Central Oregon

Lava Butte is closed to vehicles in the winter, but open for hiking. You can park at the closed visitor center, or there's an option to pull off 97 near where the Lava Butte road passes the highway. From here there's a very short trail through the brush and you're on the road. We did this option which puts the hike at about 1.2 mi and 540' gain. 

The road was mostly clear of snow and ice, with just a handful of spots that had it. We did not need the microspikes we brought in our packs, but had the temps been colder, they would've been neccessary in some spots. 

First the TL;DR: This is a five star bike ride. I HIGHLY recommend this route. This route passes many different trailheads and parking areas along the Deschutes River, so it is possible to put together a ride that is shorter and easier. Much of the route is gradual uphill with Lava Butte itself being the real kicker. 

Highland Flat is located in the Ochoco National Forest, approx 15 miles north of Priveville.  In April 2019 I completed a first-time activation of the summit which is suprising since there's very good forest road access up to near the activation zone.  My activation was more challanging due to snow which resulted in a 4-mile snowshoe hike.  But this is usually an easy 4-pointer and recommended for anyone visiting the Prineville area.