-Variety of terrain
-Use of elevation
-Lots of "natural OB"
-Multiple tees on every hole

This course is truly awesome. Living in Columbia I've gotten to watch Harmony Bends be hewn out of the dense forest and transformed into a course that is almost surreal and getting better every time I play it. The Parks Department has been keeping it as well maintained as they can with half of the course being too sloppy for mowing equipment after any rain storm. They've put in a much needed set of stairs on hole 10 making it much safer to walk down from the tees to the fairway. Hopefully they put another set on 15 between the fairway and the top of the hill where the basket is.

Nit picking here really, the course is nearly perfect.

-Parking lot is too small
-Could use a second sign between hole 8 and nine(currently an arrow made of medium sized stones points to which trail to take to 9)
-Needs stairs up to the basket from the fairway on hole 15

Definitely worth a trip to play, but be sure to check the weather. Course can become unplayable after a sustained rain spell. There are some great photos on our club's Facebook page of two club members canoeing past hole 1's basket earlier this spring after a very rainy week.

*Epic opening and closing holes. They really are great bookends to this course. Harmony puts a great taste in your mouth initially with hole 1...and leaves you on a high with hole 18 that leaves you wanting to come back for more. Both of them are very reminiscent of Idlewild with a creek that comes into play multiple times on the same hole. Really makes for some great risk/reward shots with a variety of ways to attack them.

*The gathering area at hole one with a very well done map and circle of benches is a great place to start your round of disc golf. Many holes had benches to rest on (which you will need on this course, trust me).

*Easy to navigate with not a whole lot of unnecessary walking between holes. Very spacious concrete teepads (2-3 per hole)

*ABSOLUTELY took full advantage of the hilly terrain of the Ozarks. So many shots where you are throwing towering shots off of cliffs and likewise so many throwing back up to the top to baskets treacherously placed near the peak (death putt anyone?) Also a great mix of working in and out of the woods for some tight technical shots and some long par 5s. Harmony is an absolutely beautiful course to play...showcases the best of Missouri.

I really didn't go away from Harmony Bends with any negatives in my mind it was so good...but if I had to come up with a couple...

*Water can definitely be an issue if it rains. There are some areas that look like they can really hold some water when rain comes. Columbia had just had 2 inches of rain the night before and there was a couple places that were a bit soupy.
*While there wasn't a lot of littering on the course I am surprised that the only place there was a trashcan was hole 1. Would be nice to see a couple more (especially on such a challenging course physically where water and gatorades are a must)

*The grass was on the long side. It is a park on the outskirts of town that isn't used for anything but disc golf (to my knowledge) so it is understandable that it doesn't get as much attention as other parks...but keeping the fairways a little more manicured would be helpful.

*Not really a con (because I know the intent is to put more in and it's a new course) but there are a couple of the holes that still don't have stairs in a couple of areas where stairs really should be. I know that this will be addressed and this will no longer be a concern.

Again...I can't stress how good of a course Harmony Bends is. I have played some of the finest courses in the country. Flip, Idlewild, Selah, Rolling Ridge, etc...and this course holds it's own with all of them. John Houck has done a great job of taking a piece of land and maximizes it's potential for an incredible disc golf experience. Can't wait to see it continue to improve as they add more to this already great course. Can't wait to make the drive again to play this course.

Harmony Bends is an outsized version of an already-awesome disc golf course. Everything is exaggerated: elevation changes, tree cover density, tree cover variation, design, it's all a bit thicker, a bit longer, a bit tighter, a bit more off-center, a bit quirkier, a bit more dramatic than is seen even on great courses. The result sits atop the most consistent, engaging, challenging, and enjoyable courses I have ever played. So if you're comfortable with technical (but not brutal!) courses and a bit of a hike, feel free to consider Harmony Bends a must-play, full stop.

The elevation changes are what really make the course for me. Short technical par 3s like hole 3 become daunting tasks when played along a cliffside and approached with a steep drop-off waiting to punish long putts. Landing zones reached through tight lanes become much harder to hit when you have to navigate elevation shifts fifty plus feet in length. The natural elevation changes here are harnessed to maximize their impact on already-technical play, leading to many risk-versus-reward decisions and unique solutions no matter how experienced and capable your game is.

The terrain here is supremely varied. The front half of the course plays into thick woods as it moves up a hillside. The back half plays off this wooded hill with a dramatic downhill shot and things open up a bit; there's even a bomber hole. Tree lanes converge and widen many times, mixing up the level of technicality as the course works its way back to the parking lot. You encounter a creek a few times throughout: sometimes it's a minor consideration and sometimes it's hair-raising. While the overall level of woodedness is on the heavy side it is mixed up so much within and between holes that the course escapes feeling oppressive. Distances and par lengths are similarly well-orchestrated to keep things fresh.

The intensity of the technical play is somewhat alleviated by the three sets of tees. Though this is far from a beginner course, there are many shots here that don't punish new players. This coupled with the beautiful environment makes the course a worthwhile visit for inexperienced players even if it isn't accessible to them in its entirety.

The concrete tees are awesome. Grooming is immaculate, so much so that the chances of losing a disc to rough are very minimized. Parking is ample. Much of the course plays through the shade, providing relief even on hot summer days. Navigation is easy.

Although I am a big fan of designer John Houck's complicated par 4s and 5s I have come to accept that that feeling is not universal. If you prefer a par 54-style course emphasizing different manners of par 3s in which you're always throwing for the basket off the tee then this course may not be your thing (although it's done well enough and beautiful enough that perhaps it will convince you).

The generally technical play can certainly be a deterrent: there are lots of tight lines here, and daunting shots that require a higher-than-normal level of shot variety to attempt even from the short tees. This course can frustrate and punish, no question; I find it to be more challenging than the other Houck courses I've played at Selah and Trey ranches. My intermediate-level game didn't find it a beatdown, however.

The hillside terrain means you are in for a hike. It can be hard to match the high level of play necessary to fully engage the course as you progress through your round even if you're in good shape. This shouldn't deter anyone, but be ready to take your time and have some short breaks. Especially because there is no opportunity to refill your water or use the bathroom in the midst of your round.

As a relatively new addition to the elite disc golf courses out there I was curious how Harmony Bends would compare to the other great courses I've played like Moraine State Park, Sugaree, Selah Ranch, and Harmon Hills. Personally I thought it compares and then some: the front nine is the best stretch of nine I've ever played, scratching my very particular itch for technical and unique holes that can be played through in a variety of ways, and the full 18 count as the most consistently-awesome set of holes I have ever played. There are no throwaway holes here, nothing to just ferry you along: every hole makes an individualized contribution to the course's overall awesomeness. Exaggerated design and bold terrain make for one heck of a memorable disc golf course. Who knew?

What an incredible joy it was to experience Harmony Bends for the first time. This course is a dream come true when it comes to course design.

The course is located on a very spacious and secluded (but only just off the interstate) park that appears to be wholly dedicated to disc golf which is a huge plus for me. There is no fear of drilling a random pedestrian John Houck made incredible use of the space that was available to him. With one well-marked exception, you never feel like you are encroaching on another hole with your throws.
The layout is so varied and unique that each hole constitutes a new challenge and adventure. There truly was never a moment where I felt bored or the course felt repetitive. Houck really made tremendous use of a couple creeks. I read a few reviews before I played and couldn't understand how you could lose discs in a "few creeks" but I definitely understand now. The creeks are massive and quite intimidating. They can truly wreck your score on a hole quickly....particularly on 1 and 18.
From an amenities standpoint, the tee pads were perfect and aplenty. Large concrete tees with multiple boxes (usually 3 but sometimes 2) at each hole. The different tees present you with unique challenges depending on where you choose to tee off from. Incredible thought seemed to go into each location.
There were occasionally decent walks between holes but the signage was such, that you never felt lost or confused which is a big deal to me when I play a course for the first time.
The tee signs were flawless in that they were accurate with the distances and foliage, but also very clear and easy to get a feel of the hole without ever having to walk ahead.
The baskets were in great shape and grabbed the discs really well.
The course is a real workout due to its wildly varied terrain from hole to hole. HB really makes great use of the land they have showcasing every type of shot imaginable but also taking you up huge will and down steep drops but still allowing some great but technical bomber opportunities. I needed to be able to use every throw I have and then some to navigate the endless shot possibilities and challenges each hole posses.
An earlier review mentioned the fact that the course can be fun for almost every skill level and I found that to be very true. I am a recreational player and while there were times that my butt was kicked by it, I never stopped having a blast. I will say that being out of shape and it being 95 degrees didn't do me any favors, but that isn't the courses fault.
IT'S FREE!!! This truly feels like one of those special private courses that someone pours their heart and soul into....but its a city park. Pretty awesome.

I am going to be nit picky, and these obviously didn't affect my score but I have a few things to note:

The only trashcan/restroom options are at the parking lot so plan accordingly.
It didn't seem like hole 9 finished near the parking lot so be ready to play 18 if you are out there (I reserve the right to be wrong about this because I really didn't explore after 9 to be sure)
A few times the walking conditions were dicey. Columbia had been dumped on the night before which made it quite slippery and one hole (I think 17) has a STEEP incline which was tough to traverse with the slippery mud and my out of shape carcass.
The grass clearly hadn't been mowed in a while, but it is a massive course and I would guess that maintenance of the grass will always be hit and miss. That being said, I was in the weeds/woods plenty, but didn't get a single tick.

It really makes me proud that Missouri has a course it can really hang it's hat on. Something that is truly special for people to travel to. This really is a destination course that is not to be missed if you are anywhere close to here. As the course continues to be developed with additional bridges and other amenities it will only get that much better. As it stands, it is a phenomenal course that should be experienced by any and all DGers.

B E A Utiful scenery. Ace holes as well as some tough par 5's. You will need discs that roll, discs that skip, discs that float, and discs you can thread a needle with. You will walk away asking if you have time to give it another go so you can continue the fun.

This being a designer's dream come true, that other courses aren't as fun to play. Still in the developing phases, as the City is on schedule to add more steps, another course, and probably restrooms.

It's a long hike, so bring the essentials, especially if there is moisture in the forecast. Played before grooming, it can be thick, so just throw where you wont lose a disc. After groomed, like before or after a tournament, majestic. Always bring tick repellent as this course is in the wilderness, and no one wants a parasite on them. If you aren't throwing aerobie, you may want to bring a disc grabber as there are several holes with water hazards. My personal favorite is to come out before sun up, no waiting, see the animals wake up, so beautiful. God's glory to be shared!

• Variety: This course is complete. Never have I played a course that offers the range of distances Harmony Bends does... from the red tees alone. Some holes are pretty well wooded, some are fairly open, and all of them give you something to think about. All sorts of fairway shapes. Several holes have complex shapes requiring one or more shots to hit landing spots to set up a good look at the pin. Thirteen holes have a longer, "gold" pin placement, but they weren't in when I played. Pretty sure they're available for tourneys at the TD's discretion.

• Challenge: I can't stress this point enough; SUPERBLY DESIGNED TO APPROPRIATELY CHALLENGE ALL SKILL LEVELS from REC to PRO. That said, I don't think this course is well -suited to the truly novice player.
No fairways present one specific line and dare you to execute it. Rather, they present a few different lines, and test your ability to select a specific line, commit to that line, and then pull off that shot. While many holes are long, they're not simply about how far you can throw. You need to hit landing spots to set up the next shot if you want to be in position for a good approach or a clean putt. Every single hole presents lines that are challenging, yet completely fair. Doles out punishment for missing shots without doing so harshly. There's nothing you shouldn't be able to execute... the only question is, "Will you?"
Fairways with water in play require good decision making and proper execution... but that's the point, isn't it?

• Elevation: Tons of it. Expertly used in every conceiveable way; uphill, downhill, rollaways, gulleys. Many holes play much longer/shorter than posted.

• Use of Natural Elements: HB brings the property's natural elements into play better than any other course I've played. Water in play on several holes (multiple times on some holes). Deeper in some spots than others, the water doesn't always present a risk of disc loss, but certainly can. Elevation comes into play on the majority of holes. Wonderfully wooded, but not overwhelmingly so... never feels pinball-like. Wind shouldn't be a factor on most holes, but there are definitely a few where it can make or break you if rears its head.

• Aesthethics: Absolutely gorgeous. The most naturally beautiful course of the 200+ I've played to date. The kind of setting you wish for on a DG road trip.

• Equipment: Top notch all the way around. Grippy, concrete tees are large enough to park a car on. Tee signs at every pad show all tee locations and distances, along with multiple routes to the pin and direction to the next tee to get you headed to the next hole. Next Tee signs where necessary. There's even a sign warning you that you're about to cross #14's fairway as you walk from #12 to #13. Yellow DisCatchers catch well and scream "I'm over here!"

• Memorable/Signature holes: Where do I start?

#1: One of the best opening holes anywhere; beautiful, challenging, inviting. Lets you know right off the bat that you're in for a real treat.

#10: If you don't smile from ear to ear when you look out from this tee, my condolences. Perhaps the best hole I've ever played. You really need to stand at all 3 tees to appreciate just what Mr. Houck has done here. The red tee would be a signature hole by itself. Go back to the white, and it's even better. Go to the blue and it brings and entirely new line into play, while still allowing the same line available from the red & white tees. If you only throw one disc from these tees, please sell your bag to someone who appreciates this sport. But the hole requires more than a great tee shot - you need to be well-positioned at the far end of the fairway for a good approach shot if you want a clean putt.

#18: Another stunner with inviting lines from all 3 tees. Brings the winding creek into play on multiple shots. A magnificent finishing hole, where a 2 stroke lead isn't necessarily safe.

Many of the front 9 would stand out on other courses, but the three above struck me as truly spectacular.

• Appears to be disc golf exclusive (that said, I couldn't blame hikers for taking a stroll through this place... it's that pretty).

• Fun Factor: My Fun-O-Meter was pegged most of the front 9, then overloaded at #10.

• Reasonably well shaded on a hot day. Still it's a long trek, so bring water and snacks as you would for any long course.

• Maintenance-everything was wonderful for my round, but I imagine HB needs frequent mowing, and can hide even good shots if it hasn't been done in a while.

Only my last con speaks to the DG itself, the rest are info for travelling players.

• Not the easiest to traverse: Beautiful as HB is, it's not for everyone. This course requires you to be more sure-footed than most. Most of the creek crossings consist of boulders and large rocks. A few fairways are very steep (and particularly slippery when wet)... at least one going uphill, and another going down.

• It's a hike. HB's a big, sprawling course that takes time to get around and can't be rushed (but why would you want to)? Factor in the terrain and it's probably not the best choice for your 2nd or 3rd round of the day. Besides, you'll want it to be your 1st!

• Cart friendly: Decidely not. It's simply not feasible with this terrain - can't imagine even trying it. See 1st con.

• Flooding/Drainage: HB lies in a flood plain. This two edged sword gives the course much of its character, but also means it's going to be swampy for a day or two after it rains. If playing through a swamp isn't for you, don't come shortly after a heavy rain. That said, it does seem to drain better than other courses I've seen in flood plains (see other thoughts).

• Obviously, mosquitos are likely to be an issue in a flood plain ...plan accordingly.

• Tee markers don't indicate the color tee you're at. Sometimes it's obvious, sometimes it's not... had to check to see where we were a few times.

• Long holes mean walking a few fairways to figure out what you want to do off some tees.

• A few of the back 9 seem rather ordinary. Not bad holes, per se, but they simply don't meet the bar set by #'s 1- 11, hence they stand out as particularly lame in contrast because of how strong the rest of the course "brings it."

Playing this course was a complete a joy. Can't tell you how many times my son & I looked out from the tee and uttered some exclamation or simply smiled like a kid opening a present. So many things gone right here that it's easy to forgive/forget a few imperfections. The outstanding holes are both, phenomenal and numerous enough to more than compensate for the few that aren't.

We probably played this course in about the worst conditions it's likely to be in. The previous day, there was a tourney where the 2nd round was cancelled due to a storm. My son and I literally played in knee high rubber galoshes... no one complained.

Located just minutes from I-70 and very close to plenty of motels and restaurants, Harmony Bends is a must play if you're going to be anywhere near Columbia with a half day to spare.

Free??? Are you kidding me??! I feel like I stole something.

Not every hole features 3 tees (some only have two). To Mr. Houck's credit, if it didn't yield a different look or line, he didn't force fit one in simply to have "3 complete sets of tees."

Let the debate begin as to whether Harmony Bends should rank in the top 10, top 5, top 25... whatever. Some will say it's the best course out there, some will say it isn't. What I can't see is how you can have that conversation without mentioning it. Not every hole is a home run (#'s 12 & 14 seem pretty ordinary), but several are Grand Slams, and Mr. Houck hit for the cycle on this one.

By the time I'd reached #9, I'd have given this course a 4.0, because I'd rather play the Front 9 at Harmony Bends than pretty much any other course I've rated 4.0.

All I know is this course had me smiling like hardly any other, and that's why I play... hence my 5.0. Maybe I'm smitten... but don't you wanna play a course that makes you feel that way?

Excellent signage. There is an overall map at the park entrance, and detailed maps at each tee box on each hole.

Spacious concrete tee pads. 3 at most holes, at least 2 at every hole.

Course is plenty long, and has lots of wonderful elevation changes. (4 holes where you launch your disc off good sized hills, always fun)

2 creeks on course well integrated into course design. Adds plenty of challenge especially on holes 1, 13, and definitely 18.

Multiple legitimate lines to the basket as marked on tee box signs. Fun to experiment playing a number of the holes a different way, keeps course fresh.

Course plays fair. accurate shots almost invariably rewarded, mediocre to poor shots punished accordingly.

Picturesque course, encompasses much of what makes Missouri scenic, (woods, winding creeks, variety of trees etc.)

Wonderful construction on course. a lot of resources put into course, ( i.e. steps on 18, benches on each hole made from re-purposed wood, tiered landing areas on hillside on hole 5, large boulders brought in to create 'natural creek crossings' (great money saving idea over more expensive bridges) etc.

Public course that has private feel. Park is on edge of town. walking paths rarely used. Can play a full round without seeing another non-disc golf person.

Simply a brilliant course design on a wonderful piece of land.

Course flooding. Heavy sustained rains results in course flooding. measurable rains results in soggy conditions, especially on low part of back 9 and fairway leading to basket on hole 2 which is basically then a pond.

Mowing challenges. course wetness and sheer scope of course make this part of upkeep a challenge. Can be hard to find your disc in middle of fairway on hole 13 when not mowed regularly.

Parking lot is too small, (believe plans are in place to expand parking lot)

Holes 10 and 15 could use some steps for the steep hills.

Erosion challenges.

No trash cans on course. Although I understand why, makeshift trash areas pop up on course anyway, might as well at consider placing a few receptacles in strategic locations.

Hole 18 could be considered either a pro or a con depending on how you view it. It encompasses everything you could ask for in a hole: a launch off an elevated position. length, water that comes into play, eagle opportunity (not for me), scenic etc
At the same time, the hole can be ruthless. Can lose multiple discs on the same hole, end up with a huge score. Many seem frustrated that you can't play down the left side of the creek. I wonder if this is because of walking path to the left (hardly used by anyone) . At any rate, I still like the hole, and the course was intended to test the best (not me). I simply make it a point to throw a disc I don't mind losing.

Incredible that so much time and resources were put into a public course. Don't get me wrong, I have no problem with pay to play. Played my first one in Minnesota and thoroughly enjoyed it. But there is something to be said for being able to pop over to this course any day and time to play a quick round. I like to play holes 1 though 8 and then come back to parking lot on 18 when I don't have much time.

Great fall course. Bugs disappear, less rainy part of year so course tends to be dry, hike not so exhausting when air is cool.

Brilliant course designer + great piece of land + commitment of necessary resources = True Destination Course.

-Beautiful lay out, land is dedicated to DG only
-Wasn't crowded on my visit
-Legitimate Par 4's and 5's
-Great elevation change
-Forces a variety of lines/throws
-Makes you think about your shots and place them accordingly
-Well Manicured
-Multiple concrete tee pads

-Long course, rough terrain, maybe a couple more bridges. Not necessarily a con, but could be quite strenuous to some.
-Water Hazards; really fun to play, but if a disc goes in, a lot of the time you're never seeing it again. Course can/will flood
-Backups can occur if there is a group of weaker players

I played after the river had flooded, subsequently it was very soggy and water was extremely high so it was pretty sloppy out. I really would like to get back out there when it is dry, as it was still extremely fun to play. Practice basket at the start. Parking lot right at #1. Tons of signage and maps at the start. Challenging course, but not impossible. No "lucky" holes, lines are there, you just need to nail them. Many water hazards in play on a large, quiet chunk of land, much different than the city parks im used to in STL. Rock bridges over streams and long course over varying terrain which could possibly be tiring for some players. Fantastic course Overall, i haven't played many courses outside of St. Louis, but i would bet this is one of the best in Missouri. It lives up to its claim of being a championship caliber course.

This course is by far the prettiest and most fun in Columbia, MO. There is a lot of tree coverage throughout the course and lots of elevations changes. It keeps you honest when throwing every throw since there are hazards right around the corner if you miss your mark by a few feet. By no means is it an extremely difficult course but if you make a bad throw or two, the course will make you pay. The baskets have bright yellow tops and are easy to see even at dusk. Also, this park is made for disc golf only and there isn't many random people wandering the course in the way.

UPDATE - The city has built stairs on hole 10 with the really steep hill. This is really helpful with getting down to the fairway. Hopefully they will be building a set of stairs on hole 15 as well when you go back up the hill.


The creator of this course really took time to think out how this course should flow and it couldn't be better. The back 9 is definitely harder than the front 9... which makes it sort of difficult to keep making great shots all through 18 but continues to challenge you on each throw.

I love that there are multiple tee pads at every hole, and multiple basket placements. There are also very detailed signs showing what is up ahead and also directions to the next hole at every basket.

Recently In Columbia, MO news there has been talk of the creator of harmony bends (John Houck) is going to return and create another 18 hole disc golf course with the remaining unused land. The city of Columbia will also be building a much larger parking lot (as it is needed badly) and legit bathrooms with drinking fountains. Course expansion is set for 2020.

THE BACK 9 FLOODS ALL THE TIME!!! This is definitely the worst part about this course. Since it is so close to Perche Creek (large creek/small river) around hole 11-14, if Columbia gets more than an inch of rain the back 9 is pretty much unplayable. Unless it hasn't rained for 1 week most of those holes will be swampy.

The mowing maintenence on this course is crazy and super demanding. Usually the back 9 doesn't get mowed often due to flooding/wetness issues during the spring time. Once summer hits, things start to get maintained weekly. The swampy problem gets solved somewhat during the middle of summer when it rarely rains. Hole 2 and hole 7 also have swamp problems when it rains because of their lack of grass in the fairways. The city has been working on growing grass in these areas to create less mud pits.

I love the amount of water hazards there are on this course and yet most of the water hazards allow easy disc retrieval (besides Perche Creek, never getting that one back...) Also, beware of hole 18 as I see people attempting to retrieve discs from that water hazard all the time (myself included, I've lost 3 discs there).

This isn't a course that you're going to fly through with friends, so block out a decent chunk of time to play all 18. If you play by yourself at a good pace you can get through all 18 in a little more than an hour.

This is by far the most enjoyable disc golf course that I've ever played and I'm beyond excited for the expansion to come in 2020.

-amazing property, beautiful scenery, great topography
-pronounced elevation features, woods, wide and narrow alleys, 2 creeks
-3 layouts, at least 2 concrete tees on each hole, signs at each tee
-very detailed tee signs plus directional signage throughout the course
-new discatchers in great condition
-great design, course flows well, legit par 4 and 5 holes
-the multi-shot holes are well-designed with fair landing zones and multiple routes to the basket
-great greens that incorporate the creeks and elevation
-a great challenge for any player at the appropriate tee

-the path from hole 12 to hole 13 crosses by the green for hole 14 but if you take the proper path from hole 12 you should be beyond the basket for 14
-on hole 18 the fairway on the right side of the creek is super tight, i felt like you have to go across the water. is it overly punitive for the left side of the creek to be OB?
-the parking lot is too small
-this long course can be a workout with all the steep hillsides and a round can take awhile to finish, especially if you find yourself off the fairway
-i was only here for a weekend and played the course twice after recent rain and snow. i didn't find it to be too muddy but there were lots of leaves on the ground to soak it up. the grass had been mowed fairly recently throughout the course, though other reviewers have noted long grass as an issue. maybe a local reviewer can comment.

This course is something special. I'm a big fan of John Houck's courses in general but this one is probably my favorite of the ones I've played. The piece of land the course occupies is full of all the features you want on a great disc golf course: winding creeks, steep elevation, tight woods, open meadows, and long, wide alleys. Houck crafts an exciting disc golf experience that exploits all these areas and the challenges they present, with all the usual finishing touches you would expect from a HouckDesign course.

The course features three layouts and there are at least two concrete tees on each hole. Five holes have a shared white and blue tee. Thirteen of the eighteen holes have a gold pin position for tournaments. There are detailed HouckDesign signs at each tee and there are navigational signs throughout the course as well. The discatchers are in great condition and there is a great course map at the kiosk next to the parking lot. Unfortunately, that parking lot is too small. The only other thing this course is missing is steps of some kind down the hill after the tee on hole 10 and perhaps on hole 15 going up the hill to the green. The creek crossings are manageable so long as the water level doesn't dramatically rise.

Each tee provides an appropriate challenge for its intended level. I played the red tees and the white tees (AM2 player) and enjoyed but was challenged both rounds. The par 4's and par 5's have clear and fair landing zones and usually multiple routes to the basket. They also have fair chances at birdie or even eagle on the par 5's. The design utilizes the creeks winding through fairways or next to greens, elevation off the tee and on the green, tight woods with well-defined tunnels, and long, wide tunnels (holes 11 and 12 remind me of Roy G in Austin). Hole 9 is a beast with long narrow tunnels through the woods and big elevation changes up and down along the way. Holes 3, 4, 7, and 8 are fun, shorter shots with pronounced elevation. The monster hole 18 combines the elevation, the creek, tight woods, and 870' from the blue tee for an arduous finish to the course. The tight woods on the right of the creek on the second shot really tempts you to go over the creek but it's OB on the left side of the creek so you've got to finish to the right. Makes for a really tough hole and I was just happy to finish with all my plastic.

I would drive a long way to play this course again. I drove a long way to play it the first time since I had a good friend temporarily living in Columbia but I could justify a trip back to central Missouri to come here and also hit Ozark Mountain. This course is a complete challenge and a true destination course. It has what I consider the perfect combination of my favorite elements on a disc golf course and deserves the 5 rating.


**Like this review? Hate it? Message me and let me know why! I want to make them better!**

Harmony Bends was never on my radar of must plays until I researched some of the courses on my travel route for a work trip. After researching the course and after talking to some locals in St. Louis, I was excited to see if the course lived up to the hype.

This is hands down one of the top 5 best courses I have ever played. I played the long tees and was incredibly impressed with the fair but challenging nature of every hole. Not a single hole was easy or a gimme but every hole was birdieable with precise throws.

The tee pads and tee sigs are probably the best I have ever seen. Between 2 and 5 per hole which gave a lot of options for players of various skill levels.

The fairways were well cut and didn't have too much or too little underbrush off the fairway...it really was manicured perfectly minus a few limbs I would like to have seen taken out (20 to 35 feet off the ground which makes them hard to remove).

Baskets were all level and in great shape. Greens were fair but treacherous on a few holes to add some pucker factor.

The use of rocks along holes like 1 and 18 was masterfully done. I have never seen a course that brought in so much rock for the use of transitions and aesthetics. Fantastic!

I really can't say enough about the pros of this course.

This course demands A TON of upkeep. Grass and trimming is a major undertaking. That being said, the front 9 was almost perfect. The back 9 however desperately needed mowing and trimming in several places. I threw a great tee shot on 15 that was in the middle of the fairway in 2 feet of grass that took me 20 minutes to find. Im sure the course crew has it in their schedule to get things cleaned up but it was pretty bad on several holes.

The transition that connects hole 12s basket to 13s tee pad crosses 14's fairway which is a design flaw. Holes 13 and 14 play too close to each other but they are both very pretty and solid par 3's. Its unfortunate that they basically fall on top of each other. Directional signage and yardage markers would be very helpful. Some of the par 4's and 5's are pretty long and markers every 100 feet or so would be an easy and helpful addition. The transition to hole 18 was a little confusing to a first time player.

The parking lot is very small but it looks like they can use the field for overflow/tournament parking which is great. I had to park my RV a few miles away because there was not enough room on site.

This course is a must play. It is obvious how much hard work, planning, and money went into this course to make it what it is. My hats off to the course designer and crew who designed this beast.

If you want a true measure of skill this course will challenge darn near everything you have.

This is a long course with a high par but is playable fairly quickly. I finished in under 1.5 hours playing by myself and spent over 20 minutes looking for a disc. Just over an hour for a par 68 is not too bad.

Challenging course with multiple tee pads and multiple pin placements.

Seating at the long tee of every hole. Signage was absolutely amazing, couldn't have been better. Each pad had its own sign with ideal routes to the basket. After each hole signage was placed to direct you to the next pad you want to play.

Very clean park, even though there weren't trash cans.

Be ready to hike through the course. There are multiple HUGE holes and lots of elevation change, which is fantastic for someone who loves to disc golf.

You won't be able to get a quick round in if that is something your looking for.

Course was absolutely fantastic and if you are in Columbia its a must play if you are driving through.

This course was thought out very well. First time through and it seems well played for years.
Multiple Tee pads lets anyone challenge the course. Well defined and fair fairways that ups the ante with risk reward. Pin placements that gut check you every time. and not to mention you have to cross the creeks several times.

On 18 one of the few marked OB. I think the hole would play better if both sides of the creek are considered in bounds especially since you finish on the left side of the creek. Trash cans.

This course is a must if you are in the Mid-Missouri area. It is gorgeous. You will be mentally and physically challenged as this is a very tough terrain par 68

3+ years of design and build are complete, this course is already near perfect. The length and elevation change make this course unique, all while playing through, around and over two creeks and two hills. There are 3 downhill tee shots that make you want to empty your bag. The par four's are legitimate, there are birdies available but the risk/reward has serious consequences, but even with the difficulty the course plays fair.

The only cons are the somewhat unfinished areas and projects. 2 sets of stairs that need to be put in, one after the tee on hole 10, and back up the hill on 15. There are a few areas that need some drainage ditches, and fairways that need reseeding, but when considering the amount of work that has been completed the finishing touches will make this course a guaranteed destination for disc golfers everywhere.

Harmony Bend is stellar. It had been recommended to me while playing with a local at Indian Hills South in Marshall, and I am so glad I heeded this advice.

18 holes with 2 or 3 concrete tee pads on each. All tees have terrific new signs, giving you a great picture of what to expect and strategies showing best lines and landing zones. There are also long pin placements at every hole for the gold layout. I played the blue tees, but even from the shortest red tees it is lengthy and still pretty difficult.

The land Strawn Park sits on is really scenic and has a lot to offer with diverse, challenging terrain. Harmony Creek is in play on several holes, including 1 and 18. They would be long and technical with no water in play, but the stakes are raised by crossing the creek multiple times on each. On the back 9 you will also encounter Perche Creek, featured most prominently on hole 13.

Elevation changes are also fairly common, and can be drastic. There are places that are steep and sort of rocky sometimes. I love to see this on any course, and it is masterfully utilized here. Most of the holes on the front nine have this element, usually with significant rises or drops, and sometimes both.

I would have a very hard time selecting a favorite hole, there are so many great ones. The first and last holes are both pretty epic. The shortest holes 8 and 3 are very cool, with interesting contours and many trees. 4, 5, 7, and 10 have great elevation features, along with a few others. 9 is just a roller coaster ride.

Not repetitive from one hole to the next, and even the simpler holes are pretty good. If there are one or two average holes, I would say they are 6 and 14, but even they are pretty decent.

There were a few muddy patches when I made my trip to Columbia, but nothing too bad. Still very playable, just a little squishy here or there.

I would not take any newbies here to play. While it is not hard to appreciate the natural beauty, it is very long and easy to lose a disc or two if you have lack control. The water and trees could lead to a lot of frustration, even for more experienced players.

I lost my favorite driver on hole 7. I think it ricocheted to the right and nestled in the trees under leaves, but I didn't get a good spot on it. It is a champion Orc, neon yellow with a worn blue stamp, and my number was in the rim. I gave a reward to get it back once and would do it again.

I liked the way this course was set up. It did have a few narrow lanes at times, but usually the fairways were cut wide enough to at least offer a fair chance at a good drive or approach. Technical, but not do or die if you are slightly off line once in a while.

It is a par 68, nearly 9000' from the blue boxes. I ended the round at 72, with 5 birdies. I took penalties on two holes after losing discs, but I was able to find one of them after the round. Took a couple of double bogeys, as well as one triple bogey. Could have been under par if I were able to clean up those errors. I did shoot par on the back nine, which is a bit flatter and more open.

Mr. Houck has become very good at what he does, and I look forward to playing more of his designs in the near future. I would say Harmony Bends is my favorite of his so far, and also the best in Missouri out of the dozen or so I've been to.

If you have played WR Jackson at the IDGC, or Hobbs Farm Park in Carrolton GA, they compare nicely to this course. Par in the upper sixties, well thought out and fun to play, and generally awesome.

Of nearly 300 courses I have played, this one is probably top 5. Definitely top 5%. Truly worth a trip if you're way into disc golf. A must play.

Excellent course design that includes challenging elevation, enjoyable lines and tricky approaches.

The variety of holes is befitting of a championship-level course. Each hole features demanding challenges - each hole is not only different, but on many holes, there are multiple options of lines to choose en route to the basket. Choose wisely as accuracy is paramount to scoring well.

In addition, the amenities are incredible - each hole features beautiful signage at each of three enormous teepads. A detailed "Next Tee" sign is near each basket. A practice basket in a wide open area is available near the parking lot.

The attractive menagerie of streams, rocks and trees means the course is eye-catching regardless of the season.

Extremely muddy in spots. If rain or snow has fallen recently, you'll likely find your shoes caked with slippery, sticky mud as you traverse the course.

Hole 18 is a threat to ruin your round with its proximity to the creek. While I can appreciate a challenging hole, one stray branch can result in dunking your disc into the water, and with the slippery and steep banks, retrieving your disc will require some effort.

No trash cans on the course, but there are several at the parking lot, so be considerate and don't litter.

Harmony Bends features many qualities of a top-rated disc golf course in addition to many of the amenities that give disc golf courses that extra special quality.

I could tell immediately this course was brilliantly-designed. As I traveled the course, I searched for reasons to downgrade its impeccable ranking - but I couldn't find any.

Of the 70-plus courses I had played to date, only one merited a perfect rating - Idlewild in northern Kentucky.

I now add a second course to that list.

Harmony Bends is an incredible physical and mental challenge, and this Missouri mammoth of a course delivers on its "destination" description and deserves a 5.0 rating.

True Championship Course
Must play golf the whole round and strategize where to land and how to approach.
Tough, but FAIR lines
I have not had the pleasure of playing many of the top courses around the world, so for now, this is the best course I have played.
It felt like every hole would be a "signature" hole on an average course
Unbelievable amount of excavating and work went into each tee pad, green, etc. The course was just put in the summer of 2016 and it did not feel that way with the bridges, giant boulders to prevent erosion, signage, etc. This was designed with a real budget from the City of Columbia I suppose.
I played the longs and it shot 69 - 1 over course par of 68. This is not an easy course to play blind, and my round was mediocre for my playing ability, but it's a true par 68 and it's not a 10 down kind of 68.
Since the area is not a multiuse park it feels like a dedicated piece of pristine disc golf property with the winding creek, elevation and beautiful old growth Midwestern forest.

If I had to pick one I would say the course looses some luster when you get down in the "bottoms". It just did not have the same majestic feel and it would certainly be damp after a rain, but a previous reviewer cited a 24 hour drainage period. With that said, the holes are great, I just think there is about 5 or 6 holes that don't "feel" as majestic. The holes themselves are fantastic - as is every hole.

Hole 18 is really hard. It may be the only hole I felt was a little lucky, but again, I played blind and in retrospect played it incorrectly. the creek winds through the whole fairway and there are multiple lines to throw - I'm just not sure which one to take. I wish I would have known about the secret disc retriever in the tree as a previous reviewer pointed out. The walls to the creek in some areas are about 10 feet of vertical mud. My brother had to dig a large branch into the creek bottom while I scaled the mud wall barefoot holding on to the stick to get my disc. Good news is I landed in the shallows, but it sucked to retrieve - if you have a retriever or if you find the secret one - it will be very handy here.

This course is right off of !-70 so if your traveling by stop and play it. I have traveled a bit and am from St. Louis which has some really good courses, but this one is far and away the best I've played. There are others like it in the country I have yet (hopefully) to play, but I think it will make most peoples top 5, or at lest top 10 for the most well traveled.

Mr. Houck really knows what he is doing.

This is a PDGA pro tour championship level course.

Just to re-iterate this course is the real deal. This is not your typical course that's tucked in the middle of a community park. Harmony Bends is scenic, challenging and offers the full variety of shots.

The location is great, it's just far enough off the beaten path for you to feel like you're on a small hike, or nature walk. While still being close enough to not be a hassle!

Exponential replay value. Blue/White tee's are typically similar shots.However playing a round from the short red tee's is almost like playing a new course with 18 new tee shots.

The majority of water is very shallow (inches deep) and you can easily retrieve your discs. ***Disclaimer*** there are random deep spots that are 5-10ft+ deep.

Variety is the spice of life: you will use every shot in your arsenal before you leave.

Columbia Disc Golf Club / locals are very friendly & healthy disc golf community.

Show Me Disc Sports is a dedicated disc golf store that is less then a 10 minute drive on i-70 from the course.

This course has the intangibles.

As I mentioned earlier, there are a few deep spots of water.

18 is a hole where if you throw some average shots, you can end up in the water 3 times easily. It's very very tough. It can put a damper on a otherwise fun game.

If you're a player who is exceptionally prone to frustration or "tilt" then be mentally prepared. There's nothing wrong with that, at times I can be myself. I only bring it up because, you should know going in, its VERY easy to get slapped around by the course. Particularly from the Blue tee's.

It's a relatively clean course. But there is a small amount of trash that shows up. Irks me to death because its such a nice course.

***Posion Ivy & Stinging Nettles***

Holes 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15 will be covered in these evil plants in mid summer. As a local, let me tell you.

It's. A. Bad. Time.

There's a makeshift disc retriever in the big tree by the basket on 18!

Copperheads in fall

This is a dedicated DG park. It is a refreshing change compared to most parks with oblivious walkers loitering in fairways and dog walkers leaving feces everywhere. Walkers still pop up sometimes, but it's rare. There is no mulituse path, no tennis courts, nothing to interfere with the game! Very welcomed change compared to other local courses Oakland top course and Indian HIlls.


Easy to get to from the highway or town.

Extremely few instances where other groups will interfere with your throw. The course is designed with plenty of buffer and woods between holes, poor throws don't have much chance of getting into adjoining fairways. On the same subject, a game can be played without seeing anybody else. This gives the course a fantastic private feel, even when busy.

Multiple teepads offer a fresh game without waiting for the club to move baskets. Nice concrete pads that are level and large. No off camber pads , even though the course is rarely flat play.

Absolutely stellar use of the terrain, trees, creeks, and pin locations. Many pins located where you MUST play smart or face OB and rollaway / lost discs.

Massive old trees abound, the majority of the course is fully shaded. Some huge cottonwood and sycamore groves in the floodplains. Fairways 1, 7, 10, 12, and 15 get full sun at high noon, but most have shade on the edges for staying cool.

Variety of short and long shots from all pads. It does not play monotonous like many courses that repeat the same shot and distance on every hole. The play switches between right, left, and straight shots constantly.


Favorable drives for backhand or forehand on most holes. Plenty of right fading shots keep it challenging for skilled players.

Variety! Elevated teepads, downhill drives, uphill drives, flat holes, short holes, really long holes. Variety like no other! No two holes play the same.

It's difficult. Seriously difficult. But that is why it is excellent! Between the variety and superb design, and lots of challenge in risk/reward situation, it won't lose luster for a long time.

The hiking can be difficult. This is not a good course for a cart in some areas, but maybe this is just poor cart design. Lighter carts would be advantageous. Has some rocky sections (nature!). Holes 8 and 15 have steep sections that cannot be avoided, and could not be steeper and stay usable. They are not easy to navigate with any moisture, yet I've done it plenty with no issue. I expect some erosion or addition of stairs in certain locations. Stairs have been built on 10 and 15 to help.

Walking from 12 to 13 red pad crosses over 14s fairway. Use caution! There is a sign there to remind you, but you know how people pay attention...

Some of the course will flood out. There will be 9 holes at all times though. It takes 24 hours to fully drain from flood unless the missouri river is also flooded. If you don't like playing when it's wet or muddy, the course is really no worse than any other. It seems to be playable faster than other local courses because of the sandy and well drained topography. The city has been working to fix low points that hold water.

Because of the lower sections, there are mosquitoes. A towel works excellent to swat them away. 2018 was bad, 2019 had very few. Your mileage may vary.


Heavily wooded also means easy to loose discs. Less skilled groups will need to use spotters or throw very carefully . I can't stress enough that this course will be very difficult for beginners. But this downfall is also what creates the fantastic private feel and interesting play, more skilled players will not find this a problem.

Im a local and live closest to this course. I play this course (typically red pads) at least once a week, body willing. 1-8 and 18 make a great "front 9" loop. 1-9 and 16-18 is another good loop. 9s basket is very close to 16s tees.

Bring lots of water! It is a long hike. I generally drink 16 to 24 ounces of water each round in the summer.

Bring a disc retriever. I lost 3 in 3 days of play at first, being too aggressive with shots near water. Totally my fault for making risky shots. As I play the course over the years, I rarely lose a disc with more strategic throws and better disc selection.

Play with a skilled group of two to four is about 2.5 hours. One person can play in 1.5 hours with a brisk walk to cover ground. A more relaxed round can easily take 3 to 4 hours. Groups above 8, I would recommend splitting into two groups if time is a concern.

I have met players from many states in just a few days, and they are absolutely fanatic about the course! A few comments have been made about it being the best course they have played. I agree.



Par from the Red pads is too generous IMO. As a beginner I finished below par the first time playing reds. The locals have started playing these as par 54, a game I find very fun. It would be fair to play par about 58 strokes too, because 900 foot holes are a bit too much for par 3!

Update after a few more years of playing: this course is still rad! The more I play other courses, the more i value having such an excellent course just a few miles away. Dont miss this course if you are passing through!

2 to 3 teepads offer fun/challenge for anyone that wants it. Or mix up all 3. Various lines from pretty much any teepad you want. Make sure to play your drives to set up your approach (or next fairway drive on the bookend par 5s, 1/9/10/18) This course is long but very technical and demands that you have good placement and putting to score well.

Gold pin positions look to offer some serious challenges. Lots of landing zones around the greens will really make you focus on laying up and not just running baskets with impunity.

The course rewards smart play that is executed well. It punishes sloppy or overly aggressive play, at least at my level.

Some of the trees that were cut on the fairways were repurposed into benches - one at every hole, but not every teepad unfortunately.

Tough to pick at the bad of this course. Lots of the rough spots are because it was just finished last week. Some spots have heavy hay laid down and there are lots of areas with no grass cover (heavy equipment + no rain = lack of grass obviously)

There are a few steep hills that are challenging to get up and down, and could be quite treacherous if it's wet.

Course is in a creek watershed, so if there's been heavy rain don't expect to be able to play it much if at all.

One of my friends said 'It's a hike where you also get to play disc golf', and that's no joke. Bring your hiking shoes, lots and lots of water, and some snacks. Also, you're going to want deep woods off in the summer months, especially since we've affectionately nicknamed the back 9 "Zika Valley"

An amazing landscape that is home to the finest disc golf course I've ever played. If you're a hardcore disc golfer, you owe it to yourself to try and play this course.