Pilot Butte peak
Pilot Butte rises to 4,142 ft in Pacific-Ranges within the Cascade Range range.
Rising to an impressive elevation of 1,456 meters (4,775 feet), it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This volcanic cone-shaped mountain is a popular outdoor destination for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts.
During the winter season, Pilot Butte experiences varying snowpack levels, which greatly influence the recreational activities available. The snowpack range can vary significantly depending on weather conditions and can reach depths of several feet, making it an ideal spot for winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Pilot Butte is known for its unique geological features, as it is a volcanic cinder cone. It was formed thousands of years ago during a volcanic eruption. The mountain is surrounded by several creeks and rivers, including the Deschutes River, which often receives runoff from the melting snow on Pilot Butte during the spring and summer months. This provides a vital water source for the surrounding ecosystems.
The name "Pilot Butte" has different origins depending on the source. One account suggests that the mountain was used as a navigational landmark by early pilots, hence the name. Another legend tells the story of a Native American chief who was said to have used the mountain to guide his tribe through the region. Regardless of its origin, Pilot Butte remains an iconic landmark and a testament to the natural beauty of the Pacific Ranges.
For trail conditions and access, search Wikipedia or the local land manager's site. Browse other peaks in the Pacific-Ranges range.
Snowpack near Pilot Butte
Snow water equivalent and snowpack depth at SNOTEL stations near the peak. Best proxy for what's currently sitting on the summit.
| SNOTEL station | Snowpack | View |
|---|---|---|
| Nohrsc Mckenzie | 1 in | → |
| Nohrsc Chemult Alternate | 1 in | → |
| Mckenzie | 1 in | → |
| Silver Creek | 1 in | → |
Streamflow near Pilot Butte
USGS streamgauges in the basin drained by this peak. Spring snowmelt from the summit feeds these flows.
| Gauge | Streamflow | View |
|---|---|---|
| Crooked River Below Opal Springs | 1,270 cfs | → |
| Deschutes River Near Madras | 3,650 cfs | → |
| Metolius River Near Grandview | 1,280 cfs | → |
| Shitike Cr | 54 cfs | → |
| Crooked River Blw Osborne Canyon | 146 cfs | → |
| Mckenzie River At Outlet Of Clear Lake | 267 cfs | → |
| Shitike Creek Near Warm Springs | 66 cfs | → |
Plan around incoming weather
Same NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses. Watch the precipitation column -- snow at this elevation typically lags the radar signature by a few hours.
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
What's around Pilot Butte
Ski areas, river runs, fishing spots, campgrounds, parks, reservoirs, and boat launches within driving distance of Pilot Butte.
Ski areas
- Warner Canyon
- Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort
- Timberline Ski Area
- Mt. Bachelor
- Mt. Hood Skibowl
- White Pass Ski Area
Get Pilot Butte on your phone.
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