Course Details

Design

The 9-hole executive course was built as part of the Salemtowne housing development in 1967 by James G. Watts (who built Oregon State University’s Gill Coliseum). The development is modeled after Del Webb’s “Sun City” complex near Los Angeles. The course is an integral part of the community, which essentially saved the course in the 1970s.

The course has three sets of tees (Blue, White & Red), whether for different skill levels or 18-hole play. Every green is raised and has at least one bunker next to it. Most holes are open, and although houses line almost every hole, trees and distance generally prevent them from coming into play.  However, the trees, bunkers and ponds do require accuracy to score well. There are some distances between holes, but the short course is a nice walk. and the course offers an occasional glimpse of Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson.

 Play

The play of golf is coordinated totally by volunteers. There is no pro in the golf shop; however, volunteers are scheduled as Tee Timers in the Golf Shop every afternoon from noon until 5 p.m. from April through October 31. There are no scheduled activities between November and April 1 so play is open all the time. From April 1 through October 31, the golf calendar lists regularly planned events.

No Tee Times

There are no tee times.  The course is readily available in the afternoons all year, except when a special tournament is in progress.  There is a regular group of men who play most mornings beginning about 8:30 a.m. New participants are welcome or a person can tee off after the men begin play.

There are active Men’s and Women’s golf groups.  Tuesday morning is reserved for the men’s club (SMGC).  Wednesday morning is reserved for the women’s club (SWGA).  Thursday morning is reserved for mens’ Ball in a Hat followed by womens’ Ball in a Bonnet.  

Both clubs hold special tournaments and other activities periodically throughout the year. The Golf Committee holds three, two-day holiday tournaments: Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day.  There are typically also couples’ tournaments two Friday mornings a month.  Check the golf calendar for the dates.