Two Swallowtail butterflies sit amongst the flowers on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Counting Butterflies as They Flutter by (Doughton Park - Milepost 238.5)

Blue Ridge Parkway

  • Every week on Sunday at 10:00 AM from May 17, 2026 to October 04, 2026
  • Free
 
 
 
Be a citizen scientist and help spot and count butterflies as part of the Carolina Butterfly Monitoring Program. This is a sure way to learn and recognize common butterfly species. 
Join the survey for .75 miles to the end of the second meadow then walk back on your own.  
 
Dress for the weather and wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. Bring water and binoculars if you have them. This is a recurring event every Sunday at 10 AM through late October.  
 

Fees

Free

Location

Doughton Park located at milepost 238.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Park in the parking lot next to Brinegar Cabin and follow the paved path to the garden.

Latitude and Longitude 36.418694, -81.146474

Schedule

Days:

Every week on Sunday

Dates:

May 17, 2026 to October 04, 2026

Time:

10:00 AM

Duration:

1 hour and 30 minutes

90 minutes

Contact Information

Blue Ridge Parkway

Contact Us

Event Type

  • Hike
Tags: butterflies , hike