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Edison Butte Sno-Park

Photo courtesy of @recreationleader

Edison Butte Sno-Park just might be the best-kept secret on the winter sports scene in Central Oregon. The park sits just 30 minutes southwest of Bend and 15 minutes northwest of Sunriver—and offers a little of everything for outdoor enthusiasts in a quiet environment.

For starters, visitors love the dog-friendly nature of Edison Butte—where they can let Fido run free on the quiet trails, and where the rolling terrain provides an exhilarating (but not too strenuous) workout.

Nordic skiers can choose among several trails that head through a snowy forest of pine and fir; one popular loop leads to the AC/DC warming hut, which provides some warmth and protection from the elements. Snowshoers, meanwhile, can traverse several well-marked paths that crisscross the heart of the Sno-Park—while snowmobilers can circle the many buttes nearby and explore the broader forests and meadows to the west.

A large, paved parking area sits at the trailhead and provides plenty of room for snowmobile trailers. There, visitors will also find restrooms and a signboard with trail maps.

Open Season

November-April, depending on snowpack

Dog Friendly and/or Leash Rules

Dogs are permitted and must be leashed in the parking area.

Best time to visit

Jan.-Feb.

Don’t Miss

Snowy peaks are rarely seen along the trail—so savor the occasional view of Mount Bachelor when it rises to the northwest—especially along the Alternating Current and Direct Current trails.

Fees or Pass Needed

A Sno-Park Parking Permit is required April-Nov.; a daily Sno-Park permit costs $4, a three-day permit costs $9, and a season-long pass costs $25.

Restrictions

The Sno-Park’s Edison Shelter is closed due to structural issues.

Activities

Snowshoeing

Nordic Skiing

Snowmobiling/ATV

Parking

A large, paved parking area, with room for RVs and trailers, is available.

Directions

From Bend, the 22-mile drive to Edison Butte Sno-Park takes about 30 minutes via SW Century Drive, which becomes the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway, and Forest Road 45.

Other stories

More inspiring stories, adventures, and tips & tricks for planning and experiencing the best Central Oregon has to offer.

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