Elfin Magic Ma-Le’l Dunes North April 11, 2026

Our first butterfly field trip of the season will be to explore some of our earliest flying butterflies at Ma-Le’l Dunes North! This is a good event to learn a handful of local butterflies and a great entry to butterfly appreciation. The field trip will start at 10:00am on April 11.  We’ll be hiking approximately two miles across sandy terrain, including a steep hike on loose sand near the start and finish. We’ll explore an interspersion of shore pines and kinnikinnick which support two types of elfin butterflies: the western pine elfin (pictured above) and the brown elfin. These spring fliers overwinter as pupae and emerge when the weather gets nice. We may also see acmon blues, painted ladies, and red admirals! We plan to be there 2-3 hours, though this is an out-and-back walk where participants can pace themselves and easily depart at any time.  What to bring? Comfortable sturdy shoes, water, extra water, food, extra food, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, binoculars, field guides, camera (optional), enthusiasm, and whatever other butterfly gear you may desire! Here’s a handy checklist to help you prepare.  When and where to meet? We’ll be meeting at Ma-Le’l Dunes North on Saturday, April 11 at 10:00 am. It is about a 10 minute drive from Arcata. If you need a ride or want to caravan from Arcata, please email [email protected]. We’ll be meeting at this parking area (40.87272, -124.15222). If you show up late, follow the Kimuk trail out to the pines and you will likely see us!