Whistler's Bend reviews
12
0
EspressoPatronum
Gold level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience:
19.4 years
316 played
302 reviews
Unique and Exquisite Scenery
Reviewed:
Played on:Jul 27, 2024
Played the course:once
Pros:
Basics:
- excellent full color tee signs with pin placement and elevation gradient
- multiple pin placements, only one populated at a time
- high visibility Chainstar Pro baskets
- very well maintained park
- one quality concrete tee per hole
Amenities/Extras:
- pack in/pack out course without garbage cans, appropriate for this natural area
- nice built in steps in some steep areas
Course Design/General Thoughts:
- great mix of hole lengths
- navigation is generally straightforward except for a few retraces
- no notable safety hazards
- somewhat technical without being punishing
- moderately wooded
Difficulty/Uniqueness:
- one of the most unique courses you will play
- exquisite natural beauty on the Umpqua River
- challenging length and topography with huge elevation change
- deer and sounds of wildlife all around
- scenery perfectly encapsulates Pacific Northwest
- a few huge dropoffs down to river
- incredible top of the world shot/view on hole 17
- most holes are very unique
- requires a large variety of shots to score well
- requires both technical precision and distance
- excellent full color tee signs with pin placement and elevation gradient
- multiple pin placements, only one populated at a time
- high visibility Chainstar Pro baskets
- very well maintained park
- one quality concrete tee per hole
Amenities/Extras:
- pack in/pack out course without garbage cans, appropriate for this natural area
- nice built in steps in some steep areas
Course Design/General Thoughts:
- great mix of hole lengths
- navigation is generally straightforward except for a few retraces
- no notable safety hazards
- somewhat technical without being punishing
- moderately wooded
Difficulty/Uniqueness:
- one of the most unique courses you will play
- exquisite natural beauty on the Umpqua River
- challenging length and topography with huge elevation change
- deer and sounds of wildlife all around
- scenery perfectly encapsulates Pacific Northwest
- a few huge dropoffs down to river
- incredible top of the world shot/view on hole 17
- most holes are very unique
- requires a large variety of shots to score well
- requires both technical precision and distance
Cons:
- next tee signs would be nice for a few areas
- some tee signs don't have pin placement marked
- a few repetitive holes in the middle that are open and flat
- some tee signs don't have pin placement marked
- a few repetitive holes in the middle that are open and flat
Other Thoughts:
Whistler's Bend is one of the most unique courses you will ever play from a scenery standpoint. Nestled with a campground in a bend of the Umpqua River, this setting is breathtaking for disc golf. All you will hear are nature sounds with the babbling river, the birds, and no road noise whatsoever. It is a true taste of the Pacific Northwest with notable elevation change and mountains all around.
The disc golf here is above average but perhaps not life-altering. I was really tempted to give this course a 4.5 for the scenery, uniqueness, and experience, but I don't think the play itself goes beyond 4.0 courses I've played. That said, this is an excellent course with a ton of variety. There are a few more open/flat holes that are less interesting, but most holes are very unique. There are uphill and downhill shots, holes with huge dropoffs, more densely wooded holes, and even a few down near the river itself.
You will need many shots in your bag to score well. There's a great variety of hole lengths here, though the course probably trends toward the longer side. It is 27 holes so that is part of the length. Technical precision is required in the moderately and heavily wooded areas here, and control of shots from elevation will come into play too. The difficulty isn't brutal here but you'll need some decent distance, including on uphill throws, to make par here. Birdies will be somewhat elusive.
Tee signs are excellent, though it was frustrating how many were missing their tee placement indicators. Having multiple pin positions available is nice, and the equipment here in general was in fantastic shape. The Chainstar Pros are really some of the best baskets on the market right now; these catch great with 3 layers of chains and the bright red bands on this course are very visible.
I usually note garbage cans as a pro, but mostly just because I want courses to stay clean. More and more, I realize I prefer pack in/pack out courses that don't allow players to leave their trash anywhere on the course, even in a garbage can. This fits so much better with the pristine natural beauty of this setting.
I struggled to note many cons here. There were a few places I'd like some more navigational aids. Subjectively, I'd prefer more dense woods holes, but I didn't hold that against the course. While there are objectively better courses out there, this one is designed really well and really does everything right. I don't care for courses beyond 18 holes unless the holes are actually unique and add something - Whistler's Bend accomplishes this with so many unique holes.
All said, this is a beautiful place to play disc golf and deserves its reputation as one of the best courses in Oregon. It's not quite "Top 10" material nationally, but it's still a ton of fun and should be a destination you plan into a trip to Oregon. It may be a bit challeging/long for newer players but for intermediate and up levels, it's a great challenge and a great time with some of the best scenery you'll ever get to play in.
The disc golf here is above average but perhaps not life-altering. I was really tempted to give this course a 4.5 for the scenery, uniqueness, and experience, but I don't think the play itself goes beyond 4.0 courses I've played. That said, this is an excellent course with a ton of variety. There are a few more open/flat holes that are less interesting, but most holes are very unique. There are uphill and downhill shots, holes with huge dropoffs, more densely wooded holes, and even a few down near the river itself.
You will need many shots in your bag to score well. There's a great variety of hole lengths here, though the course probably trends toward the longer side. It is 27 holes so that is part of the length. Technical precision is required in the moderately and heavily wooded areas here, and control of shots from elevation will come into play too. The difficulty isn't brutal here but you'll need some decent distance, including on uphill throws, to make par here. Birdies will be somewhat elusive.
Tee signs are excellent, though it was frustrating how many were missing their tee placement indicators. Having multiple pin positions available is nice, and the equipment here in general was in fantastic shape. The Chainstar Pros are really some of the best baskets on the market right now; these catch great with 3 layers of chains and the bright red bands on this course are very visible.
I usually note garbage cans as a pro, but mostly just because I want courses to stay clean. More and more, I realize I prefer pack in/pack out courses that don't allow players to leave their trash anywhere on the course, even in a garbage can. This fits so much better with the pristine natural beauty of this setting.
I struggled to note many cons here. There were a few places I'd like some more navigational aids. Subjectively, I'd prefer more dense woods holes, but I didn't hold that against the course. While there are objectively better courses out there, this one is designed really well and really does everything right. I don't care for courses beyond 18 holes unless the holes are actually unique and add something - Whistler's Bend accomplishes this with so many unique holes.
All said, this is a beautiful place to play disc golf and deserves its reputation as one of the best courses in Oregon. It's not quite "Top 10" material nationally, but it's still a ton of fun and should be a destination you plan into a trip to Oregon. It may be a bit challeging/long for newer players but for intermediate and up levels, it's a great challenge and a great time with some of the best scenery you'll ever get to play in.
14
0
wolfhaley
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience:
20.6 years
1176 played
760 reviews
Reviewed:
Played on:Jun 16, 2024
Played the course:once
Pros:
Whistler's Bend is one of the better known courses in the entire state of Oregon. One of the highest rated ones too, and I can see why after my visit. The park itself is gorgeous. There's amazing views of the surrounding hills from everywhere on the course and you also get to see the Umpqua river from many different holes as well. Just one of the more visually appealing courses you're going to see.
The design is great. The course is 27 holes but you could easily break it down into just 9 or 18 if you wanted to. We played the whole thing and it breaks down with the front nine being the more wooded technical section of the course. There's some slight elevation on this section but it's pretty moderate. The middle nine is where the elevation really kicks in. Hole 11 is a massive uphill shot. Plays like 450' or so. You have another shorter uphill hole on 12 too. Then you make your way back down AND up the hill again by the time you tee off on hole 17. You'll be gassed at this point but are rewarded with an epic 570' downhill bomb. The final nine is flatter and more open than the front nine. This is a relief by this point in the round.
The baskets are red Chainstar Pros. These stand out nicely throughout the course. All are mounted level and catch great. Not sure why you don't see these baskets more often, some of the best on the market imo. There's up to three pin placements per hole and a single basket.
The tee pads are awesome. There's different shapes and versions of these throughout but all are plenty long and wide enough, level and have good grip to them. I'm guessing that some of the pads are from prior versions of the course. Hole 27's pad had a metal plaque that said 18 on it so I'm thinking some are from that version while the others have been added since, thus the different shapes and sizes. Either way, No issues with these. One tee pad per hole.
You'll need all the shots in your bag to score well out here. There's a good mix of both BH and FH friendly holes with plenty of dead straight shots too. The distances range from a little of 200' all the way up to the 570' downhill 17th. The majority are between 250 and 350 feet though.
The tee signs are nice. Big and bold signs mounted on a 4x4 post by each tee. These have a very detailed hole map which shows all the different pin positions, next tee arrow and any OB that is in play. These also have the hole #, par and distances to each pin placement. Very nice signage. There's also a large kiosk by the parking lot with a full course map.
The design is great. The course is 27 holes but you could easily break it down into just 9 or 18 if you wanted to. We played the whole thing and it breaks down with the front nine being the more wooded technical section of the course. There's some slight elevation on this section but it's pretty moderate. The middle nine is where the elevation really kicks in. Hole 11 is a massive uphill shot. Plays like 450' or so. You have another shorter uphill hole on 12 too. Then you make your way back down AND up the hill again by the time you tee off on hole 17. You'll be gassed at this point but are rewarded with an epic 570' downhill bomb. The final nine is flatter and more open than the front nine. This is a relief by this point in the round.
The baskets are red Chainstar Pros. These stand out nicely throughout the course. All are mounted level and catch great. Not sure why you don't see these baskets more often, some of the best on the market imo. There's up to three pin placements per hole and a single basket.
The tee pads are awesome. There's different shapes and versions of these throughout but all are plenty long and wide enough, level and have good grip to them. I'm guessing that some of the pads are from prior versions of the course. Hole 27's pad had a metal plaque that said 18 on it so I'm thinking some are from that version while the others have been added since, thus the different shapes and sizes. Either way, No issues with these. One tee pad per hole.
You'll need all the shots in your bag to score well out here. There's a good mix of both BH and FH friendly holes with plenty of dead straight shots too. The distances range from a little of 200' all the way up to the 570' downhill 17th. The majority are between 250 and 350 feet though.
The tee signs are nice. Big and bold signs mounted on a 4x4 post by each tee. These have a very detailed hole map which shows all the different pin positions, next tee arrow and any OB that is in play. These also have the hole #, par and distances to each pin placement. Very nice signage. There's also a large kiosk by the parking lot with a full course map.
Cons:
The signs have the slotted spots to attach a bolt or something to show what pin position is in play. None of these were being used though. Kind of annoying when you have the holes drilled in the signs already.
A few of the baskets either had trees fall on the cages or someone manhandled them and bent them down. I'm guessing it was from trees falling since the two that were bent were in the wooded section.
The grass on the steep hill for the middle nine is like walking on ice if it's been dead for awhile. I almost slid down the hill a few times on this stuff. It was something I've never encountered before. Literally like skiing. Watch your footing out there.
There's no reception out there so if you're scoring on your phone you'll want to bring the scorecard up before you get to the parking lot. I used Udisc and it took about ten holes before the map finally loaded.
The course doesn't loop back near the parking lot at any point so be sure to pack in everything you need beforehand.
It'd be nice if there were a few more benches around the course or even some logs to sit on, especially on the hill holes.
A few of the baskets either had trees fall on the cages or someone manhandled them and bent them down. I'm guessing it was from trees falling since the two that were bent were in the wooded section.
The grass on the steep hill for the middle nine is like walking on ice if it's been dead for awhile. I almost slid down the hill a few times on this stuff. It was something I've never encountered before. Literally like skiing. Watch your footing out there.
There's no reception out there so if you're scoring on your phone you'll want to bring the scorecard up before you get to the parking lot. I used Udisc and it took about ten holes before the map finally loaded.
The course doesn't loop back near the parking lot at any point so be sure to pack in everything you need beforehand.
It'd be nice if there were a few more benches around the course or even some logs to sit on, especially on the hill holes.
Other Thoughts:
Despite all my cons this course was a blast and well worth the lengthy addition to our trip just to get down here to play it. This is a must play course in my opinion. If you ever get the chance to check this one out, do it. Fun golf and just a beautiful area. Loved this course.
10
0
Beautiful and Brutal
Reviewed:
Played on:Jun 16, 2023
Played the course:once
Pros:
-Shiny new Discraft Chainstar baskets
-Concrete tee pads
-Helpful and accurate signs with good pin position markers
-Multiple pin positions
-Good use of terrain and elevation
-Rugged terrain and scenery
-Variety of holes that favor forehand and backhand
-Pit toilets available, water available in campground
-Plenty of parking
-No park entrance fee
-Concrete tee pads
-Helpful and accurate signs with good pin position markers
-Multiple pin positions
-Good use of terrain and elevation
-Rugged terrain and scenery
-Variety of holes that favor forehand and backhand
-Pit toilets available, water available in campground
-Plenty of parking
-No park entrance fee
Cons:
-No "Next tee" markers on baskets
-Some long hikes between holes
-Not the best upkeep, but this may be because it is a state park and meant to be left untouched
-Rough is very punishing, some shots include OB water in the Umpqua if your shot goes wild
-Some long hikes between holes
-Not the best upkeep, but this may be because it is a state park and meant to be left untouched
-Rough is very punishing, some shots include OB water in the Umpqua if your shot goes wild
Other Thoughts:
I think it's fair to call this a destination course. The scenery and legitimate hike made it an overall adventure. I played in mid June, and the major detractor was how the grass was seeding and it was impossible to avoid it even on the fairways, so boots would make your life much better. I'm very thankful that I had a local who knew the course, otherwise I would have been lost for sure. I hope to play this course again, but hopefully when the grass isn't seeding.
15
0
2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Nov 19, 2019
Played the course:once
Pros:
Two practice baskets and good parking but Wow just wow. The scenery here is incredible!!! The views of the mountains river and wildlife is almost unmatched anywhere. I can't even tell you how many different deer I saw on this course. The course itself has some of the most iconic holes I've ever thrown. Top of the world here is the best top of the world hole I've played and yes I've played DeLa multiple times. Every hole here feels well crafted, and gives you multiple lines and throws. The hole down by the river is the most terrifying drive I've thrown and one day I'll man up and go for it instead of laying up. This course literally has it all and will challenge even the most expirence golfers. It's long tiring and downright fun. Nice tee signs and even better holes.
Cons:
The walkouts on a few holes are pretty long. You will more than likely get turned around without a map specially if trying to play all 27. They've had a few layout changes and I still get lost here and there playing it. Hole 19 should be removed and different hole put in would help with the flow and walkouts. The bolts to mark the pin location were all missing from every tee sign almost :/. Baskets aren't uniformed, and the front half the course has Different baskets then the final how ever many holes
Other Thoughts:
There's camping yurts and fishing here. Truly an iconic course and one of the best in Oregon. The cons are what make this fall short of the 5 star standard however because the walkouts and navigation our fairly bad plus the other small things like uniformed baskets and no bolts for the pin location. However I will always love this course and it's truly remarkable nature and iconic holes
2
9
Marc55410
Experience:
14.5 years
15 played
8 reviews
Milo South? 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:Jul 10, 2019
Played the course:once
Pros:
Fun course with variety of shots long and short.
Cons:
Poor signage from course map layout to next tee indicator. Local guide indispensable first time round as cell coverage for UDISC may be spotty.
Other Thoughts:
I could see this being too hard on a really hot day. Lots to manage. You are hiking while carrying your bag. Plenty of hills. Camp onsite and make it a weekend. This course should be on the National Tour. Now that the TD at Ledgestone has shown disinterest, Whistlers could be the spot.
1
8
lucasap
Experience:
18.5 years
155 played
3 reviews
Epic 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Aug 10, 2018
Played the course:once
Pros:
Beautiful scenery. Overthrows near river will be penalized with loss of disc. Long bombs and technical lines combine to make a formidable challenge. One of the sweetest courses I have ever played. Nice campgrounds. Wonderful signage. Pushes you to step up your game.
Cons:
Super long hike and punishing on the feet. It's a stay and play course and really should be done with a full day of camping, paddling and disc.
9
1
coyotepower
Experience:
19.3 years
87 played
34 reviews
In a Van down by the River 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:Aug 8, 2018
Played the course:once
Pros:
- Right along the beautiful Umpqua river in a state park.
- Camping nearby
- Starts off in the Woods but opens up later in the round.
- Some wonderful elevation changes where you can throw 500+ feet.
- Camping nearby
- Starts off in the Woods but opens up later in the round.
- Some wonderful elevation changes where you can throw 500+ feet.
Cons:
The signage.
Freaking Hole 14 really pissed me off. its up the hill. No sign. DONT THROW DOWN THE HILL LIKE WE DID. Nothing worse than realizing you are throwing to 17 and have to walk back up that mountain. Just about killed me. BE AWARE. This will greatly improve your experience there and wont leave you cursing the course designers. Have to take a full point off for poor signage at such a prominent course where I had to pay $4 to park.
Freaking Hole 14 really pissed me off. its up the hill. No sign. DONT THROW DOWN THE HILL LIKE WE DID. Nothing worse than realizing you are throwing to 17 and have to walk back up that mountain. Just about killed me. BE AWARE. This will greatly improve your experience there and wont leave you cursing the course designers. Have to take a full point off for poor signage at such a prominent course where I had to pay $4 to park.
Other Thoughts:
Day 8 of 12 was Whistlers Bend.
Ill admit that I played badly at Whistlers Bend near Roseburg, OR. It was just too hot and the grass was dead. I was PISSED after hole 14 when I threw my disc down the mountain instead of up. Yes, I should have checked my map but a course of this level should be fairly navigable. The signage was poor overall and that was the feeling I had at a lot of West Coast courses. Good signage is part of the experience, much like a quality server is important at a good restaurant. They guide you through the meal. At Whistlers its like the best steakhouse in the world but you have to find your own table and get your own cutlery. It was nearly 100 that day and we started at 9:15am. Finished after 1. River afterward is a MUST if you go when its warm.
All was instantly forgiven as we threw on our swim shorts & river shoes and hopped into the Umpqua after the round. It seriously made my day and set the tone for the rest of our trip north. Might even give a half point back for the river...
Ill admit that I played badly at Whistlers Bend near Roseburg, OR. It was just too hot and the grass was dead. I was PISSED after hole 14 when I threw my disc down the mountain instead of up. Yes, I should have checked my map but a course of this level should be fairly navigable. The signage was poor overall and that was the feeling I had at a lot of West Coast courses. Good signage is part of the experience, much like a quality server is important at a good restaurant. They guide you through the meal. At Whistlers its like the best steakhouse in the world but you have to find your own table and get your own cutlery. It was nearly 100 that day and we started at 9:15am. Finished after 1. River afterward is a MUST if you go when its warm.
All was instantly forgiven as we threw on our swim shorts & river shoes and hopped into the Umpqua after the round. It seriously made my day and set the tone for the rest of our trip north. Might even give a half point back for the river...
16
0
Magic on the North Umpqua 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Jun 8, 2018
Played the course:2-4 times
Pros:
-27 permanent baskets with a level mounting, in good repair
-27 well poured cement tee pads. They telescope toward the targets which I really like
-Wonderful use of a lot of elevation. This is a factor that I hold very dearly when playing or rating a course and they nailed it. Lots of risk reward and some astoundingly scenic greens and tees.
-Great variety in the length and style of holes. The course ranges from open to wooded with everything in between and there is a nice blend of distances even though I'd say it's favors the longer thrower on the overall.
-Solid mix of shot shaping requirements. Many holes offer multiple lines, some more demanding than others with a mix of open bomber that allow you to cut loose.
-Arrows on the baskets help in finding the next tee.
-The atmosphere at Whistler's is absolutely magical. One of the most enjoyable disc golf experiences I've had with breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the North Umpqua flowing along with you as you play.
-Well maintained. Was shaggy the first day we got in but had been completely mowed by the following afternoon and was immaculate.
-Camping on site with practice baskets at both camp locations. One area is right along the North Umpqua. BEAUTIFUL and soothing for a foot soak after a long round or two.
-Pay to play at only $4.
-27 well poured cement tee pads. They telescope toward the targets which I really like
-Wonderful use of a lot of elevation. This is a factor that I hold very dearly when playing or rating a course and they nailed it. Lots of risk reward and some astoundingly scenic greens and tees.
-Great variety in the length and style of holes. The course ranges from open to wooded with everything in between and there is a nice blend of distances even though I'd say it's favors the longer thrower on the overall.
-Solid mix of shot shaping requirements. Many holes offer multiple lines, some more demanding than others with a mix of open bomber that allow you to cut loose.
-Arrows on the baskets help in finding the next tee.
-The atmosphere at Whistler's is absolutely magical. One of the most enjoyable disc golf experiences I've had with breathtaking views of the surrounding area and the North Umpqua flowing along with you as you play.
-Well maintained. Was shaggy the first day we got in but had been completely mowed by the following afternoon and was immaculate.
-Camping on site with practice baskets at both camp locations. One area is right along the North Umpqua. BEAUTIFUL and soothing for a foot soak after a long round or two.
-Pay to play at only $4.
Cons:
-Some of the older Mach baskets could be updated to match the DISCatchers making spotting the baskets easier.
-A few long walks between some of the holes. Its already a bit of a haul with 27 holes and LOTS of elevation so wandering a bit between holes isn't great.
-Next tee arrows are nice but overall navigation isn't great. Not terrible either but was certainly helpful to have somebody along who had played it for my first round.
-Tee signs need to be updated for the new layout. Not dinging the rating here, particularly since they had nice temporary signs up, but would be nice to have complete and up to date info on every hole.
-There are a few lackluster holes. Nothing terrible but when so many holes are awesome the average to meh holes kind of stick out. Some of the open bombers were just kind of plain.
-Rough is rough. Couple that with abundant OR rain and you get some soggy searching when off the fairway.
-A few long walks between some of the holes. Its already a bit of a haul with 27 holes and LOTS of elevation so wandering a bit between holes isn't great.
-Next tee arrows are nice but overall navigation isn't great. Not terrible either but was certainly helpful to have somebody along who had played it for my first round.
-Tee signs need to be updated for the new layout. Not dinging the rating here, particularly since they had nice temporary signs up, but would be nice to have complete and up to date info on every hole.
-There are a few lackluster holes. Nothing terrible but when so many holes are awesome the average to meh holes kind of stick out. Some of the open bombers were just kind of plain.
-Rough is rough. Couple that with abundant OR rain and you get some soggy searching when off the fairway.
Other Thoughts:
This now rivals Milo for my favorite course is OR. Such a unique and naturally beautiful place to throw frisbees. So many cool holes that I cant begin to make a list of favorites but it's like a treat every time you walk to a tee box. Challenging golf with an awesome mix of terrain and all the elevation my mountain dwelling heart could ever desire. I'll be heading back as soon as I can and suggest you make the trip to soak in the magic that is Whistler's Bend. And, pro tip, read ODRB's review for the alternate tee location on hole 15, AMAZING!
10
0
ODRB
Experience:
16.6 years
202 played
7 reviews
One of my favorites anywhere. 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Jun 11, 2018
Played the course:once
Pros:
I'm just going to second the good review done below by PierParkNut. The pros and the cons, with the very few caveats herein.
I will add that the Edge of the World tee on 15 is probably my favorite teepad in all of my disc golf experience. When you go to the regular teepad for 15, turn around and look up on the cliff, then walk behind you up the road, and up a pretty steep little path to get up there. The view and the shot will not disappoint. ProTip: Bring sangria.
The navigation has gotten better as the new layout wears in, and it is mostly pretty obvious where to go now. And the teesigns seem to all be renumbered to the new layout. And I don't find any of it "grueling" -- there are a few hills to climb and a few long walkouts. And a few holes that require some full pulls. But none of it is all that long.
I will add that the Edge of the World tee on 15 is probably my favorite teepad in all of my disc golf experience. When you go to the regular teepad for 15, turn around and look up on the cliff, then walk behind you up the road, and up a pretty steep little path to get up there. The view and the shot will not disappoint. ProTip: Bring sangria.
The navigation has gotten better as the new layout wears in, and it is mostly pretty obvious where to go now. And the teesigns seem to all be renumbered to the new layout. And I don't find any of it "grueling" -- there are a few hills to climb and a few long walkouts. And a few holes that require some full pulls. But none of it is all that long.
Cons:
The rain sucks. Hole 25 is pretty meh.
Other Thoughts:
Really might be my favorite place play disc golf. Not my favorite course -- that stays with Milo. But just the vibe, variation, scenery, everything -- as good as I could want out of any course.
8
0
mike2020disc
Experience:
47.5 years
4 played
3 reviews
Mike2020 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Jan 2, 2018
Played the course:5+ times
Pros:
The 200 acre Whistlers Bend property is just magnificent. Surrounded by the great N. Umpqua River. 27 - 980 rated holes.(even Par is a pro score) Course was recently converted from 18 to 27 holes.
All custom cement tees. It has a huge variety of hole designs, from long tunnels in the Douglas Fir's to wide open river front bombs and some of the most challenging short down hill par 3s. One of the feature holes is a 600'+ huge down hill. 2 campgrounds (55 sites total), 3 group camps and 3 yurts (military style tent w/power) are right next to the course. Discs sold at front gate and in town. Steelhead and trout fishing year around. Swimming, floating and kayaking June - Sept. Lots of tournaments to choose from. 2828 Whistlers Park Rd. Roseburg OR 97470 541-440-6037 or 562-665-9094
New tee signs are planned for 2018
All custom cement tees. It has a huge variety of hole designs, from long tunnels in the Douglas Fir's to wide open river front bombs and some of the most challenging short down hill par 3s. One of the feature holes is a 600'+ huge down hill. 2 campgrounds (55 sites total), 3 group camps and 3 yurts (military style tent w/power) are right next to the course. Discs sold at front gate and in town. Steelhead and trout fishing year around. Swimming, floating and kayaking June - Sept. Lots of tournaments to choose from. 2828 Whistlers Park Rd. Roseburg OR 97470 541-440-6037 or 562-665-9094
New tee signs are planned for 2018
Cons:
15 miles of the 5 frwy near Roseburg. Additional benches and new tee signs coming in 2018. some steep terrain so be ready for a 4+ hour round (foursome) Tent camping $19 - $23 or day use $4 per vehicle.
Other Thoughts:
Lots of big box shopping (Costco Walmart etc.. and hotels in Roseburg `15 miles away but come and camp for the full experience. For reservations go to Douglas county parks, Oregon
5
0
Awesome Course in Roseburg 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Jul 26, 2017
Played the course:once
Pros:
Whistlers Bend is an awesome course in Roseburg, OR. This course has spectacular views and an awesome 27 hole course that you should play.
- This course is really worth playing with a lot of different shots and a views.
-This course starts out with a open/wooded hole and then the next 3 play in the woods. After that there is a hole right next to the right by a water fall and a 50 ft drop so you don't want to lose your disc on that hole.
The rest of the holes are just open for a while.
-Hole 17 is Whistler's bend's top of the world hole. There are two holes that play up to it and then you throw down on to this spectacular view. Although you could lose a disc if you thew to far to the left. This is a course you should come to play for because of this hole and there is nothing like letting your disc sail for 15 seconds!
-This is a course you should go early in the morning and bring a ton of water. I went in the middle of the day and I almost ended up with a sore throat at the end.
- There is nice signage and two practice baskets + an info board.
The rest of the holes are in the open with not enough shade and a lot of brown grass.
A lot of different shots with wooded holes and open holes.
- This course is really worth playing with a lot of different shots and a views.
-This course starts out with a open/wooded hole and then the next 3 play in the woods. After that there is a hole right next to the right by a water fall and a 50 ft drop so you don't want to lose your disc on that hole.
The rest of the holes are just open for a while.
-Hole 17 is Whistler's bend's top of the world hole. There are two holes that play up to it and then you throw down on to this spectacular view. Although you could lose a disc if you thew to far to the left. This is a course you should come to play for because of this hole and there is nothing like letting your disc sail for 15 seconds!
-This is a course you should go early in the morning and bring a ton of water. I went in the middle of the day and I almost ended up with a sore throat at the end.
- There is nice signage and two practice baskets + an info board.
The rest of the holes are in the open with not enough shade and a lot of brown grass.
A lot of different shots with wooded holes and open holes.
Cons:
A few of the holes have nice tee signs but some of them are bad so you have to walk halfway up to see the basket.
-There is a long walk down to the basket on the top of the world hole and its not fun you have to be a serious climber. Or you have to have good traction on your shoes or boots.
- There is a fee to get in.
-There is a long walk down to the basket on the top of the world hole and its not fun you have to be a serious climber. Or you have to have good traction on your shoes or boots.
- There is a fee to get in.
Other Thoughts:
As I said before you want to come in the morning and play fast before the heat starts to pick up.
Also I would love to come back soon because of its awesome views and course!
- You should make the trip out here for this course because it has al these great things with Views and more.
Also I would love to come back soon because of its awesome views and course!
- You should make the trip out here for this course because it has al these great things with Views and more.
11
0
A+ for Shot Variety 2+ years
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:Jul 23, 2019
Played the course:2-4 times
Pros:
-Whistler's Bend Park is a large park along a bend of the North Umpqua River about 15 miles east of Roseburg, Oregon. The park features dozens of campsites, river access, and picnic areas. But the majority of the park is used for the incredible 27 hole disc golf course.
-Never before have I played on a course with such shot variety. The course starts with four shorter technical shots in the woods. Hole #5 is where the teeth of Whistler's start to show. It's a long, downhill, very tricky anhyzer shot with the basket perched 25 feet from the river's edge. Hole 7 is one of the signature holes. It is a gentle downhill slope, a similar cliffs-edge basket placement, and a great view. The next three holes play in and out of woods. At this point, you should be close to even par. But it's tough to stay that way. The next several holes wind their way to the top of an enormous hill. Rollaway opportunities abound. Holes 11 and 16 are especially grueling. But this stretch of holes are well worth it once you reach the panoramic view from the tee of Hole #17.
-Hole 17 puts the Top of the World hole at DeLa to shame. This hole measures at 660 feet, with twice the elevation drop. This hole is what you come for, and it is nothing less than an exhilarating experience to throw. Your disc will stay in the air for 15-20 seconds. If the north wind is up (the prevailing summer wind) this hole becomes quite a challenge. A three is hard earned on a windy day.
-The course does not let up after this. 5 of the last 10 holes play over 400 feet. Hole 18 is also a long downhill throw. Holes 19-21 are all long holes playing through the large field at the bottom of the park. Holes 22 and 23 are fun, technical shots, #23 a beautiful hole on the bluffs overlooking the river. Hole 25 is a longer hole, also on the river's edge. Without question you will use every disc in your bag, probably more than once.
-There are brand-new fantastic tee signs, large, in color, and displaying all of the hole locations as well as the elevation profile for the hole. This is a much needed addition to this course as very few holes are straight forward.
-Two practice baskets near the first tee in a grove of mature trees. It's a great place to practice your upshots and putting on a hot day.
-The tees are nice and large concrete pads, with the exception of hole #1, strangely.
-The natural beauty. I've mentioned it once, but it's worth mentioning again. The views from holes 5, 7, 15, 17, and 25, just to name a few, are absolutely spectacular.
-Never before have I played on a course with such shot variety. The course starts with four shorter technical shots in the woods. Hole #5 is where the teeth of Whistler's start to show. It's a long, downhill, very tricky anhyzer shot with the basket perched 25 feet from the river's edge. Hole 7 is one of the signature holes. It is a gentle downhill slope, a similar cliffs-edge basket placement, and a great view. The next three holes play in and out of woods. At this point, you should be close to even par. But it's tough to stay that way. The next several holes wind their way to the top of an enormous hill. Rollaway opportunities abound. Holes 11 and 16 are especially grueling. But this stretch of holes are well worth it once you reach the panoramic view from the tee of Hole #17.
-Hole 17 puts the Top of the World hole at DeLa to shame. This hole measures at 660 feet, with twice the elevation drop. This hole is what you come for, and it is nothing less than an exhilarating experience to throw. Your disc will stay in the air for 15-20 seconds. If the north wind is up (the prevailing summer wind) this hole becomes quite a challenge. A three is hard earned on a windy day.
-The course does not let up after this. 5 of the last 10 holes play over 400 feet. Hole 18 is also a long downhill throw. Holes 19-21 are all long holes playing through the large field at the bottom of the park. Holes 22 and 23 are fun, technical shots, #23 a beautiful hole on the bluffs overlooking the river. Hole 25 is a longer hole, also on the river's edge. Without question you will use every disc in your bag, probably more than once.
-There are brand-new fantastic tee signs, large, in color, and displaying all of the hole locations as well as the elevation profile for the hole. This is a much needed addition to this course as very few holes are straight forward.
-Two practice baskets near the first tee in a grove of mature trees. It's a great place to practice your upshots and putting on a hot day.
-The tees are nice and large concrete pads, with the exception of hole #1, strangely.
-The natural beauty. I've mentioned it once, but it's worth mentioning again. The views from holes 5, 7, 15, 17, and 25, just to name a few, are absolutely spectacular.
Cons:
-Several of the walks between holes are very steep and treacherous. Hole 22 to 23 especially comes to mind. The walk down the Top of the World Hole is a dangerous, steep dirt path too. I couldn't imagine what it would be like after a rainstorm.
-There's considerable rough on the course. Watch for burrs and blackberries. Hole 25 especially needs some blackberries cleared in the fairway.
-There's considerable rough on the course. Watch for burrs and blackberries. Hole 25 especially needs some blackberries cleared in the fairway.
Other Thoughts:
-This is possibly the most exhausting course I have ever played. It is very long, very hilly, and very challenging. But it was completely worth it and a ton of fun.
-The new layout is coming in very nicely. It's much easier to find your way around now than when I first played the course 2 years ago.
-This area has experienced a drought over the past two years. Unfortunately, many small trees and parts of large trees have failed throughout the park. Watch out for piles of dead wood. Things look a bit better this year (still some green grass in late July) but let's hope for mild weather the rest of this year.
-I would not recommend this course if you are out of shape or cannot throw 300 feet. Or if you like to feel good about your game. I racked up bogeys at an alarming rate. But if you're looking for a beautiful, challenging course with all the shots, Whistler's Bend is hard to beat.
-The new layout is coming in very nicely. It's much easier to find your way around now than when I first played the course 2 years ago.
-This area has experienced a drought over the past two years. Unfortunately, many small trees and parts of large trees have failed throughout the park. Watch out for piles of dead wood. Things look a bit better this year (still some green grass in late July) but let's hope for mild weather the rest of this year.
-I would not recommend this course if you are out of shape or cannot throw 300 feet. Or if you like to feel good about your game. I racked up bogeys at an alarming rate. But if you're looking for a beautiful, challenging course with all the shots, Whistler's Bend is hard to beat.
6
2
porchmike
Experience:
21.9 years
34 played
19 reviews
new whistler's 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:Mar 11, 2017
Played the course:2-4 times
Pros:
i did a long review of the original course, which has always been a favorite of mine- secluded, usually uncrowded, super scenic, a great campground with full bathroom facilities, hot/cold water, showers, and with mostly great disc golf holes. it has recently been expanded to 27 holes, and some of the first few original holes (2,3,4 i think?) have been moved for an expansion of the RV camping area.
Cons:
the new layout is absolutely ridiculous. i doubt the designers will find any fans of the navigation to all the new holes, since it's about a hole's walk to get to each new hole(except 24-to-25, 25-26) and many times you're backtracking or going some other such totally non-intuitive direction. barely any signage, despite very nice concrete teepads for all 27 holes. the original course involved some walking to get to some of the holes, but it made way more sense in general.
to be fair, almost all the new holes are great holes, except 25. and 19. and 27 is the old 18, which just isn't a very good looking hole or a good way to finish a good course. and it's another ridiculous walk there from 26. if you've never played here, you'll be doing a lot of adventuring to find all the new holes. if you've played the old layout, you'll at least have an idea where to look for the new holes, but the new layout will leave you wondering, like, "what?" helpful hint- #1 is in the same place, behind the kiosk in the parking area at the group campground, then to get to new # 2 from #1's pin, look backwards over your right shoulder, turn your body to that direction and walk diagonally left and up into the woods on the path about 300-ish feet to get to hole 2, then do another 180 and throw back in the direction you walked from. kind of a good primer for the navigation to the rest of the new holes. to describe the navigation to just the rest of the new holes would require writing a novel, so no thanks. suffice it to say that it will be much easier on your constitution to play here for the first time with someone who's familiar with the course.
i'm still gonna come here every time i pass through and camp and throw my arm off, but the new layout is bizarre.
to be fair, almost all the new holes are great holes, except 25. and 19. and 27 is the old 18, which just isn't a very good looking hole or a good way to finish a good course. and it's another ridiculous walk there from 26. if you've never played here, you'll be doing a lot of adventuring to find all the new holes. if you've played the old layout, you'll at least have an idea where to look for the new holes, but the new layout will leave you wondering, like, "what?" helpful hint- #1 is in the same place, behind the kiosk in the parking area at the group campground, then to get to new # 2 from #1's pin, look backwards over your right shoulder, turn your body to that direction and walk diagonally left and up into the woods on the path about 300-ish feet to get to hole 2, then do another 180 and throw back in the direction you walked from. kind of a good primer for the navigation to the rest of the new holes. to describe the navigation to just the rest of the new holes would require writing a novel, so no thanks. suffice it to say that it will be much easier on your constitution to play here for the first time with someone who's familiar with the course.
i'm still gonna come here every time i pass through and camp and throw my arm off, but the new layout is bizarre.
5
1
sparred4life
Experience:
9.5 years
14 played
4 reviews
Wonderful course 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Mar 26, 2016
Played the course:2-4 times
Pros:
* Many challenging holes
* Beautiful scenery
* Takes advantage of the elevation
* Quiet, there are other people, but it's not busy by any means
* Beautiful scenery
* Takes advantage of the elevation
* Quiet, there are other people, but it's not busy by any means
Cons:
* A couple of the new pads are still being finished, but with one exception are still usable and look to be close to finishing soon.
* A couple places where losing a disc is a very real possibility. I view it as a part of disc golf, but I know some may shy away from that.
* New signage is yet to be completed, so navigation can be a little tricky right now.
* A couple places where losing a disc is a very real possibility. I view it as a part of disc golf, but I know some may shy away from that.
* New signage is yet to be completed, so navigation can be a little tricky right now.
Other Thoughts:
Wonderful course that I fully enjoyed. It properly kicked my butt, but I enjoyed every hole of it. You'll want to plan for several hours of play. 27 holes takes a long time on a course like this one. A must play for a serious disc golfer!
11
0
pdx-disc
Experience:
31.5 years
15 played
6 reviews
The Present versus The Potential 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Sep 6, 2015
Played the course:5+ times
Pros:
NOTE: Course is currently in the middle of a redesign from 18 holes to 27 holes. All 27 are playable but navigation is difficult.
* Beautiful location on the Umpqua River, oak groves, rolling hills, scenic viewpoints, wildlife, etc.
* Amenities are good - concrete tee pads on most holes, good signage, a few benches, and usually three basket locations for each hole. Good quality baskets.
* Lots of variety to the holes. You will use most of the discs in your bag and most of the types of shots you are able to throw.
* Very challenging course - even with the baskets in their short positions, this is a tough course. Lots of gamble-and-lose-your-disc shots. Variety of challenges - difficult tree holes, long brutal drives, windy shots, cliff hazards, deep rough, etc. (note, this is a "con" for beginners)
* Camping is available within walking distance (small campground with showers, reservable online) and there is also a day use area. Plenty of activities in the summer.
* The new holes add a lot to the course. The new course now has two impressive "top of the world" shots with different views (#16 and #17), and some new along-the-river shots. The challenge level went up quite a bit.
* Beautiful location on the Umpqua River, oak groves, rolling hills, scenic viewpoints, wildlife, etc.
* Amenities are good - concrete tee pads on most holes, good signage, a few benches, and usually three basket locations for each hole. Good quality baskets.
* Lots of variety to the holes. You will use most of the discs in your bag and most of the types of shots you are able to throw.
* Very challenging course - even with the baskets in their short positions, this is a tough course. Lots of gamble-and-lose-your-disc shots. Variety of challenges - difficult tree holes, long brutal drives, windy shots, cliff hazards, deep rough, etc. (note, this is a "con" for beginners)
* Camping is available within walking distance (small campground with showers, reservable online) and there is also a day use area. Plenty of activities in the summer.
* The new holes add a lot to the course. The new course now has two impressive "top of the world" shots with different views (#16 and #17), and some new along-the-river shots. The challenge level went up quite a bit.
Cons:
* Due to the redesign, all of the tee signs need to be redone. The ones that are there are mostly accurate, but sometimes the numbering of the signs is off. Quite a few of the new holes do not have adequate signs. Players familiar with the old course will be *extremely* confused. Ask locals ahead of time if you can find them, or play with someone who's played the new layout.
* There is no current course map available online, or at the beginning of the course (not even stapled to the signboard), or from the park host. You'll probably get lost several times and play things out of order without a guide.
* Poison oak on a few holes. Rare except along the river edges (deep rough) and then quite a lot in the middle of #17 in the hillside (most players will throw well past it and over it, but still).
* A few steep hikes between holes, especially on the new holes. Once the trails are worn in a bit, these will be better, but I would dread a couple of them in the winter (particularly the walk from #16 -> 17).
* There is no current course map available online, or at the beginning of the course (not even stapled to the signboard), or from the park host. You'll probably get lost several times and play things out of order without a guide.
* Poison oak on a few holes. Rare except along the river edges (deep rough) and then quite a lot in the middle of #17 in the hillside (most players will throw well past it and over it, but still).
* A few steep hikes between holes, especially on the new holes. Once the trails are worn in a bit, these will be better, but I would dread a couple of them in the winter (particularly the walk from #16 -> 17).
Other Thoughts:
* Good Course For: experienced disc golfers looking to challenge themselves, backwoods trackers (for figuring out where the next hole is), hikers and nature enthusiasts, and people who've got all day to play disc golf.
* Bad Course For: beginners and casual players, people who aren't able to hike steep terrain, people without good trail shoes, people with vertigo or fear of heights.
* King for a Day: new signs on every hole that needs one, and "next tee" arrows on every basket. Crosswalks painted on the road and real stairs on the side of the road for when you move from 14 -> 15 and 15 -> 16. A current map posted on the signboard at the beginning (easy to take a picture of it with your phone - all we need is *one map*). Eradicate poison oak from fairways and trails.
* Other Thoughts: Do you rate a course on how it IS, or it's POTENTIAL if it's finished? As is, three stars. If it's finished as planned, to the quality level of the old course (concrete tees, excellent signage, three possible basket positions on every hole), then it will be an easy five stars and probably one of the best courses on the west coast. So I split the difference at four stars... for now.
* Bad Course For: beginners and casual players, people who aren't able to hike steep terrain, people without good trail shoes, people with vertigo or fear of heights.
* King for a Day: new signs on every hole that needs one, and "next tee" arrows on every basket. Crosswalks painted on the road and real stairs on the side of the road for when you move from 14 -> 15 and 15 -> 16. A current map posted on the signboard at the beginning (easy to take a picture of it with your phone - all we need is *one map*). Eradicate poison oak from fairways and trails.
* Other Thoughts: Do you rate a course on how it IS, or it's POTENTIAL if it's finished? As is, three stars. If it's finished as planned, to the quality level of the old course (concrete tees, excellent signage, three possible basket positions on every hole), then it will be an easy five stars and probably one of the best courses on the west coast. So I split the difference at four stars... for now.