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Golf Course Review & Scouting Report

Awbrey Glen Golf Club

74

Bend, Oregon

Established
1993
Architect
Gene 'Bunny' Mason (original), David McLay Kidd (master plan/renovation)
Access
Private
Par
Par 72
Length
5,244 – 7,019 yds
The verdict

Pine-Framed Bend Private Experience

Awbrey Glen shines as a well-respected, regionally appealing private retreat—scenic and demanding, with a focus on member experience over public acclaim. The routing’s blend of dramatic terrain, pines, and refined club amenities makes it a favorite among Central Oregon’s serious golfers. Not a national destination, but a must for anyone tapping into Bend’s private club scene.

Course DNA
Difficulty
78
Scenery
81
Conditioning
83
Shot Variety
72
Walkability
66
Green Complexity
69
Wow Factor
72
Design Quality
68
Don't miss

Make time for a loop on the members-only five-hole par-3 course, which showcases fun shotmaking and scenic views in a quick format.

At a glance

Quick facts

Elevation
Over 3,500 feet above sea level
Architect Update
Master plan by David McLay Kidd
Signature Par 5
Dramatic downhill 18th finishing hole
Par-3 Course
Exclusive 5-hole Members' Loop
Hosted Events
2011 Oregon Open, 1995 NW Open
Dramatic Terrain
Rock outcroppings and elevation shifts
Setting
Lodgepole pine forest in Northwest Bend
Learning Center
Modern full-length practice facilities
The design

The architecture

Awbrey Glen’s architecture weaves classic Northwest mountain elements into a modern private club test: tree-lined fairways, natural lava outcroppings, and significant elevation changes frame several holes while demanding a complete game. Gene 'Bunny' Mason’s original routing maximizes dynamic landforms and views, while David McLay Kidd’s master plan added polish, playability, and contemporary shot values. Greens and surrounds reward precision, and the layout’s variety ensures no two holes feel alike through the shifting terrain.

Mason’s original vision remains core, but Kidd’s touch is visible in the refinement of the layout and continued relevance of its challenge.

Defining features
  • Intricate doglegs among pines
  • Dramatic elevation drops with panoramic views
  • Natural volcanic rock features impacting play
  • Strategically bunkered green complexes
  • Upscale, modern practice grounds
  • Playable variety from several tee sets
Hole by hole

Signature holes

Hole 5

Refurbished Risk-Reward

PAR
4
YARDAGE
410 yds

Recently transformed with input from David McLay Kidd, this mid-length par 4 demands a precise drive to a narrowing fairway with native pines pressing close. The green is defended by a dramatic bunker and subtle falloffs—setting up a second shot that tempts aggression but punishes over-confidence.

Play it smart

Favor the left side for a safer approach, but bold drivers can aim at the throat for a shorter wedge—accuracy is paramount.

Where it bites

A miss right brings trees and sand directly into play, while a left bailout can leave a challenging up-and-down to a sloped green.

Course management

Shots to think about

Deep in the pines after an offline tee shot
Prioritize a safe punch-back to fairway—don’t chase hero recovery shots.
Downhill approach on an elevated green
Club down and control trajectory to hold the surface, especially on firmer summer days.
Risky second shot on reachable par 5
Factor the wind and penalty areas—sometimes the layup saves you from a big number.
Sidehill lie in the fairway
Play for the natural curve; don't fight the slope with forced swing mechanics.
Fast green putt above the hole
Be conservative—speed here will punish anything aggressive.
Dogleg par 4 tee shot
Choose line for optimal angle, not pure length—angles matter more than distance.
On the day

What to expect

Conditions

Impeccably maintained fairways and greens with fast, smooth putting surfaces.

Pace

Efficient member-driven pace typical of private clubs.

Vibe

Understated elegance—relaxed but focused on the golf.

Dress code

Traditional private club standards; confirm with the club before arrival.

Before you tee off

Your game plan

01

Master Your Uneven Lies

Awbrey Glen’s sloping fairways and uphill/downhill shots demand creativity and practice on variable stances.

02

Pack for Changing Weather

Mountain mornings can be crisp and afternoons warm—layers help you stay focused when temperatures swing.

03

Reserve Early as a Guest

Strictly private—secure your member-hosted tee time well in advance; don’t count on walk-up access.

The lore

How it came to be

  1. 1993

    Course opens, designed by Gene 'Bunny' Mason.

  2. 1995

    Hosts Pacific Northwest PGA Northwest Open.

  3. 2010

    Master plan process initiated for course updates and improvements.

  4. 2011

    David McLay Kidd's master plan adopted; series of renovations initiated.

  5. 2011

    Hosts Oregon Open.

  6. 2013

    Major refurbishment of the fifth hole completed as part of ongoing upgrades.

Stories & legends

What makes it special

renovation

The Fifth Hole Transformation

After years of strategic planning, Awbrey Glen’s fifth hole underwent a dramatic $140,000 makeover, transforming it into a compelling test that stands out on the front nine. The project reflects the club’s commitment to member-driven course enhancements over flashy national recognition.

tournaments

Tournament Pedigree in the Pines

Awbrey Glen has hosted several significant regional tournaments, including the Oregon Open and the Pacific Northwest PGA Northwest Open, which tested some of the best pros and amateurs in the region. Despite its low profile, the course is a respected championship venue in Central Oregon circles.

membership

A True Member-First Club

Awbrey Glen is known for its tight-knit, community-focused membership culture, emphasizing the pure enjoyment of golf and continuous course improvements over chasing media buzz. This understated approach has garnered a loyal following among discerning locals.

For the group chat

Fun facts

1

The course sits over 3,500 feet in elevation, giving thin-air drives extra pop.

2

Awbrey Glen’s par-3 Members’ Loop offers a full short-game challenge distinct from the championship course.

3

Gene 'Bunny' Mason, the original architect, is a prolific Pacific Northwest designer.

4

The fifth hole’s $140,000 renovation was funded and shaped by member input, underlining the club’s community ethos.

5

Lava rock outcrops not only beautify but physically shape playing angles on multiple holes.

Build the trip

If you're building a Bend golf escape

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Resort

Elite desert-resort golf; dramatic holes and five-star service on a Jack Nicklaus landscape.

Sunriver – Crosswater Club
Resort

Epic scenery, championship history, and a blend of meadows, marsh, and pristine fairways.

Lost Tracks Golf Club
Public

Fun, accessible Bend-area round with inventive holes and surprising variety.

Black Butte Ranch – Big Meadow
Resort

Cool mountain air, beautiful scenery, and a classic Northwest golf vibe in Sisters, Oregon.

Stay in downtown or Northwest Bend for quickest access to multiple top courses, plus lodging and nightlife.

Course DNA

If You Like Awbrey Glen Golf Club

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From the community

Community Sentiment

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