I played here during 7/28 to 7/31 Bandon Trip. Bandon Trail seems to be the one that is played least amount out of the 4 courses but as far as the course condition and layout is concerned, this is the... Continue »

I played here during 7/28 to 7/31 Bandon Trip. Bandon Trail seems to be the one that is played least amount out of the 4 courses but as far as the course condition and layout is concerned, this is the best one. Its not a links style course so most people avoid it but its truely a gem of a course. Best greens out of the 4 courses, best condition out of the 4 courses. Only drawback of the course is that there aren't ocean views next to any of the hole. I ended up playing this course twice vs. other courses only once due to significant difference in conditioning. When the winds are up, this one is the safest one to play since many of the holes are shielded by the trees. It is also the toughest walk (IMO) out of the 4 courses due to severe changes in elevation.

Bandon Dunes Resort Review
Bandon Oregon Golf Course Reviews

played trails on march 17th. course was in fantastic condition. however i was shocked with how bad the caddies were on this course. we were playing and keeping up with all the groups ahead, however... Continue »

played trails on march 17th. course was in fantastic condition. however i was shocked with how bad the caddies were on this course. we were playing and keeping up with all the groups ahead, however the group behind us with 4 caddies were knocking shots down on top of us. i was very surprised the caddies didn't say anything to them. i was shocked and disappointed with how they acted. bandon resort does a fantastic job and i don't want to take away from that, but however. the caddy master needs to explain course manners to the caddys.

Bandon Dunes Resort Golf Course Review
Bandon Oregon Golf Course Reviews

Out of the 4 amazing courses at Bandon Dunes Resort, most people will say that Bandon Trails is their least favorite. That's more of a testament to the greatness of the other 3 courses than a real sl... Continue »

Out of the 4 amazing courses at Bandon Dunes Resort, most people will say that Bandon Trails is their least favorite. That's more of a testament to the greatness of the other 3 courses than a real slight to "Trails". The course winds its way in and around the coastal forest. None of the holes play along the ocean, but you certainly will hear the ocean sounds on all the holes. There are a few holes that are exposed to the wind, but many holes are sheltered by the forest.

All of the characteristics of links golf are found at Trails (firm sand-based turf, deep & penal bunkers, strategic options from tee to green), so you'll use the same shots here as the other 3 true link courses at the resort. With all of the trees, you have to be more precise off the tee than the other courses. Also the routing or lines of the holes are a little more straightforward since most of the holes are carved out of the forest.

Bandon Trails is more of a "players" course where shotmaking is more of a premium from tee to green. It's a little less "user friendly" than the others. I think better players will appreciate Trails a lot more than the higher handicap player. The look of Trails and the challenge is a great contrast and change of pace compared to the other 3 layouts. It sort of rounds out the entire Bandon Dunes experience.

Overall, it's very hard to beat playing any of the courses at Bandon Dunes, but Trails appears to be the ignored step-child of the bunch. After playing it I can see why, but it's definitely worth playing, especially if you're planning on playing multiple rounds at the resort. I would recommend playing Trails after playing 1 or 2 rounds at the other courses. You'll need to hit the ball well to really enjoy Trails and you'll need to have your "sea legs" under you as well.

Bandon Dunes Resort Golf Course Review
Bandon Oregon Golf Course Reviews