Best Course Under $75: Aspen Lakes, Sisters, 541-549-4653
While most of the region’s courses ship in sand from other regions – a costly process that also runs the risk of introducing non-native pests, builders at family-owned Aspen Lakes instead built theirs from naturally available resources, crushing red cinders from the property into a fine sand to create the course’s iconic red bunkers.
What that commitment to preserving the natural environment means to golfers is breathtaking natural scenery, abundant wildlife and greens fees that run lower than many of the other tracks of equal quality in the region. A natural setting means less effort required to keep it in tip-top shape, savings that are passed on golfers in the form of greens fees that never get above $75.
And for as many birdies as there are in the trees, there are opportunities to put just as many on your scorecard. The first is a nearly reachable downhill par-4 for big hitters, while other holes require significant length – take the epic 454-yard par-4 15th – and still others reward a mix of draws and fades, bold plays and conservative approaches.
“There’s a little something for everyone,” says Berg. “It’s a lot of fun.”
As you watch the eagles soar above the lake left of the 12th green, you’re reminded just how much of the Central Oregon golf experience is owed to an incredible environment — and appreciate a locally-owned course that is making an active effort to give back.