Washington Butterfly Association Spring Field Trips
Expert-led outings targeting Washington's 149+ butterfly species — from early Mourning Cloaks in March to Juniper Hairstreaks in the basalt canyons.
About the event
The Washington Butterfly Association organizes field trips across the state from early spring through fall, targeting the 149+ butterfly species recorded in Washington. Spring trips focus on early emergers — Mourning Cloaks overwintering as adults, Sara Orangetips in bloom-season shrubs, and specialists like Juniper Hairstreaks that only appear in specific juniper habitat.
Key spring destinations include Juniper Dunes near Pasco (Juniper Hairstreaks), Cowiche Canyon near Yakima (Asher's Blues, Orangetips, California Tortoiseshells), Lake Cushman (Johnson's and Cedar Hairstreaks, limited to 12 participants), Mima Mounds (no nets), and the Upper Tucannon River Valley (approximately 30 species including checkerspots).
What to expect
Small-group expert-led outings. Dates are approximate — leaders confirm based on weather and flight season. Some sites allow netting, others prohibit it. Skill levels from beginner to expert are welcome on most trips.
Sign up via individual trip leader emails listed on the WABA website. Some trips have participant limits and may fill quickly for popular destinations like Lake Cushman.