Central Arizona Butterfly Association

Joint fieldtrip with ATA to the Highline Trail North of Payson. Leaders: Marceline VandeWater & Wendy Hodgson

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On Saturday June 13th we will hike a part of the AZ/Highline trail in pursuit of colorful butterflies. This will be a joint fieldtrip with the Arizona Trail Association (ATA). As the temperature rises, the flowers start to bloom higher and higher in elevation. Butterflies follow this nectar flow “up the trail” and June is the perfect time to check them out. An abundant plant along the trail: Bergamot (attracts the pretty Fritillaries. Butterfly Weed and Arizona Thistle are also popular amongst the nectaring butterflies. Other butterflies (like Blues) are more interested in mudpuddling at one of the three springs we will pass. Yet another group of butterflies like California Sister and Weidemeyer’s Admiral are mostly found perched on trees. Please wear sturdy shoes and a hat, bring water, snacks and a sacklunch. A pair of close focusing binoculars will be handy too. The trail is moderately steep in places, but we will take our time. Trip leaders: Marceline VandeWater and Wendy Hodgson. Meeting place is Denny’s on Shea Blvd in Fountain Hills at 6:30am or at the trailhead at 8:15am. Details to get to the trailhead: Drive to Payson, go straight at the hwy 260 intersection. After 3/4 mile turn right onto Houston Mesa Road. Cross all 3 "water crossings", and after about 8 miles turn left at the stop sign. The road now turns into a dirt road. After about 1 miles turn right towards Shadow Rim Camp and Washington Park Trailhead. Follow this road up for about 5.5 miles until the right turn-off to the Washington Park Trailhead (marked). After a bit turn left (signs again) and you will find the trailhead well marked. We ask for a $5 donation per person.