Golf season at Black Butte Ranch just getting warmed up

For many golfers in Central Oregon, the best time of year for golf is just beginning

Ask a Central Oregonian when his or her favorite time to play a round of golf and the answer is nearly unanimous. Sure as a tap-in for par, a local will tell you it is the late summer and early fall.

A visit to Black Butte Ranch between late August through the middle of October often reveals why. The average high temperature at Black Butte Ranch remains at 70 degrees or above through Oct. 2 and 65 degrees or above through Oct. 12. The rain stays away, too. August and September are on average two of the three driest months of the year, and October is just a touch damper, averaging less than an inch of rain for the entire month.

And because Black Butte Ranch chooses not to aerify until late in the season, both Big Meadow and Glaze Meadow remain in enviable playing condition right up until the final weeks of the golf season.

Then there are the more obvious reasons. Things tend to slow down at Black Butte Ranch after Labor Day, once the kids have gone back to school. And the beauty of the season is unmistakable, especially when the leaves of the aspens begin to turn.

“We definitely see more Central Oregon residents this time of year than any other time,” said Jeff Fought, Black Butte Ranch’s director of golf. “Everything is just a bit quieter this time of year, and locals tend to take advantage.”

Group golfers are often attracted to Black Butte Ranch this time of year, too.

One reason is that with the summer crowds gone, the tee sheet at both Big Meadow and Glaze Meadow tends to open up a bit. Another is that with the kids back in school, a friends trip to Central Oregon becomes a bit easier for many.

“There is little doubt that group play really picks up this time of year,” said Jeff Fought, director of golf at Black Butte Ranch. “It makes perfect sense. The weather is usually ideal for golf and groups can have a little more freedom to play when they want. And the mild weather actually helps foster turf growth, leaving both courses in excellent condition.”

Black Butte Ranch wants to foster such trips, of course. For instance, book a round of golf or bring a group of nine or more in August and receive 25 percent off a cabin, home, or condo when you book your stay with the Black Butte Ranch rental program. With a group of nine or more, golf is just $64 per person, and the rate includes 18 holes of golf, cart, and range balls. Offer valid after 11 a.m. on Sun or any time Mon-Wed Through Aug. 31.  

More golf specials will come in September and October, including stay-and-play packages that include unlimited golf.

Of course, locals are always welcome, too. And they can take advantage of our special rate after 11 a.m. on Sunday or any time on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday through August. Golfers are invited to play Big Meadow or Glaze Meadow for just $69. The rate includes cart.

The bottom line is that Labor Day is no time to put away the golf clubs? Don’t miss a chance to play Black Butte Ranch during what is arguably the best time of year.

The best rates are found by booking a tee time online. Or you can book by phone by calling 855-210-5305, or the Golf Shop at 541-595-1545. To plan a group trip, contact Tobias Colvin at GolfGroups@BlackButteRanch.com or call 541-595-1292.