When most Oregonians think of the country between the rural eastern towns of Burns and John Day, cattle ranching, elk hunting, and lack of people are the first things that come to mind.
While that’s certainly true, one of Oregon’s best new courses lies in the heart of a verdant plateau between these two small towns. Silvies Valley Ranch was established in 1883 as a 140,000-acre cattle ranch. It remained that way until recently when its latest owner decided to turn a small portion of the total acreage into a top-shelf golf destination.
When you book a trip to Silvies Valley Ranch, crowds are the last thing you’ll have to worry about. That’s largely because it’s a commitment to get here. It’s also because the owners aren’t interested in inundating their facilities.
Even though there are only 18 holes at the championship course, there’s really 36… I was wondering how that could be too. It’s because the course is designed in such a manner that it can play forward and backward. The directions are switched on a daily basis. Even though this might seem a little hokey, it’s anything but. Regardless of what direction the course plays, you’re going in for a stern, but fair test.
In addition, the Chief Egan course is a fun nine-hole par three course that’s perfect for beginners and warm up rounds.
Lastly, McVeigh’s is a seven-hole track that offers plenty of risk and reward. It’s the perfect venue to settle those matches that are tied after 18.
The accommodations at Silvies Valley Ranch are world class and the staff doesn’t overlook any detail of your experience.
While there’s so much more to experience than golf at Silvies Valley Ranch, you won’t soon forget a trip to this oasis in the middle of nowhere.