Pilot Butte Neighborhood Park

Where Community Meets Nature

Nestled at the foot of Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint in Bend, Oregon, this charming neighborhood park came to life in 2010. It was developed through a collaboration between Bend Park and Recreation District and Oregon State Parks, enhancing the popular Pilot Butte area.

Finding Your Way

You'll discover this intimate park near the restroom building and open lawn just north of the main Pilot Butte parking lot. The park's position at the butte's base gives you gorgeous views and convenient access to hiking trails that wind their way up the butte. It provides convenient neighborhood access to the butte's trails.

Room to Play and Relax

The park offers a lovely grassy field excellent for tossing a frisbee, having an impromptu picnic, or just lounging with a good book. Scattered shade trees create cool spots to escape the summer heat - something you'll definitely appreciate on those warm Bend afternoons.

With its open, welcoming layout, there's plenty of space for whatever activity strikes your fancy. It's a great spot for walking your four-legged friend (leashed, please) or simply unwinding after conquering the butte's trails.

Trails That Connect

Paved pathways through the park connect seamlessly to the broader trail network around Pilot Butte, making this an ideal jumping-off point for walks and jogs of all lengths. From here, you can hop onto the Pilot Butte Summit Trail, a moderately challenging 1.2-mile trek that rewards your effort with incredible views.

Thoughtfully placed benches along the summit trail offer perfect rest stops for catching your breath and soaking in the scenery. One of the nice things about this trail system is the option to take either the natural dirt path or the paved road to the top - your adventure, your choice.

The Views Are Worth It

While the neighborhood park itself sits at ground level, the connected Pilot Butte summit offers impressive 360-degree panoramic views. On clear days, you can see across Bend and out to the majestic Cascade Mountains, including Mount Bachelor, The Three Sisters, and sometimes even Mount Hood in the distance.

At the top, helpful placards identify all the mountains and landmarks you're looking at - no need to guess which peak is which. Many visitors come here to watch both sunrise and sunset.

The Little Things That Matter

The park includes a picnic shelter, several tables, and benches where you can relax or gather with friends. Clean restrooms are available near the parking area at the base, with an additional vault toilet at the summit for those mid-hike emergencies.

Open daily from 5 AM to 10 PM, you can fit in an early morning workout or an evening stroll after dinner. Note that if you prefer to drive rather than hike to the summit, the road typically opens around 10 AM each day.