On Saturday, August 23, 2025, the Carolina Butterfly Society Western NC Chapter has special permission to visit the Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center (AHSLC) at the Purchase off Hwy 276 in Haywood County near Waynesville, NC. GPS coordinates of the AHSLC are 35.58602, -83.07328. This gorgeous 235-acre property sits at 5086 feet and became part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 2000. If the weather cooperates, we’ll be in for a real treat. The views are amazing. The property features a beautiful house and an 1884 cabin in a meadow.

From the center’s parking lot, we will hike through the meadow; along the road; by the creek; and even through some woods. We should see Monarchs, American Coppers, Great Spangled and Aphrodite Fritillaries, among others.

Bring a bag lunch (the center has a deck and picnic tables). Bathrooms available. Walking is easy-to-moderate. Our leader is Gail Lankford. Please contact her if you plan to attend: whocooksforyou64@gmail.com