What is Disc Golf: New course installed at Metzler Park

We are pleased to announce the opening of a new Disc Golf Course with TRACK Trails accompaniment at Metzler Park, OR.

The new Metzler Park Nature Trail Disc Golf Course utilizes a mixture of open and wooded fairways that will challenge both beginner and expert level disc golfers. Depending on the season, there are two course layouts for visitors: the “Summer Course” (Front 9) and “Winter Course” (Full 18).

Whatever the season, players can use the tee-signs and scorecards to learn about and connect with the natural elements found in the Park. Each of the tee-signs offers information about the rules of play for that hole; as well as an interpretive message and a Pro-Tip from the 2017 U.S. Disc Golf Champion, Nate Sexton.

Disc golf, often described as a hybrid of a traditional golf course played with a specialized frisbee, is a rapidly growing sport that combines the strategic elements of golf with the fun and accessibility of frisbee. Players use specially designed frisbees or “discs” to navigate a course and aim to land their disc in a metal basket, which acts as the target or “hole.” The objective is to complete the course with the fewest number of throws, akin to strokes in traditional golf. Courses can vary in length and difficulty, featuring different terrains and obstacles such as trees, water hazards, and elevation changes, adding to the challenge and enjoyment of the game.

Two of the sport’s key attractions are its accessibility and affordability. Unlike traditional golf, which often requires costly memberships, greens fees, and equipment, disc golf courses are frequently located in public parks and are free to play. A basic set of discs is relatively inexpensive, making it easy for newcomers to get started. The low barrier to entry, combined with the physical and mental benefits of navigating outdoor courses, has made disc golf an appealing recreational activity. As a result, the sport continues to expand drawing a diverse community of players and enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of strategy, skill, and enjoyment of nature with a healthy outdoor activity.

The origins of disc golf date back to the early 20th century, but it gained significant traction in the 1970s when “Steady” Ed Headrick, often referred to as the “father of disc golf,” formalized the sport. Headrick developed the first standardized disc and designed the iconic chain basket target that is now a staple on courses worldwide. Today, disc golf is played by millions of people of all ages and skill levels. It boasts an organized structure with local clubs, national associations, and professional tours.

At the Mezler Park course, you can play and learn more about the natural environment while there.

Metzler Park is located approximately five miles south of Estacada along beautiful Clear Creek. Although it is a short drive from several communities in Clackamas County, this park feels wonderfully isolated, surrounded by hills covered with towering Douglas-fir and western red cedar trees.

To learn more about Oregon Parks Forever visit www.orparksforever.org

Discover Disc Golf in Oregon

TRACK Trails are a type of environmental treasure hunt for young children and their families to become more active outdoors. It offers a series of self-guided activities that turn an ordinary hike into a fun-filled, discovery-packed adventure. Each trail will have four brochures available that help kids learn about topics such as birds, trees, flowers, ferns and animal tracks. The trails also provide families with multiple opportunities to learn about the natural, cultural, and historical resources at each site. We are committed to install 50 Track Trail Adventures in Oregon.

To find more TRACK Trails in Oregon check out kidsinparks.com