Quintessential Butterfly Returns to Beachside Destination

SANTA CRUZ, CA – Did you know that Natural Bridges State Park is California’s only State Monarch Preserve and one of a few select sites along the California coast where Monarch butterflies choose to "hibernate" until the following spring?  The Monarch grove at Natural Brides provides a temporary home for over 100,000 Monarchs each season. From mid-October through the end of February, the butterflies form a "city in the trees."  The area’s mild ocean air and eucalyptus grove provide a safe roost where milkweed, the only plant a Monarch caterpillar eats, is plentiful.

Beginning Saturday, October 13, 2007, and continuing on weekends through January 2008, guided tours of the wooded pathway into Monarch Grove can be taken with a park interpreter at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.  Or, opt for a self-guided tour using a map with interpretive text and points of interest.  On Sunday, October 14, 2007, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., families can learn more about these amazing creatures during “Welcome Back Monarchs Day”, with art, games, music and fun.   The Monarch Grove is located about 100 yards from the visitor center, and is stroller and wheelchair accessible.

Natural Bridges State Park is located at 2531 West Cliff Drive in Santa Cruz.  For more information, visit www.santacruzevents.travel.