Kids' Butterfly Walk, Metolius Preserve

Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore the nature of Central Oregon! Photo: Rick Dingus.
Join the Land Trust on an outing to explore the nature of Central Oregon! Photo: Rick Dingus.

Explore the delicate and beautiful world of butterflies with the Deschutes Land Trust and Amanda Egertson. This family-friendly walk around the Metolius Preserve will captivate your young ones as they roam the forest searching for butterflies. Learn how to safely (safe for you AND the butters!) catch and identify butterflies as you delight in up-close encounters with these fluttery creatures. You'll also learn more about their unique features and natural history. Perfect for kids ages 6-11 with a grown-up in tow. Registration is required and opens 1 month prior to the event.

Face masks: Per Oregon Health Authority (OHA) guidelines, face masks are no longer required indoors or outside. Individuals who wish to wear a face mask may do so.

  • Outing Details + Route

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

    Route: This hike will start at the North Trailhead of the Metolius Preserve and explore Preserve trails. 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, closed toe 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.

  • Accessibility

    The Land Trust is working to make our Walks + Hikes as accessible as possible. Please let us know at least one week in advance if there is something we can do or provide to support you in participating in this outing to the fullest and we will accommodate as possible.