CET Makes Summer Adventure Easier with Returning Recreation Shuttles

Cascades East Transit (CET) is rolling into summer with the return of its recreation shuttle services, making it easier than ever to explore Central Oregon without the parking hassles, traffic, or car shuttling.

The popular Lava Butte Shuttle, in collaboration with the Deschutes National Forest, began this past weekend providing easy access to one of Central Oregon’s most iconic volcanic viewpoints with sweeping 360-degree views. Seasonal Transit to Trails and Ride the River services will return June 17, offering convenient transportation to mountain biking trailheads and river float destinations throughout the summer.

“Central Oregon is built around outdoor adventure, and these services make it easier for everyone to enjoy it,” said Andrea Wasilew, CET Outreach & Engagement Administrator. “Whether you’re heading to the trails, floating the river, or taking in the views at Lava Butte, CET helps people spend less time dealing with parking and more time enjoying the experience.”

Lava Butte Shuttle Service

The Lava Butte Shuttle operates daily through September 7 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with departures every 20 minutes between the Lava Lands Visitor Center and the summit of Lava Butte. The shuttle provides a relaxing and scenic ride to panoramic volcanic views, interpretive exhibits, and the historic fire lookout area.

Round-trip fares are $5, with children under 5 riding free. Shuttles are wheelchair accessible and can accommodate bicycles, making the experience easy and accessible for a wide range of visitors. Tickets are available inside the Lava Lands Visitor Center bookstore or through the CET Go app.

Transit to Trails Shuttle Service

Beginning June 17, Transit to Trails will connect riders directly to the Deschutes National Forest trail system and one of Oregon’s largest singletrack mountain biking networks. The service is designed for mountain bikers, outdoor enthusiasts, families, and visitors looking to skip the parking hassle and ride straight to the trails, snow park trailheads, and Mt. Bachelor recreation area.

Operating through September 7, the service departs the Park & Ride, located at 90 SW Columbia Street in Bend, at 8:00 a.m., with the final return trip arriving at 5:50 p.m. Buses are ADA accessible, and offer free WiFi, A dedicated bike trailer can carry up to 20 bikes per trip, creating an easy and affordable $10 round-trip option through the CET Go app for riders and groups heading to the trails.

Ride the River Floating Shuttle

Ride the River returns June 17, helping floaters skip the traditional multi-car shuffle associated with floating the Deschutes River. The shuttle provides simple transportation between Riverbend Park and Drake Park, allowing passengers to park once and float all day without worrying about parking logistics or coordinating vehicles.

The service features $5 all-day passes for shuttle service, creating an easy and affordable option for families, visitors, groups, and local residents looking to enjoy a summer day on the river.

Recreation Without the Parking Hassle

CET’s summer recreation shuttles are designed to improve access to outdoor destinations while reducing traffic congestion, parking demand, and environmental impacts at some of Central Oregon’s busiest recreation areas.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, purchase passes in advance through the CET Go app., and follow CET on social media for route updates, rider tips, and launch events throughout the summer.

For schedules, route details, passes, and updates, visit www.cascadeseasttransit.com.

This story is based on submitted information and has not been verified by our news team.