Nestled in the heart of Portland, Oregon, Eastmoreland Golf Course is a gem that has been a centerpiece of the city’s golfing scene for over a century. With its rich history, lush landscape, and challenging layout, Eastmoreland remains one of the most beloved public courses in the Pacific Northwest. For both seasoned golfers and beginners alike, this course offers a quintessential Portland golfing experience, blending nature, city, and providing a challenging yet rewarding round of golf.
A Historical Treasure
Eastmoreland Golf Course was established in 1917, making it one of the oldest golf courses in the region and the first public course in Portland. Designed by renowned architect Chandler Egan, a former U.S. Amateur champion, Eastmoreland was part of a broader push to make golf more accessible to the public during a time when the sport was still largely the domain of private country clubs.
Egan’s influence on the design is evident in the course’s natural layout, which takes full advantage of the area’s rolling hills and natural water features. With its roots in the Golden Age of golf course architecture, Eastmoreland has retained much of its original charm while evolving to meet modern standards. The course is part of the Portland Parks & Recreation system, which means it’s a publicly accessible course with affordable rates, making it a favorite among local golfers.
The course’s historical significance extends beyond just its age and design. Eastmoreland has hosted numerous important tournaments, including several Oregon State Amateur Championships. Its legacy as a competitive venue is cemented by the fact that it has produced some of Oregon’s finest golfers, including Peter Jacobsen, who would go on to win on the PGA Tour.
Course Layout and Design
Eastmoreland spans 6,529 yards from the back tees, with a par of 72. The course is known for its traditional parkland style, featuring narrow, tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and challenging water hazards. It’s a course that demands accuracy off the tee and a solid short game, as the undulating greens are well-protected and require careful approach shots.
One of the standout features of Eastmoreland is its natural beauty. The course is surrounded by the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden and Reed College, which give it a serene, picturesque setting. Mature trees line most holes, and the course’s many water features, including Crystal Springs Lake and Johnson Creek, come into play on several holes. Wildlife is abundant, and it’s not uncommon to see ducks, herons, and other birds around the water hazards.
The front nine at Eastmoreland is characterized by its relatively flat terrain and straightforward layout. However, this doesn’t mean it’s easy. The narrow fairways and well-placed bunkers make accuracy key, especially on holes like the 4th, a 400-yard par 4 that doglegs left around a lake. A misplaced drive here can easily find the water or the thick trees that line the left side of the fairway.
The back nine is where Eastmoreland really starts to show its teeth. The terrain becomes more undulating, and the holes become more strategic. The 13th hole, a par 5, is a classic risk-reward hole, where long hitters can go for the green in two but must navigate a creek that cuts across the fairway. The 16th hole, a par 4, is one of the toughest on the course. At 437 yards from the back tees, it requires a long, accurate drive to a narrow fairway, followed by an uphill approach to a well-bunkered green.
Water comes into play on eight holes, adding an extra layer of difficulty, particularly for those unfamiliar with the course. Johnson Creek, which runs through the course, is a frequent nemesis for golfers, especially on holes like the 8th and 12th, where it can catch errant shots and turn a par attempt into a bogey or worse.
The Signature Hole
Every great course has a signature hole that stands out and leaves a lasting impression, and for Eastmoreland, it’s undoubtedly the par-3 17th. Elevated tee boxes and measuring 195 yards from the back tees, this hole requires a precise tee shot over water to a small, well-guarded green. With trees framing the shot and a creek running alongside the hole, it’s both visually stunning and mentally intimidating. The 17th is often cited as one of the most picturesque holes in Portland and is a true test of a golfer’s nerves, especially late in the round.
Course Conditions and Maintenance
For a public course, Eastmoreland is exceptionally well-maintained, particularly considering the high volume of golfers that play here. The greens are generally fast and true, though they can become challenging during the rainy months when the course tends to play softer. The fairways are lush, thanks to Portland’s frequent rainfall, but they are also well-drained, so the course remains playable year-round. However, during the wet season, some areas can get boggy, particularly around Johnson Creek.
Eastmoreland has a full-time grounds crew dedicated to maintaining the course’s conditions, and their hard work shows. The bunkers are consistently raked, and the greens are regularly rolled to ensure a smooth putting surface. However, like many municipal courses, the occasional divot or unrepaired ball mark can be found, particularly during peak play times. Still, the overall conditioning of Eastmoreland is impressive for a course that sees so much traffic.
Facilities and Amenities
Eastmoreland offers a range of facilities to enhance the golfing experience. The clubhouse, though modest, is charming and has a rich, old-school feel that reflects the course’s long history. Inside, you’ll find a fully-stocked pro shop with everything from apparel to equipment, as well as a small restaurant that serves up basic fare like burgers, sandwiches, and cold drinks — perfect for grabbing a quick bite before or after your round.
For those looking to work on their game, Eastmoreland provides a driving range and a practice putting green. The range is a bit limited in terms of space, but it’s adequate for a pre-round warm-up or some quick practice. The putting green is large and well-maintained, providing a good place to get a feel for the speed of the greens before your round.
Eastmoreland also offers golf lessons and clinics for players of all skill levels, making it an excellent place for beginners to learn the game or for more experienced golfers to fine-tune their skills. The friendly, knowledgeable staff in the pro shop are always happy to help with equipment recommendations or course strategy tips.
Affordability and Accessibility
One of the greatest strengths of Eastmoreland is its affordability. As a municipal course, Eastmoreland offers some of the best rates in the city, making it accessible to golfers of all income levels. For Portland residents, the weekday green fees range from $40-$55, with lower rates for juniors and seniors. On weekends, rates are slightly higher, but still very reasonable considering the quality of the course. Discounts are also available for twilight rounds, which can be a great option during the long summer evenings in Portland.
For those looking to play regularly, Eastmoreland offers membership and punch card options that provide even more savings. This makes it a popular choice for local golfers who want a high-quality course without breaking the bank.
Another advantage of Eastmoreland is its location. Situated just minutes from downtown Portland, the course is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. The nearby MAX light rail station and bus stops make it convenient for golfers who don’t want to drive, and there’s plenty of parking available for those who do. The course’s central location also makes it an ideal spot for golfers visiting from out of town, as it’s close to many of Portland’s top attractions.
Challenges and Opportunities
While Eastmoreland has much to offer, it’s not without its challenges. The course can get crowded, particularly on weekends and during the summer months, leading to slow play at times. Tee times can be difficult to secure on short notice, so it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
The weather in Portland can also be a factor, as the Pacific Northwest is known for its rain. While the course holds up well in wet conditions, rounds played during the rainy season can be less enjoyable, with soggy fairways and slower greens. However, for those willing to brave the elements, Eastmoreland is playable year-round, and the cooler, wet months often mean fewer crowds and quicker rounds.
One area where Eastmoreland could improve is in modernizing its facilities. While the course itself is beautifully maintained, the clubhouse and practice areas could benefit from some updates. Expanding the driving range and adding more modern amenities would elevate the overall experience, especially for out-of-town visitors.
Final Verdict: A Must-Play in Portland
Eastmoreland Golf Course is more than just a place to play a round of golf — it’s a piece of Portland’s history. The course’s classic design, combined with its natural beauty and affordable rates, make it a must-play for any golfer visiting the area. Whether you’re a local looking for a regular spot to tee it up or a visitor hoping to experience one of Portland’s finest public courses, Eastmoreland delivers on all fronts.
With its challenging layout, stunning scenery, and rich history, Eastmoreland offers a unique and enjoyable golfing experience that captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest. From the narrow fairways lined with towering trees to the water hazards that wind their way through the course, every round at Eastmoreland is an adventure. It’s a course that rewards strategy and precision, but also offers moments of serenity and beauty that make it a favorite among Portland golfers.
In a city known for its vibrant culture, food, and natural beauty, Eastmoreland Golf Course stands out as a classic, timeless attraction that has been delighting golfers for over 100 years.