Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint

The Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint in Bend, Oregon, is an extinct cinder cone volcano. Bend is one of 23 states in the entire United States that has a volcano within city limits, some of the others being Portland, Oregon; Jackson, Mississippi; and Honolulu, Hawaii. The Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint offers a quiet retreat from the surrounding city and has just over 114 acres for you to enjoy and explore. 

Three trails all wind around the hill and lead to its summit. Nearly 875,000 people visit this community feature every year. Bring your pup and walk up the spiraling trails all the way to the nearly 500-foot summit, where there is a wide platform offering panoramic views of the city of Bend, as well as many neighboring mountains, from the Cascades to the west to the sister peaks, Mt. Jefferson, Black Butte, and Mt. Hood. 

The sunset against the backdrop of the Cascades is quite the view. For families with children, Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint has a playground with plenty of room for kids to play and run around. You can also bring food and enjoy a picnic at the top of Pilot Butte. The Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint may sometimes host events, such as sunset walks with a guide who discusses ecology or history. 

Check the park’s website for a detailed events calendar. The Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint is open for day use year-round. The summit road closes for vehicles over the winter, but the trails remain open year-round. There are no fees for admission or use. Dogs are welcome at Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint, as long as they’re kept leashed. 

Make sure you clean up all pet waste and be respectful of the park and of other visitors. Always remove trash and keep the park clean. If you are near Bend, Oregon, you cannot miss taking a walk at Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint and seeing its spectacular panoramic views.