Sunday, May 17 | Rock Bottom Ranch |  Free, registration required 

Bike to the Butterflies! We heavily encourage families to bike to the event due to limited parking at Rock Bottom Ranch. Bikers will be entered into a raffle with fun prizes!

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of high-altitude pollinators at our interactive summer celebration at Rock Bottom Ranch. This family-friendly afternoon kicks off with a series of experiential stations where science meets creativity. You’ll have the rare opportunity to use professional microscopes and specimens with world-renowned entomologist Dr. David Lohman to see the intricate details of butterflies invisible to the naked eye. 

From testing your skills with butterfly nets to exploring our Monarch Waystation and designing pollinator-friendly garden kits to take home, every station offers a new way to connect with our local ecosystem. While you enjoy fresh strawberries, lemonade, and butterfly-themed treats, don’t forget to complete your scavenger hunt to earn a delicious reward and participate in our (weather-permitting) live butterfly release.

Following the outdoor festivities, we’ll move into the Pole Barn for a presentation by Dr. Lohman ( live Spanish translation available). Dive deep into the mysteries of Monarch research—including the fascinating “clock in the eye” that guides their continental migrations—and explore the evolutionary secrets behind why butterflies are so breathtakingly beautiful. Whether you are an aspiring young scientist or an adult enthusiast, you’ll walk away with a profound understanding of why these delicate creatures are vital to our healthy rivers and alpine landscapes. Join us to discover what makes our local mountain butterflies unique and how you can become a champion for pollinator conservation in your own backyard.