As drivers leave Bend headed south on U.S. Highway 97, they pass by a sign on the east side of the road directing them to golf at the Old Back Nine. Even though the golf course isn’t visible from the highway, it’s only a short drive down China Hat Road to a tranquil nine holes tucked among whispering Ponderosa pines.

It’s here that Central Oregonians and visitors to the area come for arguably the most relaxed, laid-back golf experience in the tri-county area. The Old Back Nine is also one of the most affordable.

“We believe that golf should be accessible to everyone, and our prices reflect our commitment to providing an affordable option in Bend,” says course manager Jim Phillips.

Golfers can enjoy a leisurely nine holes for just $26 to $38 without a cart. Only an additional $20 is required for a replay. Players can also purchase a punch card that has the potential to save them $150 over 10 rounds.

While the layout lacks the yardage of some of Central Oregon’s other championship courses, it still provides a stern test. Narrow fairways, small greens, and towering trees put a premium on accuracy and precision, not overpowering length. On most holes, golfers need nothing more than a tee shot of a couple hundred yards to set themselves up for a short-iron approach.

The course’s condition is second-to-none as well. The Old Back Nine is widely revered for its smooth, quick greens and plush fairways. The course is also void of bunkers. Both guests and regulars agree this makes for a more enjoyable experience and helps with pace of play.

Golfers feel like part of the family when they come to play the Old Back Nine. Friendly staff greet players with warm smiles and by their first name when they check in. The community of golfers is also loyal to the Old Back Nine. Every Tuesday morning throughout the season, the Men’s and Women’s Clubs gather on the first tee for friendly competition and good-natured ribbing. In addition to weekly play, both groups host more formal monthly tournaments where players compete for prizes.

New to the scene this year is Spark Golf. This network of more than 1,200 nine-hole leagues offers golfers the chance to enjoy friendly, casual competition on a weekly basis. No upfront fee is required to join the league. Golfers will be able to take advantage of Spark league events every Thursday evening throughout the 2023 season.

Even though the Old Back Nine lacks the trappings of some of Central Oregon’s more exclusive private clubs, golfers can access every amenity they need for an enjoyable round. The golf shop is fully stocked with snacks, beverages, apparel, and golf essentials. New rental clubs have been purchased for 2023, and the fleet of Yamaha golf carts are kept in top-notch condition.

Golfers and staff at the Old Back Nine know they aren’t part of the private club or high-end golf resort conversation in Central Oregon. They have no desire to be. Instead, they pride themselves on providing a facility and environment where everyone is welcome, golf doesn’t take all day, and players leave with a smile on their face, wanting to come back again.

As Phillips is all too fond of saying, “there’s always time for nine.”