Course Review: Tetherow

Course Overview

Location: Bend, OR
Course Type: Public / Resort
Par & Yardage: Par 72, 7,298 yards from the tips
Rating & Slope: 74.3 rating / 145 slope from the tips
Notable Features: Dramatic elevation changes, fast and firm fescue fairways, panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains, and a true links-style layout not commonly found in the Pacific Northwest.

Quick Take: Tetherow is one of the most striking and challenging public-access courses in Oregon. With a bold, links-inspired design by David McLay Kidd (of Bandon Dunes), it offers a high-desert experience that’s rugged, scenic, and loaded with character. Every hole is visually stunning and demands thoughtful shot-making — especially when the wind picks up.

Detailed Course Breakdown:

Course Difficulty – [Rating: 9/10]

Who’s it best for? This course is geared toward experienced and confident golfers. The firm conditions, undulating fairways, and fast greens can be tough on high handicappers, but players who embrace creative shot-making will find it incredibly rewarding.
Key challenges: Tetherow demands control and imagination — from navigating tightly mown runoffs to reading subtle green complexes. Wind is often a factor, and many fairways slope away from ideal landing areas. Precision off the tee is key, and recovery shots often require touch rather than power.
Tee box breakdown: Five sets of tees provide options, but even the middle tees can feel long and punishing if you’re not striking it well. The front tees offer a friendlier option for those newer to the game.
Pro Tip: “Bring your ground game. Approach shots that land short and bounce up tend to work better than flying everything to the flag — especially in the summer when it’s baked out.”

Scenery – [Rating: 9/10]

Overall vibe: Expansive views of the Three Sisters and Mount Bachelor are visible from several vantage points. The natural high-desert terrain, lava rock outcroppings, and rolling golden fescue create a visual experience that’s both rugged and refined.
Best holes for scenery: Hole 6 features a high tee box with dramatic views of the valley below. Hole 17 is a downhill par 3 with a postcard-worthy look at the mountains, especially at sunset.
Seasonal considerations: Summer offers firm, fast playing conditions and bluebird skies. Spring and fall are equally scenic, with cooler temps and stunning light. Winters can bring snow, so the course is typically closed December through February.

Walkability – [Rating: 2/10]

Can you walk it? Technically, yes — but it’s a tough walk. Tetherow was built with carts in mind, and some green-to-tee transitions are long and steep.
Elevation changes: Substantial throughout. Expect long climbs, downhill stretches, and sidehill lies — this is not a flat course by any means.
Availability of pushcarts: Pushcarts are allowed but not commonly used. Most players opt to ride.
Pro Tip: “Save your legs and take a cart — you’ll want that energy for navigating the greens and staying sharp down the stretch as the final few holes are demanding.”

Course Conditions & Maintenance – [Rating: 9/10]

Fairway & rough condition: The firm fescue fairways roll beautifully and reward well-placed tee shots. The native grasses and waste areas are visually striking but can penalize errant shots.
Greens: Lightning quick and true. The greens are often large with multiple tiers, subtle breaks, and significant slope. Approach placement is crucial to avoid three-putts.
Bunker upkeep: Bunkers are well-maintained with consistent sand, though many are deep and penal. Smart play often means avoiding them at all costs.
Drainage in wet months: Exceptional. The course handles weather well and remains playable even after rain in spring and fall.

Pro Shop & Food Availability – [Rating: 8/10]

Pro shop selection: Tetherow’s pro shop is sleek, modern, and carries premium gear — from top apparel brands to high-end accessories. You’ll find everything you need, plus some stylish PNW flair.
Food & Drinks: The Solomon’s restaurant and The Row pub provide full-service dining with upscale and casual options, respectively. There’s also an on-course snack shack and beverage cart service.
Local food options nearby: You’re just 5 minutes from downtown Bend, with tons of local breweries, coffee shops, and great eats. A few standouts: Spork (global street food), 10 Barrel Brewing, and Jackson’s Corner.
Pro Tip: “Grab a bite at The Row after your round — their patio is a perfect spot to debrief the day and take in the high-desert sunset.”

Practice Facilities – [Rating: 8/10]

Range: Large, well-maintained grass range with mountain views. Perfect for warming up or working on full-swing mechanics.
Putting & chipping areas: Spacious putting green and a solid short-game area. While not massive, it’s more than enough to prep before the round.
Overall vibe: Everything feels dialed in — well-kept, scenic, and uncrowded. A great pre-round environment to get focused and ready.

Value for Money – [Rating: 7/10]

Greens Fee Range:
- Peak Season (Spring–Fall): $150 – $250
- Twilight Rates: ~$125 (after 3 p.m., varies by season)
- Shoulder Season/Winter: Occasionally under $100
How’s the value? Tetherow is priced as a premium golf experience — and it delivers. Between the dramatic links-style layout, top-tier conditions, and stunning setting, you're paying for one of Oregon’s most acclaimed public-access courses. While it’s on the higher end, it holds up well when compared to other high-end resort courses. Twilight rates offer a great way to play at a lower cost while still soaking in the views.
Booking Difficulty: Tee times are generally available to the public, though weekends and peak-season days (especially June–September) can fill up fast. Booking a couple of weeks in advance is recommended, and staying at the resort can improve access and flexibility.
Pro Tip: "Want the Tetherow experience without the full resort rate? Book a weekday twilight round and enjoy golden-hour golf with Cascade views for nearly half the price."

Overall Rating: 9/10

Tetherow Golf Club offers one of the most unique and scenic golf experiences in the Pacific Northwest. With its bold, links-inspired design, stunning Cascade Mountain views, and elite-level maintenance, it’s a course that feels equally adventurous and refined. While the cost and difficulty may be a barrier for some, golfers looking for a memorable round in Central Oregon will be hard-pressed to find better.

Best For: Confident ball strikers, fans of links-style golf, scenic seekers, and anyone visiting Bend who wants a "bucket list" round in the high desert.
Would we recommend? Absolutely. Tetherow is a Central Oregon must-play — especially if you love courses with character and aren’t afraid of a challenge.