McMenamins Edgefield Golf Course

Imagine a place where the classic gentleman's game meets the cozy atmosphere of a historic estate. Edgefield Golf Club is more than just a sports venue; it’s part of the unique McMenamins resort located in the picturesque town of Troutdale. Set on the grounds of a former farm, this USA destination blends a vintage spirit with modern leisure opportunities.

The club offers guests two par-3 courses: 9 holes and 20 holes. These courses are famous for their accessibility—perfect both for professionals looking to sharpen their short game and for beginners picking up a club for the first time. Holes ranging from 43 to 84 yards wind through lush blackberry thickets and fruit orchards, offering players panoramic views of the majestic Columbia River Gorge.

A standout feature of Edgefield is its literary inspiration: the course design references mythical imagery from Michael Murphy's novel "Golf in the Kingdom". Today, this site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and serves as a hub for tourists who appreciate unique architecture, craft beer, and a relaxed outdoor experience in Oregon.

For more details on bookings or tee times, you can use the club's official contact information.

The main draw here is, of course, playing golf on one of the two scenic courses. Be sure to test your skills at the famous "Jail Shot" hole, named after the old jail that once stood on these grounds. After your round, stop by the clubhouse, located in a converted root cellar, to sample signature drinks from the local distillery.

Beyond sports, Edgefield offers plenty of other entertainment. You can go for a tasting at the local winery, visit the brewery, or enjoy dinner at the Black Rabbit restaurant. In the evening, the estate comes alive with live music: legends like B.B. King and Ringo Starr have performed at the local concert venue over the years.

Don't forget to simply wander the grounds. You can find several secret bars tucked away in the most unexpected spots, like the Little Red Shed, which is housed in a former incinerator building. Every building is adorned with unique murals and art installations that tell the story of this remarkable place, turning a simple stroll into a real scavenger hunt.

Getting to this unique destination from Portland is easy, as the club is located just 16 miles (about 25 kilometers) from the city. The most convenient way is by car. Drive east on highway I-84 and take exit 16 for Troutdale, then follow SW Halsey St. Ample free parking is provided for guests on the resort grounds.

If you prefer public transportation, you can use the TriMet bus system or the MAX light rail to Troutdale. However, keep in mind that you will need to walk about 2–3 kilometers from the nearest stops to the club itself or take a taxi. Given the distance between various locations at the resort, renting a car remains the most comfortable option for travelers.

The history of this place didn't begin with leisure and sports. In 1911, the Multnomah County Poor Farm was established here—a government institution designed to provide shelter and work for the destitute. The 340-acre property featured orchards, butcher shops, and even a tuberculosis hospital. Back then, the farm was almost entirely self-sufficient and, during successful years, even turned a profit for the local treasury.

Over time, the farm was transformed into a nursing home, but by the mid-1980s, the buildings had fallen into disrepair and were declared unfit for use. The historic complex was saved from total demolition by the Troutdale Historical Society, which fought for five years to preserve the site. Their efforts were successful, and the property was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

A new chapter began in 1990 when it was purchased by brothers Mike and Brian McMenamin, who are famous for their talent for transforming abandoned buildings into quirky hotels and pubs. They preserved the spirit of the past while creatively reimagining the space: for instance, the golfers' clubhouse is now located in the former root cellar, and one of the most popular bars on the property occupies an old disinfection shack.

Today, Edgefield Golf Club is an integral part of this massive historic resort. The courses themselves were inspired by literary imagery from Michael Murphy's novel "Golf in the Kingdom", giving the game here a special, almost mystical feel that blends harmoniously with the landscape of the old Oregon farm.

To complete one of the golf courses (9 or 20 holes), you will need between 1 and 2 hours. The time depends largely on your skill level and the size of your group. If you are a beginner and decide to stop by the clubhouse to discuss the game over a drink, feel free to add another hour to your visit.

However, we recommend setting aside half a day or even a full day for your visit. The Edgefield grounds are so vast and packed with interesting spots—from wineries to art installations—that a quick visit will make you miss out on much of the experience. Many guests choose to stay overnight to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the historic estate.

The golf course welcomes guests daily, allowing you to enjoy a game on both weekdays and weekends. The club's official operating hours are 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM seven days a week.

Please note that hours may change depending on the season and weather conditions. Before your trip, it is recommended to check for the latest information on the official McMenamins resort website or call ahead to confirm course availability.

A visit to the golf club is just one part of what this hospitable area has to offer. Within just a few minutes' walk or a short drive, you will find many interesting spots to complement your cultural and gastronomic itinerary.