BEND, Oregon---The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department has opened the summit road at Pilot Butte State Scenic Viewpoint to vehicle traffic as of Friday, May 1, for the 2026 season. This year’s opening comes later than in past seasons. A contracted security service that previously handled evening park closures ended last fall, and park staff will now take on those duties. Seasonal employees who assist with closures begin work in May. Pedestrian and bicycle access to Pilot Butte is available year-round. Only vehicle access is affected. Future improvements, including automatic gate systems, are being planned to improve efficiency and support long-term financial savings. “Opening the road on May 1 allows us to align our operations with the staffing and resources we have available this spring,” said District Manager Dani Padilla. “Like many public agencies, we’re navigating budget constraints and working hard to operate more efficiently. Even as we run leaner, our commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience at Pilot Butte hasn’t changed.” The road provides access to panoramic views of the Cascade mountains, including Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, Black Butte and Mt. Hood. Once the road opens, visitors are asked to drive slowly, stay alert, and share the road courteously. The summit route is used by walkers, runners, cyclists, and motorists, and respectful behavior helps everyone enjoy the park safely. The road will be open from 10 a.m. to dusk, 30 minutes after sunset, daily until it closes for the season in the fall. For more information about the park, visit the webpage at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=33.