Pros:
Amazingly laid out.
Long and fair. Forgiving in spots - Doesn't even feel overtly punitive unless far off course.
Great differentiation between pro and amateur positions. Both that the option exists and that each are pretty easy and pretty hard respectively.
Some targets are so beautifully positioned amongst the majesty of Estacada you want to cry.
"So Dang Far From Portland"? Uhh, no. Its like 45 minutes. And 100% worth it. Which is a better use of time - gorgeous drive past paradise-y digs or waiting for ten groups in front of you every hole at Pier?
Cons:
Baskets suck. I'm sorry, they are terrible and need to be taken out. Makes you putt better, obviously, but takes away from such an otherwise (mostly) flawless course.
Lots of douchebags on the weekends and holidays you may as well just stay away (unless you are a serious morning person). Many families, and casuals, too, which are generally respectful but clueless. Again, douchebags drinking and littering the place up bothers me but its only minimal.
Also the layout is horribly confusing - I still get lost out there. Can't they throw up a "->" here and there? I've had deja-vu multiple times replaying holes mistakenly.
Other Thoughts:
Great course. Make the trip if you're in Portland.
But I don't know if I'd say best in the Pacific Northwest necessarily.