Tokatee

There is a magical oasis of golf tucked away in the McKenzie River Valley and it goes by the very fitting Chinook name of Tokatee, meaning: restful place of beauty. Tokatee was built in the 1960s and since day one, has been owned and operated by the same golf-loving family. Surrounded by thick forested hillsides and nestled deep in the Cascades, you would call this a mountain course by any stretch. The location, however, was carefully chosen and designed along a peaceful valley floor avoiding any uncomfortable elevation changes and making this a walkable track for most golfers.

Every bit of the golfing experience at Tokatee is intended to be relaxing and enjoyable, all while challenging even the lowest of handicaps. Looming tree-lined fairways and topographical green complexes will keep you focused on your game while the mountains peek through and try their best to distract you. The tranquility of the valley and those expansive mountain views will remind you of your place in this beautiful world. Zen golf at it’s finest. And most importantly, this is affordable golf and welcoming to all.

Pros:
Serene setting - not a structure to be seen besides the golf facilities
Affordable - ranging from twilight 9 at $32 up to prime time 18 at $63
Walkable - rickshaws available
Golf board rentals available for the brave
Lovely warm-up area with range, putting and chipping greens
Coffee shop/lunch counter with plenty of options for everyone
Warm and welcoming pro shop environment and staff
Great layout - challenging but scorable
Forward tees at 4800 yards - a great distance for many women
Greens are in excellent shape
Tranquility for days!

Things to know:
Restrooms are located at the turn after #9
The gap between yellow and white tees is around 1000 yards - it would be nice to see a combo option
It’s a bit of a drive to get there. Consider staying in McKenzie Bridge and making a trip out of it
With dry fairways and mountain air you may not need as much club as you think on most shots

Watching that little white ball rise against an evergreen backdrop is a view I covet and one I certainly don’t take for granted. The big fire in 2020 came dangerously close to stealing this gem of a course from us all. Be grateful we still have her and do your part to prevent wildfires.