Lewis River Golf Course is an entertaining golf venue in the western Cascadian foothills of Woodland, WA. Built in a forested valley along the namesake river, it has a remote appeal but is just a quick journey from the Portland metro area. Due to it’s saturable, river valley setting, the course conditions can be challenged in times of rain. However, the grounds are pleasantly maintained with landscaped areas of shrubbery and flowers amid other beautiful native elements. Some of the holes are simply straight and bland, while others have a lot to offer. Lewis River has some cool features, like the neighboring greens of the Par 4 16th and Par 3 17th; each are contained from their relative ponds by wood-planked walls, and partitioned from one another by a steep bunker. And the river-walk of the Par 4 18th concludes an impressionable final stretch. Lewis River provides a seclusively enjoyable golf getaway within a fair proximity to the city.
Lewis River is built along primarily flat grounds, wedged between the river and the hills. The distances here are polarized, ranging from reachable Par 4’s to a 600+ yard Par 5. Lewis River offers a mix of nondescript holes and fun, character-filled holes. The latter variety require a course management approach due to doglegs, tight approach angles, and other impeding hazards. These memorable holes involve a bit more undulation in the terrain to go along with water-guarded greens and nice landscaping. Lewis River has plenty of water in the form of ponds, creeks and other hazards. Green side sand traps are also common, and there’s a large fairway bunker, uniquely housing several large trees, between the Par 4’s 13th & 14th. The greens are typically ample in landing area, yet well defended. The putting surfaces are rather contoured, but not too intimidating thanks to slower speeds in early and late season, and average speeds during the summer.
Lewis River is a decent destination regarding practice amenities for nearby residents. The practice green is notably nice, as it’s large in size, provides ample break, and is situated with a glaring view of the river. The driving range is a bit limited, as longer hitters will only have space for iron practice. However, it provides grass-surface hitting, and plenty of stations. The clubhouse is a large, beautiful structure with huge, log pillars and a detailed design. It houses a nice pro shop with typical merchandise, as well as a restaurant and an elevated deck overlooking the course and river.
