Bandon Dunes and its five courses (including a par 3 course) situated along Oregon’s rugged coast, make it one of the world’s great golf destinations, yet few are aware of the extraordinary golf available in the high desert of central Oregon.  I had a chance to visit both areas over the last few months.

Bandon Preserve

Bandon Preserve, designed by Coore & Crenshaw is one of the great par 3 courses in the world.

Bandon Dunes

This photograph of the 5th is one of my favorite images of the year, so far… It was a mostly overcast and foggy morning at Bandon Dunes, not unusual for this coastal area.  As luck would have it, the sun broke out for what seemed like moments.  Fortunately, I was anticipating just such an opportunity and was able to capture a few shots before the overcast conditions returned

Bandon Trails

Old Macdonald

The 7th Hole at Old Macdonald. Designed by Tom Doak as a tribute to CB Macdonald, one of the great golf course architects of the early 20th century.

Nicklaus Course at Pronghorn

There’s a wonderful diversity of golf around Bend, and Pronghorn offers a great high desert experience. The late afternoon light on the par 5 15th of The Nicklaus Course on this particular day was magical.

Tetherow Golf Club

I’ve always been an admirer of David McLay Kidd‘s golf courses and Tetherow Golf Club in Bend is one I’ve had my eye on photographing for years.  I finally got my opportunity in June and it did not disappoint.  The rugged beauty of this links-like golf course with the backdrop of the mountains is fabulous.

Evan 

The featured photograph at the top of this article is the 13th Hole at Pacific Dunes.