A Locals Guide to Golfing in Bend
Central Oregon is known for its gorgeous weather and sunny days. Bend, Oregon, the most populous city in the region, sits on the border of the Deschutes National Forest and the expansive high desert, at the base of the Cascade Mountains. With so much sunshine and such a varied landscape, golf near Bend has become a nationally recognized activity, featuring nearly 30 courses of all shapes and sizes, for all skill levels within 30 miles of Bend.
River’s Edge Golf Course
River’s Edge is a unique course in Central Oregon, in that it is open year round. Located in northwest Bend, just east of Awbrey Butte, River’s Edge is a public par-72,18-hole course with incredible views of the Cascade peaks, like Mount Jefferson and Mount Hood. The course itself is surrounded by an old juniper forest and showcases a waterfall on hole six. The course’s difficulty is moderate, with two challenging holes. Tee times can be reserved from 9 a.m. to around 4 p.m.
Tetherow Golf Resort
Consistently named a Top 100 course in the nation by Golf Digest, Tetherow boasts an 18-hole championship semi-private course. The distinctive layout was designed by David McLay Kidd, the award-winning architect of Bandon Dunes on the Oregon coast and Castle Course in Scotland. Resort members get first priority with tee times, but non-members can schedule a tee time from 10:40 a.m. to 12:50 p.m. and again after 2 p.m. The course is a par-72, and features varied terrain, granting expansive high desert views and fun times cruising on the resort’s golfboards.
Golf at Pronghorn Resort
Pronghorn boasts two nationally acclaimed courses that are perfect for all skill levels; the Jack Nicklaus Course, which is ranked #36 on Golf Digest’s list of “America’s greatest public courses” and the Tom Fazio Course. Located about 30 minutes northeast of Bend, both Pronghorn golf courses are surrounded by juniper trees, water features and volcanic formations. Tee times are available for members and non-members from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m..
Bend Golf and Country Club
The local host of several major competitions including the Oregon Open and the Northwest Open, Bend Golf and Country Club is a fully private golf club where its members can get away from it all. The 18-hole course is perfect for golfers with some experience under their belt. The course feels isolated and tranquil, completely surrounded by trees, grass, water and blooming lavender. Many members of the club play the course every day. Located on a secluded property in southeast Bend, this course is perfect for those who want to find peace and quiet without leaving town.
Widgi Creek Golf Club
Since their opening in the mid 90s, Widgi Creek Golf Club has garnered years of praise and dozens of “best of” awards from local publications. This is a semi-private course for members, and those who hold a golf pass or are the guest of a member. The course is located near Bend just down the Cascade Lakes Highway, the same road that leads to Mt. Bachelor. The course is great for all skill levels, and non-members can reserve a tee time during regular operating hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while members get priority.
Lost Tracks Golf Club
Lost Tracks is a public golf club with a membership program designed to benefit golfers who prefer to golf more regularly, or to take part in local tournaments and competitions. This is an 18-hole, par-72 course that features a well-kept green with views of the nearby Cascade Mountains, along with plenty of old juniper trees for some extra shade during the hot summer months. Tee times here become available at 10 a.m. and are first-come, first-served. The course features holes of varied difficulty, perfect for golfers of all skill levels.
Golf at Brasada Ranch
Just 30 minutes northeast of Bend, Brasada Ranch offers a semi-private course reserved for members, member guests and resort guests. The course is good for all skill levels, and junior golfers (under 18) golf for free with a paying adult after 3 p.m. The course highlights the surrounding high desert landscape and perches golfers atop hills that offer panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains. Members shouldn’t miss out on Brasada’s personalized golf instruction courses, given by resident golf pros.
Old Back Nine Golf Course
A more unique stop on this list, Old Back Nine Golf Course is a 9-hole, fully public course that is located off of China Hat Road in southeast Bend. This expertly maintained course is designed to accommodate all skill levels and create an active playstyle that is conducive to the active Bend lifestyle. For guests looking to become members, this is one of the most affordable options available. Nestled between a mature pine forest and the Mountain High Neighborhood, this course is great for those looking to stay close to town.
Awbrey Glen Golf Club
Whether guests are looking for a relaxing round of golf, or if they’re looking to break their par score, Awbrey Glen is great for all playstyles and skill levels. The 18-hole private course designed by Bunny Mason offers picturesque views of the high desert landscape, dotted with trees and spectacular rock outcroppings. The course is located on the west end of Bend, just north of Central Oregon Community College. Membership is required to play.
Outside Bend
Outside town, both Black Butte Ranch in Sisters and Eagle Crest Resort outside of Redmond offer world class golf just a short drive from Bend. Enjoy these and other Central Oregon resorts for their golf, and other amenities like fine dining, spa treatments, fitness centers and more.
Can’t decide where to start? Check out the Central Oregon Golf Trail for a DIY tour of the best courses around. Don’t forget to enjoy the City of Bend! Bend is home to an amazing restaurant scene, with some of the best restaurants in town earning praise from around the country.