The butte is a recreational area and includes the Barnes Butte hiking trail, a 4-mile (6.4km) loop that includes a 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hike to the summit.[5][6]
A concept plan, "Echo of the Butte," was developed by the Barnes Butte Focus Committee to establish a visitor center, amphitheater, and pond around the Happy Hour Plateau. Further development will be conducted on the trails with redeveloped paved paths and a boardwalk on BLM land. Included in the plan is nature rehabilitation, a bat adit along the trail towards the butte, and rest areas. As a part of resolution no. 1472, the Prineville City Council joined by mayor Rodney J. Beebe adopted the concept plan January 26, 2021.[7]
The butte is considered one of three popular landmarks near Prineville and has been set aside for scenic preservation.[8]
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