Skamania Lodge – bringing the game forward for all
Nestled in the woods of the Columbia River Gorge just 45 miles east of Portland, Skamania Lodge has long been a popular resort getaway featuring golf, hiking and more. But what Skamania has done in recent years to reimagine its entire landscape has created one of the most appealing backyards in the Pacific Northwest neighborhood.
Starting with a revision of its 18-hole golf course to a more enjoyable and time-conscious golf experience, and continuing with treehouse accommodations, ziplines, ropes courses and axe-throwing, The Backyard at Skamania has an outdoor experience for everyone.
“As we built our master plan, we wanted to transition from a golf concept to more of this backyard concept,” said Ken Daugherty, Skamania’s general manager. “And we wanted a golf experience that was more geared towards our guests.”
With a vision for a modern golf experience, Skamania reimagined its previous 18-hole course and driving range into three gems: the Gorge 9, the Little Eagle 18 – an 18-hole putting course designed over 2.5 acres – and a new 18-hole disc golf course.
The Gorge 9, a centerpiece of The Backyard, features four sets of tees and can be played in about 90 minutes. It also features synthetic turf greens that allow for year-round playability and puts the course in alignment with the Lodge’s sustainability focus.
“We wanted our guests to have the option to experience as much of what we offer as they want,” said Guy Puddefoot, the director of golf. “It used to be, ‘Do I play golf and consume the whole day, or do I skip golf?’ We are now providing a much more time-friendly experience so you don’t have to make that decision.”
With the new golf facilities completed in 2021, next up for The Backyard is a new pavilion next to the putting course that will accommodate 120 people. A grill and smoker will provide traditional cookout fare, from brisket and hamburgers to barbecue chicken and ribs. Also in the works are horseshoe pits and three new treehouses.
Puddefoot has seen every change and evolution of Skamania Lodge since he started at the resort upon its opening in 1993. With the revamp of the golf course and the development of The Backyard, he feels Skamania now offers the perfect experience for groups and families alike, no matter your experience level.
“If I were to create this lodge all over again, I would do it exactly as we have it right now.”
Be a winner at Skamania Lodge
No matter your skill level you will love the game at Skamania. Winning is easy whether you are solo, with your friends, or in a big group. Check out the course and the fun events that are planned.
- Get Shorty Tournament – July 17
- Flip Flop Putting Tournament – August 14
- Three Club Fun Club Tournament – September 10
- Spooky Pumpkin Putting – October 29
Skamania Lodge
1131 SW Skamania Lodge Way
Stevenson, WA 98648
844.432.4748
For offers and packages, event updates, and more visit skamania.com.
Follow them on social: @skamania
