June 6th in Save Some Green.
Save Some Green: Riverbend Golf Complex
Riverbend Golf Complex
Operated by the city of Kent, the Riverbend Golf Complex — featuring a championship, 18-hole course, plus a par-3 course, driving range and mini golf course, is one of the best values in the region.
The best news is, if you’ve played it before, you’re in for a treat — after more than six months of closures to move back levies along the Green River, Riverbend is scheduled to reopen its front nine Mar. 28. Original architect John Steidel was brought in to oversee the $750,000 renovation project and ensure that the necessary changes to the course’s fourth through ninth holes did not affect the integrity of his original design.
That’s good news to the Riverbend faithful, who have long taken advantage of the course’s playable distance and straightforward holes for an enjoyable — and, at as low as $15 in twilight hours, easily affordable — round of golf.
It should be of little surprise that at a course with water in its name, the wet stuff abounds. Indeed, only six of Riverbend’s 18 holes do not play to, from or alongside one of the course’s four water features, including three lakes and the aforementioned Green River, which meanders through and around Steidel’s footprint.
By all accounts, Riverbend’s renovated design won’t vary significantly from its original course. A relatively flat and open layout features enough trees to keep things interesting, but not so many as to require Tour-like precision as you work your way around. It’s above all a fair course — make good shots, and ye shall be rewarded. Heck, you can even miss a few and it won’t punish you too harshly.
All in all, it’s a fun round that won’t overly tax your game, your feet, or your wallet. Throw in the mini golf course and par-3 course, and Riverbend is an even better value for golfers with any amount of time — or family members — on their hands.
After your round, be sure to visit the FireCreek Grill for the Strawberry Mascarpone, a mouth-melting dessert featuring sponge cake, jam, strawberries and mascarpone cream. Now that’s how to finish strong.
BEST HOLE
There’s no topping the 548-yard 18th, both for challenge and beauty. Water and sand threaten both your first and second shots, but it’s the stunning figure of Mt. Rainier towering over the green that will distract you on your final approach.
