Portland Golf Club is one of the most historic and well-regarded private courses in the Pacific Northwest. Known for its tree-lined fairways, strategic layout, and an abundance of water hazards, it offers a challenging yet rewarding experience—especially for those playing from the blue tees. As an 8-handicap golfer, I found the course to be a true test of shot-making, patience, and knowing when to bail out and I failed that test… 🙂
It was the most beautiful day in October in Portland. I loved the course.

Course Overview

• 📍 Location: Portland, Oregon
• ⛳ Par: 72
• 📏 Yardage from Blue Tees: ~6,600 yards
• 🌲 Style: Classic parkland
• 💦 Water Hazards: Water comes into play on 14 of the 18 holes
• 🏆 Notable Events: Has hosted the PGA Championship, Ryder Cup, and LPGA Tour events

Course Conditions & Design

All of the greens were faster than I had ever putted on. They were running about a 12 on the stimp meter.

The fairways were lush, the greens were fast but fair, and the bunkers were strategically placed to make you think about every approach shot. But what stood out most? Water. While not on every hole, Fanno Creek and several ponds make key shots nerve-wracking.

Key Design Features:
✔️ Tree-Lined Fairways: Demands accuracy off the tee—straying too far off line makes recovery difficult.
✔️ Water on 8 Holes: Fanno Creek and ponds force strategic shot placement.
✔️ Well-Bunkered Greens: Positioning on approach shots is critical to avoid tough sand saves.
✔️ Classic Layout: No gimmicks, just pure, strategic golf.

Most Memorable Holes

🏌️‍♂️ Hole 4 (Par 3, 190 yards) – A Precise Iron Test

A scenic par 3 that requires a precise mid-to-long iron into a green that slopes heavily. The pin position can make a huge difference—if it’s tucked, good luck holding the green.

😡 Hole 7 (Par 4, 410 yards) – The One That Got Me

Let’s talk about Hole 7, because it absolutely ate my lunch. A dogleg right with a narrow landing area, this hole demands precision off the tee and an even better approach. I thought I had it under control—until I didn’t. A slight mis-hit off the tee sent my ball sailing toward the trees, and before I knew it, I was yelling “FORE!” at unsuspecting golfers down the fairway. The recovery wasn’t much better, and I closed out the hole with a frustrating double bogey. This hole is a perfect example of why smart golf beats aggressive golf at Portland GC.

🌊 Hole 8 (Par 3, 190 yards) – The Creek That Swallows Golf Balls

You know that feeling when you think you’ve hit a great shot, only to watch it disappear into the abyss? Welcome to Hole 8. A 190-yard par 3 with Fanno Creek guarding the left side of the green—a seemingly innocent little creek that devours golf balls for sport. I aimed safely for the right side but didn’t commit, sending my ball straight toward the water. Plop. Gone. Another drop, another putt, and just like that—another double bogey. Lesson learned: respect the creek.

💦 Hole 11 (Par 4, 430 yards) – Water Comes Into Play Off the Tee

This par 4 tempts you into going for distance off the tee, but a well-placed lake forces you to make a decision—play safe or risk a big number. If you don’t hit your drive just right, water is in play. Approach shots aren’t much easier, with bunkers guarding the front.

⛳ Hole 14 (Par 4, 400 yards) – A Challenging Approach

By this point in the round, you’d think I’d have figured out how to handle approach shots. But Hole 14 had other plans. The fairway is generous, but the approach requires pinpoint accuracy to avoid trouble. It’s a classic risk-reward hole, but if you get too aggressive, you’ll pay the price.

🏆 Hole 17 (Par 3, 175 yards) – The Creek Makes You Think

A mid-iron par 3 that shouldn’t be too tricky—except for the creek right in front of the green. If you don’t commit to the shot, it’s easy to come up short and watch your ball disappear.

Playing from the Blue Tees

For an 8-handicapper, the blue tees at ~6,600 yards offer a solid challenge without being overwhelming. The biggest keys to scoring well here:
✔️ Drive the ball accurately. Fairways are narrow, and errant drives lead to punch-outs.
✔️ Respect the water. It’s lurking on key holes, and even a small mistake can cost you strokes.
✔️ Dial in approach shots. The greens are tricky, and missing in the wrong spot makes for tough up-and-downs.
✔️ Stay patient. The course rewards smart, strategic play.

Overall Rating

🌟 Challenge: 9/10 (water on key holes will test you)
🌳 Scenery: 9/10
⛳ Course Conditions: 9.5/10
🏌️ Fun Factor: 8/10 (depends on how many golf balls you lose)

Final Thoughts

Portland Golf Club is an old-school, strategic course that rewards precision and punishes reckless play. If you love thinking your way around the course, it’s a fantastic test. If you’re prone to losing golf balls, bring extra. Holes 7, 8, 11, 14, and 17 will take them from you. If you get the chance to play it, take it—you won’t be disappointed.