Disc golf in Portland has grown into a thriving sport, attracting players of all skill levels with its scenic courses, welcoming community, and year-round playability. Whether you’re moving to Portland, relocating to Portland, or a local looking for a new outdoor activity, the city offers some of the best disc golf courses in the Pacific Northwest.
With lush parks, technical fairways, and stunning mountain views, Portland’s disc golf courses provide a mix of challenging layouts and beginner-friendly courses. This guide explores the best disc golf courses in Portland, the local disc golf scene, and how newcomers can get involved in this exciting sport.
Why Portland is a Hotspot for Disc Golf
Portland’s mild climate, active community, and abundance of public parks make it an ideal city for disc golf. Unlike traditional golf, disc golf is more affordable and accessible, with most courses offering free or low-cost play. It’s also a great way for newcomers moving to Portland to meet people, stay active, and explore the city’s beautiful landscapes.
The Portland disc golf community is welcoming to all skill levels, from beginners looking for casual rounds to competitive players seeking tournaments and leagues. The city regularly hosts PDGA-sanctioned events and offers a variety of disc golf shops and clubs for those looking to get more involved.
Best Disc Golf Courses in Portland
Portland and its surrounding areas feature some of the best disc golf courses in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re looking for a casual course to play with friends or a professional-level challenge, the region has something for everyone.
Pier Park Disc Golf Course
Location: North Portland | Website: Portland Parks & Rec
Pier Park is one of the most well-known disc golf courses in Portland, offering a stunning 18-hole layout surrounded by old-growth trees. The technical fairways and elevation changes make it a favorite among experienced players while still being accessible for beginners.
Lunchtime Disc Golf Course
Location: Southwest Portland | Website: Disc Golf Scene
Located at Portland Adventist Academy, Lunchtime Disc Golf Course is one of the best courses for newcomers relocating to Portland. With a mix of short and technical holes, it’s perfect for players looking to sharpen their skills in a relaxed setting.
Blue Lake Regional Park Disc Golf Course
Location: Fairview, OR | Website: Metro Parks
Blue Lake Regional Park features one of the most challenging disc golf courses near Portland. Designed for advanced players, this course offers long fairways, tricky OB (out-of-bounds) areas, and strong winds that test even the most skilled disc golfers.
Dabney State Park Disc Golf Course
Location: Troutdale, OR | Website: Oregon State Parks
Situated along the Sandy River, Dabney State Park’s 18-hole disc golf course provides a beautiful yet challenging experience. It features tight wooded fairways, open fields, and plenty of elevation changes, making it a top choice for players relocating to Portland who want a mix of scenery and difficulty.
McCormick Park Disc Golf Course
Location: St. Helens, OR | Website: St. Helens Parks
McCormick Park’s family-friendly layout makes it a great option for beginners. This 9-hole course offers wide-open fairways and shorter distances, making it ideal for those new to disc golf in Portland.
Buxton Woods Disc Golf Course
Location: Banks, OR | Website: Disc Golf Scene
For those looking for a secluded and scenic disc golf experience, Buxton Woods offers a wooded, technical layout with plenty of elevation changes. It’s a hidden gem for disc golfers in the Portland area.
Disc Golf Leagues, Clubs, and Events in Portland
For those moving to Portland and wanting to get involved in the local disc golf community, there are several leagues and clubs to join. These groups help newcomers improve their skills, meet fellow players, and participate in local events.
Stumptown Disc Golf
Website: Stumptown Disc Golf
Stumptown Disc Golf is Portland’s largest disc golf club, organizing weekly leagues, tournaments, and charity events throughout the year. They also play a key role in course maintenance and community outreach.
Portland Disc Golf League (PDGL)
Website: Disc Golf Scene
PDGL is a great way for newcomers relocating to Portland to meet other players and get involved in casual and competitive disc golf rounds.
PDGA-Sanctioned Tournaments
Portland hosts several Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) events, including the Beaver State Fling, one of the premier disc golf tournaments in the region.
Where to Buy Disc Golf Gear in Portland
For those just getting started, there are plenty of places to buy discs, bags, and accessories in Portland.
Next Adventure – Paddle Sports Center
Website: Next Adventure
This local outdoor store carries a wide selection of discs, bags, and gear for disc golfers. It’s a great place for newcomers looking to get outfitted for their first round.
Play It Again Sports
Website: Play It Again Sports
With multiple locations in the Portland metro area, Play It Again Sports offers affordable new and used disc golf equipment.
Infinite Discs Online Store
Website: Infinite Discs
For those who prefer online shopping, Infinite Discs has one of the largest selections of disc golf gear and ships directly to Portland.
Tips for Newcomers Playing Disc Golf in Portland
If you’re relocating to Portland and new to disc golf, here are some tips to get started:
- Try Different Courses: Start with beginner-friendly courses like Pier Park or Lunchtime, then work your way up to more technical layouts like Blue Lake or Dabney State Park.
- Join a League: Portland has an active disc golf community with friendly, welcoming leagues that are perfect for improving your game.
- Respect the Courses: Pack out all trash, follow course rules, and be mindful of other players. Many of Portland’s best disc golf courses are in public parks, so maintaining them is key.
- Invest in the Right Gear: A starter set with a putter, midrange, and driver is all you need to begin. Many local stores offer disc recommendations for beginners.
Final Thoughts: Why Portland is a Disc Golf Haven
Disc golf in Portland is more than just a sport—it’s a way to connect with the outdoors, meet new people, and enjoy the city’s incredible parks. Whether you’re an experienced player or just getting started, Portland’s growing disc golf scene provides plenty of opportunities to play year-round.
For newcomers moving to Portland, disc golf is a fun and affordable way to explore the city while getting some exercise. With top-tier courses, active leagues, and great local shops, Portland continues to solidify itself as one of the best cities for disc golf in the Pacific Northwest.
So grab your discs, hit the courses, and experience why disc golf in Portland is booming in 2025!
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