The Washington side of the Columbia Gorge has an exceptional area called Silver Star Mountain.  It's a long hike and a steep climb in spots with many rewards.  There are fantastic views, flower meadows, rock pits believed to be built by native Americans, and of course butterflies.  One day I happened on this blue one.  There are many species of blues but they are difficult to identify without seeing the pattern on the underside--which is unique to each species.  This one is such an intense blue that finding it made the entire trip worthwhile.  It's no bigger than a quarter; the camera lets us see it from a new and vibrant perspective.  

If you visit Silver Star Mountain, be sure to bring a camera along to take pictures, along with a wildflower guide and notebook.  The months of May, June, and early July are best for flowers and butterflies.  This spot in the Gorge has one of the largest butterfly populations and is an excellent one to scout for ideas about wildflowers to plant at home to provide a haven for them.  A few examples of flowers that are attractive to butterflies and grow there are the Hawksbeard, Golden-Pea, Lupine, Indian Paintbrush, Blue Gentian, Tiger Lily, and Aster.