Avoid parking woes: CET’s summer shuttles to outdoor destinations are back
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Cascades East Transit (CET) has reinstated its summer recreation shuttle services, offering convenient access to Central Oregon's outdoor destinations while aiming to alleviate parking challenges, traffic congestion and the need for car shuttling. These services include the Lava Butte Shuttle, Transit to Trails, and Ride the River, which collectively serve key recreational areas in the region.
The return of these shuttle services is designed to improve public access to Central Oregon's outdoor amenities, an area known for its adventure opportunities. By providing transportation, CET intends to reduce parking demand and environmental impacts at popular recreation sites. The Lava Butte Shuttle launched this past weekend in collaboration with the Deschutes National Forest, providing access to a volcanic viewpoint. The Transit to Trails and Ride the River services are scheduled to begin on June 17.
Andrea Wasilew, CET outreach and engagement administrator, emphasized the benefit of these services. “Central Oregon is built around outdoor adventure and these services make it easier for everyone to enjoy it,” Wasilew said. “Whether you're heading to the trails, floating the river, or taking in the views at Lava Butte, CET helps people spend less time dealing with parking and more time enjoying the experience.”
The Lava Butte Shuttle operates daily through Sept. 7, running from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Departures occur every 20 minutes between the Lava Lands Visitor Center and the summit of Lava Butte. This service provides a scenic journey to panoramic volcanic views, interpretive exhibits and the historic fire lookout area. Round-trip fares for the Lava Butte Shuttle are $5, with children under five riding free. The shuttles are wheelchair accessible and can transport bicycles. Tickets are available at the Lava Lands Visitor Center bookstore or through the CET Go app.
Beginning June 17, the Transit to Trails service will transport riders directly to the Deschutes National Forest trail system, which includes one of Oregon's largest singletrack mountain biking networks. This service caters to mountain bikers, outdoor enthusiasts, families and visitors seeking to avoid parking difficulties and go straight to trailheads and the Mount Bachelor recreation area. The Transit to Trails service operates through Sept. 7, departing the Park & Ride, located at 90 SW Columbia Street in Bend, at 8:00 a.m. The final return trip arrives at 5:50 p.m. Buses are ADA accessible and offer free WiFi. A dedicated bike trailer can accommodate up to 20 bikes per trip and round-trip fares are $10 through the CET Go app.
Also starting June 17, the Ride the River floating shuttle will assist floaters on the Deschutes River by eliminating the need for a multi-car shuffle. This service provides transportation between Riverbend Park and Drake Park, allowing passengers to park once and enjoy floating the river throughout the day. All-day passes for the Ride the River shuttle service cost $5.
Residents and visitors planning to use these recreation shuttles are advised to plan ahead and purchase passes in advance through the CET Go app. For further updates, route details and schedules, individuals can follow CET on social media throughout the summer or visit www.cascadeseasttransit.com.
