BEND, Ore. — The much-anticipated opening of the Pilot Butte summit road will take place on April 14 at 10:00 a.m., Oregon State Parks announced in a press release Monday. This marks the beginning of the seasonal reopening of the road, allowing visitors to drive to the top of the iconic butte, which offers sweeping views of Bend and the surrounding areas.

The road will be open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., providing ample time for visitors to access the summit. However, Oregon State Parks has reminded drivers that the road is a shared space enjoyed by various users, including cyclists, walkers, and runners. As such, park officials are urging motorists to reduce their speed and exercise caution while driving.

Brian Vaughan, Park Manager at Pilot Butte, emphasized the importance of safety in his statement. “We kindly remind visitors that the summit road is a shared space enjoyed by multiple users. 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,” Vaughan said.

The opening of the summit road provides an excellent opportunity for residents and tourists alike to enjoy the panoramic views from one of Bend’s most popular landmarks. However, visitors are reminded to be considerate of others using the road, especially as the area can become crowded during peak times.

For those planning to visit, it’s important to remember the road’s operating hours: 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., daily. As always, park staff encourages all visitors to be mindful of their surroundings and follow posted guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.