North Yarmouth, ME

Bittersweet Ridge - Sweetside

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3.795(based on 12 reviews)
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Bittersweet Ridge - Sweetside reviews

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0 0
Dwalrus
Experience: 3 played 3 reviews
3.50 star(s)

2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Apr 8, 2021 Played the course:once

Pros:

1 of 2 courses on site, the shorter and more technical of the two. Numerous ace runs as well as some fun with elevation and technical wooded areas.

Cons:

Really nothing negative to note.

Other Thoughts:

A very fun time, great pro shop, and opportunities for variety of course depending on what you're looking for. The course local Bob the cat was a pleasure to meet as well!
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2 1
slippingdiscs
Experience: 27 played 27 reviews
4.00 star(s)

Sweet Course 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Sep 11, 2020 Played the course:once

Pros:

Well-maintained
Pro shop
Wooded holes
Nice benches
Generous pars

Cons:

Bad COVID procedures

Other Thoughts:

This is a lovely course and one of the best maintained I've play. Mostly wooded holes make for some challenging holes. It's fun for beginner to intermediate players because the pars are generous. This is the shorter of 2 courses here. The only con is that no one in the pro shop was wearing masks. Other courses in the area require masks.
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1 3
ahb37
Experience: 1 played 1 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Technical and Fun 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Aug 19, 2020 Played the course:once

Pros:

Very fun technical wooded course. Only a few straightforward drives and approaches so while the headline distance of ~5,000 feet seems short, you will be thinking carefully about every shot. Typical hole is 230 feet with multiple lines that force you to hit 20 foot gaps 150 feet down the fairway. Many tee shots I look forward to coming back and throwing again

Cons:

Nothing really of note here. In general I would say that it favors the RHBH a bit

Other Thoughts:

Gentlemen running the pro shop was super nice and helpful
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7 0
bjreagh
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 28.2 years 353 played 321 reviews
3.50 star(s)

2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Jul 5, 2019 Played the course:once

Pros:

1 of 2 18-hole courses on site. South (Sweetside) is the more "normal" course here, which I really enjoyed playing and had a lot of fun from beginning to end. It is designed to be enjoyed by players of all skill levels (in contrast to the North course which falls into the extreme category). Sweetside is the shorter and easier option here. It also has a good deal of elevation, used effectively, on some holes. Good hole design and variety- flat/up/down + mostly woods of varying density. I also thought the course looked way better in person than depicted in the pics currently on DGCR that are from when the course was brand new.

Played in midsummer and the course was clean and well-maintained. Wooded fairways were broken in and clear, grass fairways were neatly mowed. I liked that the optimal lines from the tee were clear and some holes offered multiple lines.

All the essential extras were present and in good shape: tees, baskets, signs. Navigation was easy.

One of the most surprising this about this place was the clubhouse and the amazing selection of discs offered. There was a large inventory of most major companies- (2nd best selection I encountered on my MA/ME trip--- Marshall St. is hard to beat, but Bittersweet beats Sabbatus since they primarily only sell 1 brand).

Very cool vibe here also. The pro shop worker was very welcoming and friendly. Other players we encountered were kind. There was a generous practice area containing multiple baskets. Lots of chairs and covered picnic tables provided for relaxing and eating before/between/after rounds. Parking area was huge.

Cons:

Nothing really in regards to the course- other than maybe it lacks a bit in overall length/hole length variety. A top tier course?- I don't think so, but it is really good and fun and enjoyable!

The only con I have for the complex as a whole is the other course- which is a sharp contrast in difficulty, length, and has extreme elevation. It was also going through a slight redesign when I played, so I hesitate to give it its own review, but I have to mention it here in comparison to the other Maine multi-course complexes. Some of them have multiple courses more close in difficulty level (Akers, Sabbatus) and accessible to a wider range of players. Where other places take the approach of having an average level course paired with a really hard course (Bittersweet, Augusta, Pineland) where it could be a deterrent to play there for those less skilled or less physically or mentally prepared. I don't know which is better, just pointing out that to "get my moneys worth" and looking to play as many new holes/courses as possible in a week, I tended to avoid the extremes (though I did play and survive the North course). If you want an ultimate challenge and then a chance to get back to reality, then playing both courses here fits the bill.

Other Thoughts:

It is pay to play, which is the norm in this part of the country. Maine is a great place to play disc golf, and Bittersweet is a major contributor to the disc golf scene up here.
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5 0
markmcc
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 12.5 years 278 played 254 reviews
3.50 star(s)

The Sweetside 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:May 9, 2019 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

This is the easier of the pair of courses at Bittersweet Ridge, but it is far from a pushover. While the hole distances are modest, averaging 261' over the 18 holes, the trees and elevation make for a technical course.

This is a course where a clean drive will often net you an easy look at birdie, but just as often that "so close" drive will kick a tree and send you off to hope for par.

There are plenty of straight, tunnel shots along with curving fairways and the occasional short dogleg. Being able to throw BH/FH is a big help as holes play both to the right and left. Many holes offer dual fairways to give you the choice.

Elevation is a key component here, with a couple of steeply downhill holes, a couple more steeply uphill, and a few over a valley or rise to (sometimes) hidden pins. It is great to watch your putter or midrange fly down, down, down on a couple of the holes. Several baskets are set on steep enough slopes that you have to consider rollaways before running that long putt.

Level, textured concrete teepads with effective signage on every hole. Innova DISCatcher baskets show up well in the shadowy Maine woods. Benches and trash cans abound.

Navigation was very good, with the course returning to near the parking area at basket 9.

Cons:

While there is a fine variety of short woods holes, the course is just that. Short and wooded. So no open, or even partially open holes.

Ground can be pretty busy with roots and fallen limbs. Ground play for landing discs can be erratic, and walking in some areas requires that you pay close attention to avoid a trip.

The course can be busy, but locals are friendly. I got behind one pair that let me play through as soon as I caught them.

Some areas can be pretty mushy and muddy depending on the time of year and recent weather.

Other Thoughts:

P2P course. $7 for a single round. I think that you can pay a bit more for all day if you want.

Great clubhouse/store with big screen television usually showing DG footage, along with a large assortment of discs, bags, shirts, etc. Huge gravel parking lot and a warmup area with several different brands of baskets to try.

The course now appears to be named "Sweetside" rather than the South Course.
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5 0
Hector Chain
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 16.4 years 222 played 191 reviews
3.50 star(s)

2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Oct 16, 2016 Played the course:once

Pros:

This is one of those rare courses that is accessible enough for rec players to enjoy but well designed to teach them about lines. The design felt Houck-ian with multiple lines on nearly every hole. I stood on the tee pad for at least half the holes wondering which route I wanted to take. Doing this design well is more than just giving options; it's about risk/reward. Hole 8 has a tight RHBH line straight at the basket up a steep hill with a more generous turnover route. Hole 1 has a split fairway that reminds me of a couple holes at Selah Ranch (not quite that beautiful, but still) where the righthand route gives you a better look at a birdie.

Elevation is not nearly as dramatic as on the North course, but it is used very well on in the latter half of the course with 5 or so big rolling hills.

While all holes are at least lightly wooded, there is a good mix of tighter and more open looks. Hole 10 is a fun hole where you can rip a big drive before the fairway narrows a bit and crests a hill. Placement is important, but you won't get knocked down by an early tree.

Tee pads are brick and look nice. Navigation was very easy.

Cons:

Advanced players may find the challenge a bit lacking, although I wouldn't characterize the course as easy. The length of the holes is significantly shorter than the North course.

It wasn't packed when I played, but there were 7-8 groups on the course compared to the virtually empty North course.

This doesn't factor into my rating, but I wish so many of the Maine courses didn't ban dogs.

Other Thoughts:

The greater Portland (Maine) area is an embarrassment of riches. You're hard pressed to find any course that isn't worth your time. I'm loving exploring this area.
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0 2
Circle2
Experience: 16 played 1 reviews
4.00 star(s)

Great Course, Great People 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Jul 29, 2015 Played the course:5+ times

Pros:

This is a fun "ace run" type course. Most of the holes can be aced (if not all). The owner Bill is a great guy and I really enjoyed hanging out with him and the regulars. I visited Portland for a conference and planned on visiting a few courses in the area. However, I had so much fun playing this course, I didn't make it to some of the other great courses nearby.

Cons:

Some roots still need pulling. The course lacks a longer hole that challenges your arm. I can tell the 2nd course will be a nice compliment to this short track.

Other Thoughts:

I love disc golf because you can go anywhere to play and make some good friends. Bittersweet is definitely one of those places. If you find yourself within 50 miles of this place, do stop by.
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1 6
Jmewhite1
Experience: 24 played 13 reviews
5.00 star(s)

Great Location, Great Owners 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 8, 2015 Played the course:5+ times

Pros:

This course is perfectly Located between Portland and L/A in North Yarmouth. It offers rolling hills and lots of shade. Very well maintained and well marked. One of my favorite courses in the State. This course is constantly being improved upon.

Cons:

Not many cons for this place...

Other Thoughts:

This course is complemented well with the new BSR north course which offers a much more challenging run.
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4 2
Discobedience
Experience: 15.3 years 89 played 12 reviews
4.00 star(s)

Premiere Maine Disc Golf Location 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Aug 24, 2014 Played the course:5+ times

Pros:

Bittersweet Ridge is my favorite course in the state of Maine. Between the player experience, the staff and the course itself, there is no other place I would rather toss my discs. Currently BSR has 1 fully completed course with one more nearing completion. There is a fully stocked clubhouse lined with discs and extras as well as hydration and sustenance for the course.

The original course plays great with a borderline pitch and putt on the front 9 followed up by a challenging and creative back 9. When the course was designed they managed to capture the vast majority of what you would look for in a course. You get a variety of shots; long and short, up and down, hyzer and anhyzer.

There are few times you step up to a tee and feel like you've played a similar hole. I'm not suggesting that you need a stuffed bag to the navigate the course, rather a good handle on the few discs you will need to be successful. On any given day, your higher level players are capable of shooting a 10 down or the next round the course might bite you for a couple over.

The community at Bittersweet is also a huge pro. The course is always busy, but not too busy to be enjoyable. I never have to make plans to meet a friend there as there is always someone pleasant kicking around to play a round with. Bittersweet plays doubles on Thursdays nights and will occasionally host a tournament or charity event.

Cons:

Honestly, there are very few things that I would consider a con at Bittersweet. As mentioned in the upper section the front 9 can play a little short, but on the other side of that coin, it provides plenty of ace run opportunities. Out of 18 holes I would only call 2 of them desperately easy birdies. Keep your eyes open while walking around the course as the roots can seemingly jump up and grab you by the foot. Not only do they trip you up occasionally, they most certainly stop skipping discs from advancing towards the basket.

Other Thoughts:

If you're going to play golf in Maine, you better make sure this is one of the stops on your list. As the second course is just months from being playable we are all looking forward to Bittersweet being one of the best disc golf destinations in New England.
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5 0
reposado
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 13.3 years 278 played 276 reviews
3.50 star(s)

2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:May 25, 2014 Played the course:once

Pros:

For someone who grew up in these parts, Bittersweet is like playing in your backyard. If your backyard had a sweet disc golf course in it. The layout is on the short side but theirs is quite a bit of elevation and it weaves nicely through the trees. Honestly, I had this one pegged as a 3.0 until the stretch from 12 to 16. The holes get a bit longer and the elevation increases mightily. Overall, it's got a cool vibe with a decent amount of variety and elevation all over the course. The fairways are wooded but are typically very generous. A slightly above average course with one stretch approaching greatness.

Bittersweet does a nice job of catering to different skill levels. Mid-level players will be the most at home here but I can't imagine newer players being turned off. There is even a sign that suggests they skip a few of the tougher holes and a path provides an easy way for them to do so.

Aesthetically, the course is well on the way to gorgeous. Step up to the tee on 9, where the fairway drops off dramatically in front of you. Peer through the gap in the trees just in front of you and check out the gracefully curving hillside, begging you to throw a sweeping hyzer that bends with the hill and around the protrusion of vegetation. When you turn the bend on 12 and seethe basket high on the hill, it's a real moment. Or stand on 13 and ponder where to throw a completely blind shot down a perilous slope.

Cons:

It definitely needs more wearing in. Occasionally, the distinction between fairway and rough is minimal. There are places where alternate routes are available that seem not to be intended. Some of that is places where some more needs to grow in.

While the entire course looks great, and there are some nice basket placements, the course doesn't bring much challenge for the first half of the round. A lot of open looks at the basket and fairways are a bit on the wide side. Definitely not a course that really considers par or landing zones.
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0 7
Chris Main
Experience: 11.3 years 14 played 6 reviews
3.00 star(s)

Potential, lots of it. 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Apr 14, 2014 Played the course:once

Pros:

Friendly owner and regular players, always a plus. Course layout does not require you to be a particularly long driver. Tees are good. Some of the holes are scenic and give you and excellent vantage to watch your shots. Worth the trip.

Cons:

Overall course design favors backhanders. Here is another Maine course that will not be friendly to beginners; no forward tees & way too many trees (discouraging to new players, they don't return). Also, many 'pro' level players were present the day I played, and while it was awesome to watch them chew up the course, they were not all that friendly to the average player that I am (rand dubs).

Other Thoughts:

Another course being built as we speak, with a design philosophy that should result in a longer more open course, good things.
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2 1
ErockTads
Experience: 12 years 2 played 2 reviews
3.50 star(s)

Simple pleasure 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Sep 21, 2013 Played the course:once

Pros:

Great new course for the area. There is nice tee pads and new baskets. There arent many long holes, but there are some challenging ones. The elevation gain and loss in the back 9 are very fun and provide some challenge. This being a new course to the area isnt going to receive a whole lot of traffic this year and so I will be going back as much as I can in the next few weeks.

Cons:

Its new, so there is some "breaking in" that still needs to take place. The course was well maintained, but a little more clearing of some of the stumps in the fairway would be nice. Aside from that, this is my type of rustic course. Again, not too many long holes, but it still makes for a challenging outing.

Other Thoughts:

This is a no frills operation, worth a trip if you're in the area!
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