Just a short drive from downtown Bend, Oregon is a spot that is not to be missed – Pilot Butte. It’s a short spiraling drive up to the top of this scenic viewpoint. If you are feeling energetic you can hike to the top. This seemed a popular activity and we saw plenty of people walking, hiking and even running on Pilot Butte.

From the top of this cinder cone you have panoramic views of the surrounding mountains – even Mount Hood! In case you were wondering exactly which peaks were the Sisters and where exactly is Mt Bachelor, there is a handy plaque mapping out all the mountains. I had a deep discussion with a 7 year old girl about which mountains were the Sisters.

Pilot Butte is open year round but you are going to want to wait for a nice clear day for the best viewing conditions. It would also be a great place to take in a sunrise or sunset. Aside from the mountains we had a great view of all the fall colors.