The Allure of Awbrey Butte

Awbrey Butte evokes images of glowing sunsets, sweeping Cascade views, twinkling city lights, colorful sunrises, towering ponderosa pines, and roaming deer. Living here feels as much about the environment and your surroundings as it does about the home itself—though owning a home on the Butte makes the experience even more special.

Nature surrounds you, creating a sense of peace and privacy that is hard to find so close to downtown Bend. It rarely feels crowded. Once people visit Awbrey Butte, it is hard not to fall in love with the neighborhood—and for those who move here, there is a strong likelihood they will stay for many years.

A Rich Local History

Awbrey Butte, originally known as Awbrey Heights, was named after legendary Bend pioneer Marshall Clay Awbrey. A Missourian who fought in the Mexican War, Awbrey settled in Bend around 1870. He farmed land in the areas now occupied by Harmon Park and Kenwood School before later moving to the Tumalo area. Many streets and landmarks throughout Bend still bear the names of these early settlers.

The modern vision for Awbrey Butte began with Mike Hollern of Brooks Resources, who saw the potential of what locals often called simply "the hill." In 1970, Brooks Resources purchased approximately 1,800 acres from Robert Coats and West Hills, Inc. Development officially began in 1984, with the first homesites—near Glassow and Tower Rock—selling for about $25,000.

One of the earliest challenges was securing a reliable water source. After constructing a reservoir on the Butte, work could begin on roads and infrastructure. Development also faced the economic slowdown and recession of the 1980s.

From the beginning, great care was taken to preserve mature trees, protect natural landscaping, and minimize environmental impact. Homes were often built in a "stair-step" pattern to protect sightlines, and roads were designed in concentric loops so they would be less visible from below.

Development was completed in 2005, resulting in a premier community of 782 homesites. While Bend now offers many luxury neighborhoods, Awbrey Butte remains timeless and continues to hold its reputation as one of the city's most desirable addresses.

Top Reasons Buyers Choose Awbrey Butte

Large lots
Average lot sizes range from approximately ¼ acre to 1 acre, offering space, privacy, and breathing room. Fencing is minimal, creating a feeling of openness and enhancing views throughout the neighborhood.

Spectacular views
At approximately 4,167 feet in elevation, Awbrey Butte is considered the highest point in Bend. From various locations, residents enjoy views of the Cascade Mountains to the west, Smith Rock and Powell Butte to the north, the Paulina Mountains to the south, and city and high-desert views to the east. Even homes without direct views are only moments away from scenic overlooks.

Exceptional location
Downtown Bend is walkable from many areas of the Butte and is typically less than a 10-minute drive. Westside living also provides easy access to Mt. Bachelor, local restaurants, two nearby golf courses—Awbrey Glen and River's Edge—and the Redmond Airport.

A walker's paradise
With sidewalks and multiple hiking and walking routes throughout the neighborhood, there is always a new path to explore.

Two beautiful parks
Sylvan Park and Summit Park, both managed by Bend Park & Recreation District, https://www.bendparksandrec.org/ offer tennis courts, playgrounds, half-court basketball, and expansive green space for picnics, play, and relaxing outdoors. A foot trail conveniently connects the two parks.

Green space and a forest-like setting
Towering ponderosa pines, manzanita, bitterbrush, and other native vegetation create a natural sanctuary for wildlife. Deer remain a familiar sight, much as they were when locals once came up the hill to hunt. Tree removal over a certain diameter requires HOA approval, helping preserve the neighborhood's character.

Architectural variety with thoughtful guidelines
Awbrey Butte features a diverse mix of architectural styles. CCRs and architectural guidelines help ensure that new construction complements the neighborhood and protects its natural surroundings. HOA dues remain relatively low for a community of this caliber.

What Residents Say

"We love the sense of community here and the friendliness of neighbors and walkers passing by. It feels safe. Our kids roamed from house to house when they were young—just like I did growing up. We also love feeling as though we live in a forest outside of town, while actually being only minutes from downtown."
— Linda, Rich & Matthew Gross

"It gives me a true sense of place. The beautiful views remind me every day why I moved to Bend."
— J.W.D.

"When we decided to downsize, we looked all over Bend for nearly a year. Ultimately, we realized once again that we loved Awbrey Butte and wanted to stay right here. This is where we want to be. We walk everywhere—it's truly a walker's paradise with 360-degree views. We've met so many new walking friends, and everyone says how much they love the neighborhood."
— Char & Rich Anderson

If you would like more information about Awbrey Butte, including current homes or lots for sale or are looking to list or puchase a home in Central Oregon; please contact

Colleen Dillingham Broker at 541-788-9991.

Living and working in Bend for over 35 years

Experienced and Knowledgeable about the local market and will help you make the right move!

https://colleendillingham.bendpremierrealestate.com/

Broker at https://www.bendpremierrealestate.com/