Not only is the migration of the monarch butterflies in Wisconsin one of our favorite times of year, but the process is also one of the most unique phenomena in the world. As one of the only insects that can’t withstand winter in a temperate climate, when fall hits, monarchs west of the Rockies head to the California coast. Monarchs east of the Rockies head to the forests in the Mexican mountains. These small, beautiful insects travel up to 2,500 miles twice a year. Recent sightings in the southern part of the US mean the migration north has begun and a large number of the monarchs will pass through or stay in Wisconsin. So, if you’re wondering about the best time to see monarch butterflies in Wisconsin, here’s a map where you can keep track of the path of the migration.

Down south, the migration of the monarch numbers in the hundreds of millions as they head up from Mexico. Over the last couple of years, there has been a significant increase in the monarch butterfly population, and the scientists are quite excited about it. We won't see as many monarchs here as the northern migration spreads out across the center of the country, but we still should see plenty.
monarch butterflies in Wisconsin
Flickr/akaTman
The monarchs are fascinating because they travel so very far and oftentimes go back to the very same tree they wintered in the last time they migrated. The migration is studied closely, but is difficult to predict. We should start seeing the majestic insects as the calendar turns to May.
Flickr/SuzanneSchrecter
They particularly like milkweed, and fields of milkweed can be home to hundreds of thousands of monarch eggs and, eventually, larvae.
Flickr/MarkCarter

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The butterflies make this migration en masse, like you'd expect from whales or birds. But unlike birds and whales, individuals only make the round trip once. It is their children's grandchildren that return south the following fall.
monarch butterflies in Wisconsin
Flickr/YaniDubin
Forests and trees that are razed for development threaten the future of the monarch. If they're used to returning to a spot and that spot disappears, what will they do? They move south to survive the winter, but their wintering location doesn't have the food that the eggs and larvae need to grow.
Flickr/PeterMiller
Conservation efforts are underway to help protect this fascinating and beautiful creature that takes a journey unlike any other insect. Make sure you keep an eye out for these unique insects and help make your yard a place they want to be this spring and summer. As the migration moves, you just might find yourself with a yard full of monarchs.
Flickr/tdlucas5000

So, are you excited to see monarch butterflies in Wisconsin? If so, will you help lure these gorgeous and beautiful insects to your yard? Let us know if and when you spot a monarch this spring.

Nature enthusiasts, did you know there’s a park in Wisconsin where you can see sandhill cranes in their natural habitat? Check out our article telling you more about these gorgeous birds in Wisconsin.

The Underrated Local Park In Wisconsin Where You Can Watch Sandhill Cranes

Before you go exploring, be sure to visit REI for all your birdwatching and hiking gear.  

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Monarch Butterflies In Wisconsin

Melanie J. | February 22, 2024

Where is the best place to witness monarch butterflies in Wisconsin? 

You don’t need to go far to witness monarch butterflies in Wisconsin as some of the majestic insects could be fluttering around in your garden. However, if you would like to see more of these colorful insects head to the following gardens: 

  • Allen Centennial Garden, Madison
  • Butterfly Gardens of Wisconsin, Appleton
  • Old World Wisconsin, Eagle
  • Bookworm, Sheboygan
  • West Bend Labyrinth Garden, West Bend
  • West of the Lake Gardens, Manitowoc
  • Taliesin, Spring Green
  • The Garden Door, Sturgeon Bay
  • Hawthorn Hollow Nature Sanctuary and Arboretum, Kenosha

Read our previous article telling you more about the best places to witness monarch butterflies in Wisconsin.

What are some of the best spring hikes in Wisconsin?

If you’re a nature enthusiast and love spending time in the great outdoors, here are some of the best spring hikes in Wisconsin that we recommend:

  • Lime-Kiln Trail at High Cliff State Park, Sherwood
  • Powder Hill Trail at Kettle Moraine Pike Lake Unit, Hartford
  • Trail Tramper's Delight Trail at Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek
  • Bison Nature Trail at New Glarus Woods, New Glarus
  • Hemlock Nature Trail at Wildcat Mountain State Park, Ontario
  • Lake Geneva Path, Lake Geneva
  • Dells of the Eau Claire Loop, Dells of the Eau Claire Park, Aniwa
  • Riverview Trail at Perrot State Park, Trempealeau
  • Willow Springs Trail at Blue Mound State Park, Blue Mounds
  • Ski Trails at Powers Bluff Maple Woods, Aripin
  • Haskell Noyes Memorial Woods, Campbellsport, Fond du Lac
  • Fox Maple Woods, Florence
  • Guided Tour, Ridges Sanctuary, Bailey's Harbor

Be sure to read our previous article telling you more about the best spring hikes in Wisconsin.

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