Back to all posts

Black Butte Ranch: Peak Central Oregon Golf

Few destinations capture the spirit of Central Oregon golf like Black Butte Ranch. Set on 1,800 scenic acres at the eastern edge of the Cascades near Sisters, the Ranch blends sweeping mountain views, towering ponderosa pines, and wide-open meadows with 36 holes of championship golf and a lively 12-hole putting course. The result is an easy-to-reach getaway that feels far removed from the everyday.

Big Meadow Opens Early—and Shines

Big Meadow has opened early this spring in excellent condition, thanks to a favorable winter and meticulous agronomy. The 7,002-yard layout by legendary architect Robert Muir Graves has long been a Northwest favorite, and it enters the season refreshed following a comprehensive bunker renovation.

All of the course’s cape-and-bay bunkers have been rebuilt with crisp edges, modern liners, and bright white sand, restoring Graves’ original vision while improving playability for golfers of all skill levels. Broad fairways, panoramic Cascade views, and thoughtfully contoured greens create a layout that rewards strategy without overwhelming the everyday player. It’s classic Central Oregon golf—scenic, playable, and memorable enough to inspire repeat rounds.

Glaze Meadow & Little Meadow: Variety for Every Group

Complementing Big Meadow is Glaze Meadow, redesigned by John Fought with Golden Age inspiration. Grass-faced bunkers, turtleback greens, and generous landing areas provide strategic interest while remaining welcoming and walkable. It’s a course capable of challenging accomplished players while ensuring mixed-ability groups enjoy the experience from first tee to final putt.

Little Meadow, the Ranch’s 12-hole putting course designed by Fought, has quickly become a social centerpiece. With short holes and a reversible routing, it’s ideal for settling friendly wagers, introducing kids to the game, or capping a 36-hole day with a drink in hand. The atmosphere is relaxed, inclusive, and distinctly Central Oregon.

A Getaway That Fits Your Style

Close enough for a long weekend yet immersive enough to feel like a true escape, Black Butte Ranch sits just minutes from Sisters and a short drive from Bend. It’s a natural fit for buddies’ trips, family vacations, corporate retreats, and group outings. Popular Tournament weekends—including the Spring B.A.R. and other Ranch-hosted events—add a competitive spark.

Spring guests can take advantage of the Annual Cap Special in April and attractive Stay & Play packages, making it easy to turn a couple of rounds into a full Ranch experience.

Beyond the Fairways

For more than 50 years, Black Butte Ranch has been a Northwest staple because it offers far more than exceptional golf. Five swimming pools, a full-service spa, horseback riding, paddleboarding, fly-fishing, tennis, and miles of walking and biking paths ensure there’s something for everyone.

The recently reimagined Lodge serves as the Ranch’s centerpiece, pairing stunning views with elevated yet comfortable dining at the Lodge Restaurant and Aspen Lounge. Casual favorites like Robert’s Pub and the Lakeside Bistro round out the culinary scene with relaxed, post-round fare featuring local craft beer, regional wines, and fresh mountain air.

In short, Black Butte Ranch remains what it has always been: a place where championship golf and the Central Oregon lifestyle meet in perfect balance—especially with Big Meadow in outstanding condition and a new season underway.