(BLACK BUTTE RANCH, Ore.)—Nestled at the base of the majestic Cascade Range in Central Oregon, Black Butte Ranch continues to prove why it’s one of the Pacific Northwest’s most beloved and enduring golf destinations. After a favorable winter, Black Butte Ranch’s 36 holes of championship mountain golf are getting off to an early start. And with a family-friendly putting course and a sparkling new lodge enhancing the overall experience, Black Butte Ranch is poised to shine as bright as ever in 2026.
At the heart of the Ranch are two distinctly different, yet equally captivating championship golf courses — Big Meadow and Glaze Meadow. Together, they offer a compelling blend of stunning scenery, playability, and challenge that makes Black Butte Ranch an ideal destination for golfers of every age and skill level.
Big Meadow: A Classic Rejuvenated
Originally unveiled in 1970 by legendary architect Robert Muir Graves, Big Meadow helped define Central Oregon as a top-tier golf destination. With fairways framed by towering Ponderosa pines, sweeping mountain views, and welcoming landing areas, Big Meadow remains one of the most beloved layouts in the region.
Big Meadow, which opened for the season in early March, steps into a new chapter following the completion of a comprehensive bunker renovation project, restoring and refining Graves’ original vision by refreshing all 65 of the course’s cape-and-bay bunkering. Especially prominent on the iconic par-4 14th hole with views of Three Fingered Jack, each bunker has been thoughtfully updated to enhance both aesthetics and playability.
Best of all, at 7,002 yards from the tips, Big Meadow is approachable for novices yet capable of testing the best, making it a true all-ages classic.
Glaze Meadow: A Golden Era Tribute
Glaze Meadow has enjoyed a remarkable second life since its 2012 redesign by architect John Fought, who transformed the original 1982 design by Gene “Bunny” Mason into a stunning tribute to the “Golden Era” of golf architecture. Named Golf Inc. Magazine’s Renovation of the Year in 2013, Fought’s vision brought rectangular tees, large grass-faced bunkers, and turtleback greens — timeless features reminiscent of Donald Ross and Harry Colt — to the heart of Central Oregon.
Spanning 7,007 yards, Glaze Meadow offers ample shotmaking opportunities while remaining forgiving off the tee with its generous fairways. Its layout is as enjoyable to walk as it is to play, winding through vibrant meadows as well as groves of aspen and pine.
With five sets of tees, including family-friendly options, Glaze Meadow ensures every golfer can feel at home. And the beauty of the three-hole stretch around the Glaze Meadow will be etched into any golfer’s memory.
Little Meadow: Big Fun for Everyone
In 2020, Fought returned to design Little Meadow, a creative and fun-filled 12-hole putting course set beside Big Meadow. With holes ranging from 45 to 105 feet and a reversible layout, Little Meadow provides a relaxed yet engaging experience perfect for families, beginners, or post-round entertainment. It’s golf at its most approachable, and a shining example of the all-ages appeal that defines Black Butte Ranch.
More Than Just Great Golf
Complementing its celebrated golf offerings, Black Butte Ranch is home to a gorgeous new lodge that opened in 2023, providing modern aesthetics, upscale dining, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The Lodge Restaurant was even named one of The 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America by OpenTable and People Magazine.
Add in five swimming pools, award-winning restaurants, a wide range of accommodations, a full-service spa, and miles of hiking and biking trails, and it’s clear why this 1,800-acre resort has been a family favorite for more than 50 years.
For those in search of a tranquil, scenic, and endlessly playable golf retreat, Black Butte Ranch delivers an unforgettable experience that honors the game’s heritage while welcoming the next generation of players.
To book a tee time, call 541-595-1500 or visit www.blackbutteranch.com/golf/tee-time.
