Oregon State Parks Description: "Come and explore an old cinder cone located just east of Bend. Hike up and around on one of three trails. The trails wind through stands of juniper and sage. All of the trails lead to the summit. Once at the top, get ready for a grand panoramic view of the high desert.
To the west at sunset, the glow of snowcapped Cascade mountains put on a spectacular show. Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, Black Butte and Mt. Hood are some of the highlights. Bring something to quench your thirst after the climb; there's no drinking water at the park."
My Comments:
Pilot Butte is a great viewpoint on a clear day. It's one of the few places you can get unobstructed 360 degree views. You have the city of Bend in the foreground, and sweeping views of the diverse Central Oregon landscapes in the distance.
If you've got little kids, it's about a mile spiral drive up to the top, and once you get there, the kids are basically contained away from traffic in a circular area that includes interpretive signs and pointers to tell you the names of the mountains.
If you have older kids, you can try the nature trail up to the top.
You can see many of the Cascade peaks and all the way to Mount Hood on a super clear day. The Ochocos are to the east, Smith Rock to the north, and Paulina Peak to the south.
This is a short side trip. It's not going to hold their attention for long and there is no shade.
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