Visit The Monarch Grove at Natural Bridges in Northern California

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Have you ever wondered what it’s like to move en masse with thousands of people just like you? Well, that’s exactly what you’ll experience at Monarch Grove at Natural Bridges in Northern California. Every year, from late fall through spring, nearly 10,000 majestic monarch butterflies make their annual trek from the Rocky Mountain valley regions to this natural sanctuary for their winter habitat. Join us as we walk and play with these delicate and beautiful creatures as we enjoy their impressive life cycle.

Monarch Grove at Natural Bridges is located at 2531 W Cliff Dr. in Santa Cruz. It is part of the Natural Bridges State Beach Recreation Area.

The general area encompasses a park and a beach and teems with an abundance of divergent wildlife. From seals to otters, shore crabs, starfish, whales, shorebirds and more, you can enjoy them in their natural habitat.

The hike along the Monarch Natural Bridges Trail is very leisurely, passing over wooden boardwalks and through swamps, wetlands, pastures and wooded areas.

Be sure to bring your binoculars for a closer look at the butterflies, as well as the other wildlife dotted on both sides of the trail.

Because the trail is paved, it is easily navigable for people of all walking abilities.

It’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon or more wandering around and enjoying all that nature has to offer in this area of ​​California’s beautiful coastline.

Monarch Grove in Natural Bridges has the distinction of being the only State Monarch Reserve in the State of California. Depending on the year (and maybe affected a bit by Climate Change), you could see anywhere from 6,000 to 10,000+ butterflies flocking to the area.

Butterflies are very fragile and should not be touched or disturbed by humans, pets, or loud noises. If they are accidentally touched, they are not harmful to you. However, their natural defense against other predators comes from the toxin in the Milkwood plants on which they feast.

Although the monarchs are here for several months, the best time to catch them (with your eyes only!) in all their colorful glory is from late October through November.

In addition to the natural foliage, butterflies are drawn to flowers strategically planted by the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

You will find “boot” signage areas along the trail that provide detailed and educational information about their migration patterns and life cycles.

A hike here is fun and very relaxing, whether you’re alone, with friends, or walking with the family.

Experiencing the annual migration is an incredible experience and one that everyone should experience at least once in their life. A visit to Monarch Grove in Natural Bridges makes it easy.

Have you ever been to Monarch Grove in Natural Bridges? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there. You can also learn more about Natural Bridges State Beach on their Facebook page.

If you’re looking for something else to do in the Santa Cruz area, check out this creepy yet amazing series of caves!

Direction: Natural Bridges State Beach, 2531 W Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, USA

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