The parking lot at the summit of Skinner Butte Park has closed for the season due to fire danger, city of Eugene officials said Monday.

The parking lot and summit road will remain closed to vehicles until Oct. 1, officials said in a press release.

The closure was requested by Eugene Springfield Fire, officials with the city’s Parks and Open Space division said. Skinner Butte has a history of illegal fireworks activity and brush fires, particularly during the summer season, the news release said.

In 2024, the city closed the summit lot during fire season.

The press release said that Skinner Butte’s physical features contribute to wildfire hazards in the area:

  • The butte’s steep slopes accelerate uphill fire spread, increasing the intensity and speed of wildfire growth from ignition sources.
  • The butte is adjacent to developed urban areas, including residential neighborhoods, the historic Shelton McMurphey Johnson House, and park infrastructure.
  • Despite fuel-reduction efforts by the Parks and Open Space division, dry grasses, shrubs, and mature trees create a fuel bed that can easily burn.

The summit remains accessible to pedestrians and cyclists.  Officials said a number of trails lead to the summit in addition to the paved road, including a trail across from RiverPlay Playground which winds its way through native habitats to the top of the butte.