Butterfly Walk, Metolius Preserve

Hikers enjoy a winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.
Hikers enjoy a winter day at Whychus Canyon Preserve. Photo: Jay Mather.

Explore the delicate and beautiful world of butterflies with the Deschutes Land Trust and Amanda Egertson. We'll search the pine forests of the Preserve for early season butterflies like Sara's orangetips, spring azures, and the even-year emerger the Great Artic! Delight in up-close encounters with these fluttery creatures as you learn about their identification and ecology. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

  • Outing Details + Route

    Hike Rating: This is an easy ~1-2 mile hike on dirt roads and trails.

    Route: This hike will start at the North Trailhead of the Metolius Preserve and will explore trails in the area. Terrain will be uneven at times.

    Elevation gain/loss: There is very little elevation gain/loss on this hike.

  • What to Bring

    Snacks/lunch, water, sturdy hiking shoes. Dress for the weather.

  • About the Property

    The Metolius Preserve is a 1,240 acre forested Preserve near Camp Sherman, Oregon. The Deschutes Land Trust established the Preserve in 2003. The Preserve contains mature ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and western larch, as well as a rich diversity of other plant species. Three miles of Lake Creek, an important tributary to the Metolius River, flow through the property, contributing to the rich habitat found on the Preserve.