Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of Bend, Oregon, this region offers some of the most breathtaking and challenging golf courses you’ll find anywhere. Nestled in the heart of Central Oregon, Bend is an oasis for golf enthusiasts, combining stunning landscapes with exceptional facilities. The area boasts a variety of courses that not only challenge your skills but also offer a visual feast with their lush greenery, striking vistas, and unique layouts. Let’s take a swing through the best golf courses in Bend, OR that you absolutely must visit.
The Old Back Nine at Mountain High
The Old Back Nine at Mountain High is a hidden gem in Bend’s golf scene. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, this course offers nine holes that are perfect for a quick game. It’s a great spot for golfers of all skill levels and provides a relaxed environment that emphasizes enjoyment over competitiveness. The lush fairways and challenging layout make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. What sets The Old Back Nine apart is its ability to make you feel at home; the friendly staff and welcoming community make it an inviting place to play, whether you’re looking to practice or just enjoy a leisurely round.
The course is nestled in a serene setting with mature pines and a backdrop of the Cascade Mountains, which enhances the overall experience. Despite being a nine-hole course, it offers a diverse range of holes that test different aspects of your game, from precision to power. The Old Back Nine also hosts various events and tournaments throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among golf lovers. Whether you’re in Bend for a short visit or an extended stay, make sure to carve out some time to experience the charm and challenge of The Old Back Nine.
Juniper Golf Course
If you’re looking for a course that combines tradition with a modern twist, Juniper Golf Course is the place to be. This course is renowned for its immaculate greens and stunning mountain views. Situated in nearby Redmond, it offers an 18-hole championship course that provides a satisfying challenge for golfers. The Juniper Golf Course is ideal for those who appreciate a well-maintained course with a bit of extra challenge.
The layout of Juniper Golf Course is both strategic and picturesque, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and golfing excellence. The course is known for its undulating terrain and strategically placed bunkers, which require thoughtful play and precision. Beyond the physical challenge, the course’s tranquil ambiance allows you to immerse yourself in the sport, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The course also features a well-equipped pro shop and a clubhouse where golfers can relax and unwind after a round, adding to the overall appeal of the golfing experience here.
Crooked River Ranch Golf Club
For golfers who enjoy a more rugged course, Crooked River Ranch Golf Club delivers. This course is set in a picturesque canyon and offers some of the most spectacular views in the region. The unique layout and natural obstacles, including water hazards and cliffs, make this course a thrilling experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, you’ll find the Crooked River Ranch Golf Club an exhilarating place to play.
The course is known for its dramatic elevation changes and stunning vistas that overlook the Crooked River and Cascade Mountains. It offers a unique blend of challenges, with narrow fairways and strategically placed hazards that require both skill and strategy. Golfers often find themselves pausing to take in the breathtaking scenery, making the game as much about enjoying the environment as it is about scoring. The club also offers excellent practice facilities and a welcoming community, making it a great place to hone your skills and meet fellow golf enthusiasts.
Golfing in Bend: A Diverse Experience
Bend offers a diverse array of golf courses, each providing a unique experience that caters to different preferences and skill levels. Whether you’re on the hunt for a casual round or a competitive challenge, Bend has something for everyone. The variety of landscapes and course designs ensures that every golfer can find a course that suits their style and mood. From rugged, natural settings to manicured, championship-level courses, the choices are as diverse as they are plentiful.
Golfing in Bend is not just about the game; it’s about the experience of being in a place where nature and sport come together. The courses here are designed to complement the natural surroundings, making every round a scenic adventure. The community of golfers in Bend is welcoming and inclusive, providing a supportive environment for both beginners and seasoned players. Whether you’re looking to improve your game or simply enjoy a day out on the greens, Bend’s golf courses offer an unparalleled experience.
River’s Edge Golf Course
River’s Edge Golf Course is one of Bend’s most popular courses, known for its panoramic views and challenging terrain. Nestled along the Deschutes River, this course provides a mix of hilly landscapes and flat fairways. The course’s signature hole, the 16th, offers an impressive view of the city and is a must-play for any visiting golfer. The course layout requires strategic play, with several doglegs and elevation changes that challenge golfers to think creatively about each shot.
Apart from its challenging holes, River’s Edge is also praised for its commitment to maintaining pristine conditions throughout the year. The greens are fast and true, making it a favorite among serious golfers who appreciate a well-kept course. The course also offers excellent facilities, including a driving range and a clubhouse with a restaurant, providing everything you need for a complete golfing experience. Whether you’re there to conquer its challenges or simply enjoy the scenery, River’s Edge promises an unforgettable round.
Eagle Crest Resort: A Golfer’s Paradise
Eagle Crest Resort is a golfer’s paradise, offering three distinctive courses: The Challenge Course, The Ridge Course, and The Resort Course. Each one is designed to test your skills and provide a memorable golfing experience. The resort’s variety ensures that golfers of all levels can find a course that matches their ability and desired level of challenge. Set in the high desert of Central Oregon, the courses provide stunning views and a unique golfing environment.
Eagle Crest is more than just a place to play golf; it’s a destination that offers a complete resort experience. The resort features luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a range of recreational activities, making it an ideal getaway for both golfers and non-golfers alike. The courses are complemented by top-notch practice facilities and a professional staff dedicated to providing an exceptional experience. Whether you’re there for a weekend or an extended stay, Eagle Crest is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Eagle Crest Resort – The Challenge Course
The Challenge Course is aptly named, as it offers a tough but rewarding round of golf. With narrow fairways and strategically placed hazards, this course demands precision and strategy. It’s perfect for golfers looking to test their mettle against a formidable layout. The course’s design incorporates the natural desert landscape, adding an extra layer of difficulty and beauty to the game.
Golfers who take on The Challenge Course must be prepared for a strategic round, where careful shot selection is key to scoring well. The course is known for its fast greens and well-placed bunkers that can quickly turn a good round into a challenging one. Despite its difficulty, the course is fair and rewarding, offering golfers a true test of their skills. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just love a good challenge, The Challenge Course provides an exhilarating experience.
Eagle Crest Resort – The Ridge Course
The Ridge Course at Eagle Crest Resort offers a slightly more forgiving experience while still presenting a worthwhile challenge. The course is beautifully integrated into the natural landscape, offering sweeping views and well-manicured greens. The Ridge is a favorite for those who want a challenging yet scenic round. Its layout is designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels, making it a popular choice for groups with mixed abilities.
The Ridge Course is known for its wide fairways and large greens, allowing golfers to play with confidence. However, it still requires strategic play, with several holes featuring water hazards and tricky doglegs. The course’s natural beauty, with its stunning vistas and diverse wildlife, adds to the overall experience, making it a pleasure to play. After your round, you can relax at the clubhouse, which offers excellent amenities and a welcoming atmosphere.
Eagle Crest Resort – The Resort Course
For a more leisurely round, The Resort Course is ideal. It offers a relaxed pace of play and is great for golfers of all abilities. The course is designed to be enjoyable without being overly challenging, making it a perfect option for a casual game with friends or family. The Resort Course is characterized by its scenic beauty and user-friendly design, which encourages a fun and stress-free golfing experience.
The course features wide fairways and minimal hazards, allowing players to focus on enjoying the game and the surrounding scenery. It’s an ideal choice for beginners or those looking to refine their skills in a relaxed setting. The Resort Course also provides excellent facilities, including a pro shop and dining options, ensuring you have everything you need for a complete day of golfing. Whether you’re playing a round with family or introducing someone new to the game, The Resort Course offers a welcoming and enjoyable environment.
Lost Tracks Golf Club
Lost Tracks Golf Club is a course that combines history with the art of golf. Named for the abandoned railway tracks that once ran through the property, this course offers a unique and historical golfing experience. The course features a wide variety of holes, each offering its own set of challenges. Lost Tracks is a must-visit for those who appreciate a course with character and charm.
The course’s design incorporates several historical elements, with old railway cars and tracks adding to the unique atmosphere. Each hole is thoughtfully designed to offer a mix of challenges, from water hazards to strategically placed bunkers. The course’s lush fairways and pristine greens are meticulously maintained, providing a top-notch golfing experience. Lost Tracks also hosts numerous events and tournaments, making it a lively hub for golf enthusiasts in the region.
Meadow Lakes Golf Course
Meadow Lakes Golf Course is a public course that combines affordability with quality. Known for its environmentally friendly practices, Meadow Lakes is a great choice for eco-conscious golfers. The course is well-maintained and offers a variety of holes that cater to all skill levels. It’s a great place to enjoy a round while supporting sustainable practices.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Meadow Lakes offers a welcoming atmosphere and a strong sense of community. The course hosts various leagues and events, encouraging golfers of all ages and abilities to participate and enjoy the sport. The layout is designed to be both challenging and enjoyable, with a mix of open fairways and strategic hazards. Meadow Lakes also features practice facilities and a pro shop, ensuring you have everything you need for a great day on the course.
Pronghorn Club – Nicklaus Signature Course
The Pronghorn Club’s Nicklaus Signature Course is a true masterpiece. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, this course offers a luxurious golfing experience with world-class amenities. The course is set against the backdrop of the Cascade Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a challenging layout. It’s a must-play for any serious golfer visiting Bend.
The Nicklaus Signature Course is renowned for its meticulous design, which incorporates natural elements to create a challenging yet fair test of golf. Each hole is crafted with precision, offering a mix of risk and reward that keeps golfers engaged throughout the round. The course’s stunning scenery and immaculate conditions make it a favorite among those seeking a premium golfing experience. In addition to the exceptional course, Pronghorn Club offers luxurious amenities, including fine dining and spa services, making it a complete destination for relaxation and recreation.
Conclusion
Bend, Oregon, is truly a golfer’s dream destination, offering a variety of courses that cater to all skill levels and preferences. From the relaxing environment of The Old Back Nine at Mountain High to the challenging terrain of the Pronghorn Club, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, don’t miss the chance to tee off at some of the best golf courses Bend has to offer. Enjoy the game and the beautiful scenery that only Central Oregon can provide. The region’s golf courses not only provide a place to play but also offer an opportunity to connect with nature and the community, making Bend a must-visit destination for any golf enthusiast.