A sign of spring: Road to the scenic summit of Bend’s Pilot Butte reopens to vehicles next week

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced Monday that it will open Pilot Butte's summit road to vehicle traffic at 10 a.m. next Monday, April 14 for the 2025 season.

“We kindly remind visitors that the summit road is a shared space enjoyed by multiple users, including cyclists, walkers and runners," Park Manager Brian Vaughan said. " Please reduce your speed and exercise caution while driving. Remain alert, be mindful of others and approach with patience and courtesy to ensure everyone’s safety."

The summit road leads to the top of the butte, which is an old cinder cone. Visitors enjoy panoramic views of the Cascade mountains, including Three Sisters, Mount Jefferson, Black Butte and Mount Hood.

The road will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

For more information about the park, visit the webpage at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=33.