UPDATE July 2021 - The lookout is sometimes staffed by a person (at that lookout for 42 years) that incorrectly believes that ham radio requires a Special Use Permit at this location. It is recommended to not activate at the summit or discuss radio with this person, but activate out of sight of the lookout tower off the road.
Odell Butte is a 7032 foot high volcanic cone in central Oregon. It is easy to get to and provides great views. The summit has an active fire lookout, an outhouse and a picnic table, along with RF installations. It is an easy 6 pointer in the summer.
Take Odell Butte Road off of Highway 58 that leads up the south side of the mountain as this route is entirely Priusable, There is also a road that comes off of the Crescent Cutoff and heads up the north side that is not Priusable. These two roads meet each other part of the way up. For the northern route, take 58 east to County Road 61, the Crescent Cutoff Road. Take the Cutoff and go 4 miles to the Odell Butte Road on the right. From Highway 97, take the Cutoff road 7 miles to the Odell Butte Road on the left. Either way, take that turn and continue up 6 miles to the gate.
Park at the gate and hike uphill less than a mile (about 500 feet net elevation gain) to the summit. There are great views walking up the road, from the rock outcrops on the summit or from the lookout steps. The RF is a minor issue, but the butte otherwise makes a wonderful activation experience.
