenting their locations. There are two theories as to how these trees ended up standing perfectly upright underwater as if they magically grew from the lake’s bottom: a megadrought or a landslide. Screen capture of the video from Undersea Voyager Project How did an Underwater Forest Grow in Fallen Leaf Lake? The cold, potable water has become a perfect mechanism for preserving early 19 th century items and ancient trees found in the depths below. Instead, we have a picturesque alpine lake that’s 152 feet higher in elevation than Lake Tahoe, nearly three miles long, and nearly 415 feet deep at its deepest point. If the glaciers didn’t stop, they would’ve continued into Lake Tahoe and formed another bay just like Emerald Bay, which is roughly three miles northwest of Fallen Leaf Lake. A terminal moraine, which marks the end of the glaciers’ movements, is noticeable on the north end of the lake. Fallen Leaf Lakeįallen Leaf Lake was formed out of two glaciers that are believed to have traveled north and stopped roughly one mile south of Lake Tahoe. In addition to the intriguing examination of how the lake got its name, is an even greater mystery that sets this alpine body of water apart from any other lake in the state – the underwater forest of Fallen Leaf Lake. I’m sure for some of you, the thought of a forest at this particular location doesn’t sound all too interesting.īut, what if I told you that this forest is underwater? I bet that’s grabbed your attention. If the inspectors find any water on your equipment, you may be denied entry to the lake for that day.At 6,300 feet in elevation, and located at the base of Desolation Wilderness, sits a forest unlike any other. To keep invasive mussels out of the water, a boat inspection is required! BE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN THERE IS NO WATER ANYWHERE ON/IN YOUR BOAT, PADDLES, LIFE JACKETS, HATCH COVERS, ETC. Tahoe Boat self-inspection course is free and they send you stickers for your boat(2). Your boat must display an inspection sticker IMPORTANT TIME SAVER IF YOU BRING A NON-MOTORIZED BOAT - You can self-inspect your boats by taking a 15 minute course and quiz at home. This campground provides access to nearby Trailheads and easy access to Lake Tahoe. South Lake Tahoe and casinos attractions are nearby. Lunch will often be on the trail or beach. Bring your own chair and favorite beverage. We will enjoy happy hour each evening at 5 pm to share stories and get acquainted. Coin-operated showers are available.Įach family is responsible for their own reservations, equipment and meals. There are no electrical hookups, but each site has a picnic table, food lockers, fire grills and drinking water. If you drop out, you are considered a NO SHOW!įacilities: The campground has 75 tent sites and 130 sites for either tents or RV's up to 40 feet. Limited to 25 attendees, please make a reservation BEFORE you RSVP. Fishing, hiking and boating are obvious pursuit. Linda and I hope you will join us at beautiful Fallen Leaf Lake at South Lake Tahoe just 3 miles NW of the junction of US -50 and CA-89. Address: 2165 Fallen Leaf Rd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
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