Quail Ridge Golf Course

General Course Description

Quail Ridge Golf Course is an 18-hole public course just south of Baker City. Quail Ridge Golf Course is a course of two parts (but not two 9s). The older holes in the area next to the clubhouse are flat, generally short, narrow, and tree-lined. The newer holes are very open and longer, undulating, with more traps and water. This matches the two designers of the course: George Junor and Bill Robinson. Overall the course is somewhat short and well maintained, with good views of the Blue Mountains. The friendly staff provides a laid-back family feel (I did see some fivesomes). The course is a little hilly, but okay to walk.

Course History

The original 9 holes were built in 1936 by the WPA. The second 9 was built in 1999. The course was originally called The Municipal Golf Links, then, in the late 1930s, the City Golf Club, and then the Baker City Golf Club.

Why It Is There

Baker City wanted a course and the WPA was willing to build it. It is now the only course between Union and Vale.

I Wish I Would Have Known Before I Played

There are a few traps that you cannot see that come into play (especially on 7, 16, and 18). Study the map on the scorecard carefully.

Did You Know

The on-course restroom with the good view is called “Hank’s Castle.” Hank is Hank McAdams, a long-time player who built the improved restroom.  Also, the pro, Michael Books, grew up near the course and started playing golf at the course.

Good For Them

The course has a teaching-kids program, with instruction and free clubs and use of the course for juniors. The course also has reduced rates for parents accompanying juniors on certain nights. It is the home course for Baker City High School. Annual charity events include the Pat Clubb Memorial Golf Tournament providing scholarships to Blue Mountain Community College and the Blackers Memorial to benefit various non-profits in Baker County.

Why Play This Course

There are many good reasons to visit Baker City (the historic downtown, the mountains, the Oregon Trail Center). If you are in the area, it is a nice, laid-back, well-maintained course to enjoy at a nice price, designed by two important Oregon golf course architects.

General

• Type: 18-hole public course
• Price: $$
• Phone/webpage: (541)523-2358/www.quailridgebakercity.com
• Address:  2801 Indiana Avenue, Baker City, Oregon 97814
• Owner: City of Baker
• Designer: George Junor (first 9), and Bill Robinson (second 9)
• Pros: Michael S. Brooks (PGA)
• Practice Facilities: Hitting net, chipping area, and practice green
• Pro Shop: Minimal, balls and tees, some clothes and equipment
• Food: Lunch sandwiches, soda and beer; a nice patio overlooks the 18th green
• Bathrooms: Improved in clubhouse and on the course
• Yardage Markers: 200, 150, and 100 (short) poles in fairway; pins color-coded for placement
• Clothing: Be dressed
• Walkable: Hilly but walkable
• Spikes: Soft
• Shoe Cleaning: Brush
• Rentals:  All
• May be closed in winter