How to Disc Golf at Delta Park Course Portland

Disc golf is more than just a recreational pastime—it’s a dynamic blend of precision, strategy, and outdoor immersion. For residents and visitors of Portland, Oregon, Delta Park offers one of the most accessible, well-maintained, and scenic disc golf experiences in the Pacific Northwest. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned player looking to refine your game on a unique urban course, mastering how to disc golf at Delta Park Course Portland opens the door to a rewarding athletic and social activity that blends fitness, nature, and community.

The Delta Park Disc Golf Course, nestled within the expansive 550-acre Delta Park complex near the Columbia River, features 18 holes designed to challenge players of all skill levels. With its mix of tight tree-lined fairways, open fields, elevation changes, and water hazards, the course demands adaptability and thoughtful shot selection. Unlike traditional golf, disc golf uses flying discs instead of balls and clubs, making it more affordable, easier to learn, and environmentally friendly. This tutorial provides a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to playing disc golf at Delta Park—from understanding the course layout and selecting equipment to mastering techniques and navigating local etiquette.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have the knowledge to confidently approach each hole, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy the full experience Delta Park has to offer. This isn’t just about throwing a disc—it’s about learning how to read terrain, manage risk, and connect with a growing community of disc golfers in one of Portland’s most cherished green spaces.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Locate and Prepare for Your Visit

Delta Park is located at 1501 N. Vancouver Avenue, Portland, OR 97227. The disc golf course is situated near the Portland International Raceway and the Oregon Zoo, making it easy to find using GPS or mapping apps like Google Maps. Look for signs directing you to the “Disc Golf Course” or “Disc Golf Course Entrance” off the main park roads. There is no entrance fee, and parking is free in designated areas near the course’s starting point.

Before you head out, check the weather forecast. Portland’s climate is famously temperate but unpredictable. Rain is common, especially from October through March, so wear moisture-wicking clothing and consider bringing a small towel or ziplock bag to keep your discs dry. Discs perform poorly when wet, and muddy fairways can make walking difficult. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen—even on cloudy days, UV exposure can be significant.

Arrive 15–20 minutes before you plan to start playing. This gives you time to familiarize yourself with the course map, locate the tee pads, and identify any temporary course changes or closures. The course is maintained by the Portland Parks & Recreation Department and the local disc golf community, so occasional maintenance or event closures may occur.

2. Understand the Course Layout

The Delta Park Disc Golf Course consists of 18 holes, each with a designated tee pad, target basket, and fairway. The course is rated as moderate to challenging due to its varied terrain, which includes dense tree cover, narrow corridors, elevation drops, and a few water hazards near the river’s edge. Hole lengths range from approximately 200 to 450 feet, making it ideal for intermediate players but still accessible to beginners with patience and practice.

Each hole has a clearly marked sign at the tee pad with the hole number, par, distance, and a brief description of the layout. The course uses standard PDGA (Professional Disc Golf Association) signage, meaning the target basket is a metal chain-and-hanger system designed to catch and hold discs. Always verify the hole number before throwing—some holes are close together, and misreading a sign can lead to confusion or safety hazards.

It’s recommended to walk the course in order from Hole 1 to Hole 18. The layout is designed as a loop, so backtracking is unnecessary. Maps are available on the Portland Parks & Recreation website and through mobile apps like UDisc. Download the UDisc app before you arrive—it provides GPS tracking, course maps, user reviews, and real-time hole conditions.

3. Gather and Select Your Equipment

While you can rent discs at some local shops, Delta Park does not offer rentals on-site. You’ll need at least three discs to complete the course effectively: a driver, a mid-range, and a putter. Beginners should start with slower, more stable discs that are forgiving of imperfect throws.

• Driver: Used for long-distance throws off the tee. Recommended for beginners: Innova Leopard, Discraft Buzzz SS, or Latitude 64 River. These discs have a gentle fade and won’t turn over too easily.
• Mid-range: Ideal for controlled approach shots. Recommended: Innova Aviar, Discraft Buzzz, or Gateway Wizard. These are the workhorses of disc golf—perfect for navigating tight fairways.
• Putter: Used for short, accurate throws near the basket. Recommended: Innova Aviar, Discraft Stratus, or Gateway Wizard. A good putter is critical—many rounds are won or lost on the green.

Choose discs with a weight between 160–170 grams. Heavier discs (175g+) are more stable in wind but harder for beginners to control. Lighter discs (150–160g) are easier to throw but may be affected more by wind. Avoid using high-speed drivers as your first disc—they require advanced form and can lead to frustration.

Bring a disc bag or backpack to carry your discs, towels, water, and scorecard. A mini marker disc (a small plastic disc used to mark your lie) is required by PDGA rules and should be placed directly behind your thrown disc before each throw.

4. Learn the Basic Rules of Play

Disc golf follows rules similar to traditional golf but with key differences. The objective is to complete each hole in the fewest throws possible. Par is assigned to each hole based on distance and difficulty—typically par 3, but some holes are par 2 or par 4.

Here’s how to play each hole:

1. Start at the designated tee pad. Stand behind the front edge of the pad with both feet completely behind the line.
2. Throw your first disc toward the basket. This is your “drive.”
3. Walk to where your disc landed. Place your mini marker disc directly behind the disc to mark your “lie.”
4. From behind the marker, throw your next disc. You must remain behind the marker until the disc is released.
5. Repeat until your disc is caught in the chains of the basket. Count each throw.
6. Move to the next tee pad and repeat.

Important rules to remember:

• You may not throw until the player ahead of you has cleared the putting area.
• Never walk in front of someone who is about to throw.
• If your disc lands out of bounds (OB), you receive a one-stroke penalty and must throw from the previous lie or a designated drop zone.
• Water hazards are marked with yellow lines or signs. Discs landing in water are OB and require a penalty stroke.

Keep your score on a paper scorecard or in the UDisc app. The player with the lowest total score after 18 holes wins.

5. Master the Basic Throwing Techniques

Disc golf throws rely on technique, not brute strength. There are three fundamental throws every player should learn: the backhand, forehand (sidearm), and overhand (tomahawk or hammer).

Backhand Throw (Most Common)

The backhand is the most widely used throw in disc golf. To execute:

• Stand sideways to the target with your non-dominant foot forward.
• Hold the disc with your thumb on top and fingers curled under the rim.
• Bring the disc back behind your hip, keeping your elbow bent.
• Rotate your hips and shoulders forward as you snap your wrist at release.
• Follow through with your arm pointing toward the target.

Focus on smooth motion—not speed. A clean release with proper spin is more important than power. Practice this motion without a disc first to build muscle memory.

Forehand (Sidearm) Throw

The forehand is excellent for navigating tight spaces or throwing under trees. To execute:

• Stand facing the target with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Hold the disc with your thumb on top and index finger along the rim.
• Bring the disc forward across your body, keeping your wrist loose.
• Snap your wrist outward at release, like flicking water off your fingers.
• Follow through with your arm extended toward the target.

Forehands are often less accurate for beginners but are essential for shaping shots. Practice short throws first to build control.

Overhand Throw (Tomahawk or Hammer)

Used for high-arcing shots over obstacles or into tight baskets. To execute:

• Hold the disc vertically, like holding a hammer.
• Bring it back over your head, elbow bent.
• Throw downward in a chopping motion, releasing with a flick of the wrist.
• Let the disc rotate end-over-end as it flies.

Overhand throws are situational but powerful. Use them sparingly until you’ve mastered the basics.

6. Play Through the Course: Hole-by-Hole Strategy

Each hole at Delta Park presents unique challenges. Here’s a strategic overview of key holes:

Hole 1 – Par 3, 280 ft

Open fairway with a slight left-to-right dogleg. Use a stable mid-range to avoid the trees on the right. A well-placed drive sets up an easy putt. Avoid over-driving—this hole rewards accuracy over distance.

Hole 4 – Par 3, 320 ft

Tight tree-lined fairway with a water hazard on the right. Use a slow driver or mid-range with a slight hyzer angle (disc tilted left for right-handed throwers). Aim for the left side of the fairway to avoid OB.

Hole 7 – Par 4, 410 ft

The longest hole on the course. Requires two well-placed throws. Drive down the right side to avoid the thick trees on the left. Use a mid-range for your second shot to navigate the narrow opening to the basket. Putt with confidence—this hole often breaks the round.

Hole 11 – Par 3, 260 ft

Short but tricky. The basket sits behind a cluster of trees with a narrow entrance. Use a putter or understable mid-range with a hyzer flip (disc turns right then fades left). Accuracy is key—don’t try to power through.

Hole 15 – Par 3, 300 ft

Overlooks the Columbia River. Wind is often a factor here. Use a stable disc and aim slightly into the wind. A slight tailwind can carry your disc too far, so underthrow slightly.

Hole 18 – Par 3, 290 ft

The finishing hole features a downhill fairway with OB on both sides. Use a reliable putter or mid-range. Focus on consistency, not power. Many players lose their round here by rushing the final putt.

7. Scorekeeping and Etiquette

Scorekeeping is simple: record the number of throws per hole. Add them up at the end. Use the UDisc app to automatically track scores and share results with friends.

Etiquette is critical in disc golf. Always:

• Wait until the group ahead is out of range before throwing.
• Keep noise to a minimum while others are throwing.
• Retrieve your disc quickly to avoid delays.
• Do not throw if someone is in your throwing lane.
• Respect the environment—pack out trash, avoid trampling vegetation, and don’t disturb wildlife.

Disc golf is a low-impact, low-cost sport, but it thrives on mutual respect. Being courteous ensures the course remains open and welcoming for everyone.

Best Practices

1. Practice Consistently, Not Intensely

Improvement in disc golf comes from repetition, not occasional power sessions. Spend 20–30 minutes three times a week practicing your putting and mid-range throws. Set up a basket in your backyard or visit a local park with a practice target. Focus on consistency—hitting the same spot repeatedly is more valuable than long-distance throws.

2. Develop a Pre-Throw Routine

Top players have a consistent routine before every throw: visualize the shot, take a breath, align your stance, grip the disc, and execute. This routine reduces anxiety and builds muscle memory. Use the same steps on every hole, regardless of difficulty.

3. Learn to Read the Wind

Portland’s wind patterns change quickly, especially near the river. On windy days:

• Use heavier, more stable discs.
• Throw with a lower trajectory to avoid gusts.
• Adjust your aim—wind can push a disc 10–20 feet off course.

Watch how the trees move and how other players’ discs react. Wind reading is a skill that improves with experience.

4. Play with More Experienced Players

Observing how seasoned players approach each hole is one of the fastest ways to improve. Ask if you can join a group—most disc golfers are happy to share tips. Don’t be afraid to ask, “Why did you choose that disc?” or “How did you decide where to aim?”

5. Record and Review Your Throws

Use your phone to record your throws from the side. Watch the footage to check your form: Did your wrist snap? Was your follow-through straight? Did your body rotate properly? Small adjustments in form can lead to big improvements.

6. Stay Physically Prepared

Disc golf involves walking 3–5 miles per round, often on uneven terrain. Strengthen your core, shoulders, and legs with light exercises. Stretch before playing—especially your hips, shoulders, and wrists. A simple 5-minute warm-up can prevent injury and improve performance.

7. Embrace the Learning Curve

Disc golf is notoriously difficult to master. Even experienced players have bad rounds. Don’t get discouraged by high scores. Focus on progress, not perfection. Celebrate small wins—a good drive, a clean putt, a smart decision on a tricky hole.

Tools and Resources

1. Mobile Apps

• UDisc: The most popular disc golf app. Provides GPS course maps, score tracking, hole photos, user reviews, and real-time weather. Download the free version—it’s essential for Delta Park.
• Disc Golf Metrix: Tracks your stats over time—drive distance, putting percentage, accuracy. Great for long-term improvement.
• Google Maps / Apple Maps: Use to locate the course, parking, and nearby amenities.

2. Online Learning Platforms

• Disc Golf Network (DGN): Offers free instructional videos on technique, course strategy, and equipment reviews.
• YouTube Channels: Search for “disc golf for beginners” or “Delta Park disc golf tips.” Recommended channels: Disc Golf with Mike, Pro Disc Golf, and Disc Golf Answers.

3. Local Disc Golf Communities

Portland has an active disc golf scene. Join the Portland Disc Golf Club on Facebook or check out events hosted by Portland Parks & Recreation. They often organize beginner clinics, tournaments, and group play days at Delta Park.

4. Equipment Retailers

Local shops in Portland that carry disc golf gear:

• Disc Golf Supply Co. – 1110 SE 122nd Ave, Portland
• Portland Disc Golf – 7211 SW Beaverton-Hillsdale Hwy, Portland
• REI Co-op – Multiple locations; carries basic discs and bags

Many stores offer beginner packs with three discs and a bag for under $50. This is a great way to start without overspending.

5. Course Maintenance and Updates

Check the Portland Parks & Recreation Delta Park page for updates on course conditions, closures, or new basket installations. The course is updated periodically to improve playability and safety.

6. Scorecards and Printables

Download free PDGA-standard scorecards from the PDGA website. Print them and bring them along if you prefer paper tracking. Many players use them to track personal stats like “putts per round” or “fairways hit.”

Real Examples

Example 1: First-Time Player Success Story

Jamal, a 28-year-old teacher from Southeast Portland, had never played disc golf before visiting Delta Park on a Saturday afternoon. He rented a beginner disc pack from a local shop and downloaded UDisc. After watching a 10-minute YouTube video on backhand form, he walked the course with his sister. He didn’t break 60 on his first round, but he made par on Hole 11—a tight 260-foot shot with trees on both sides. “I didn’t think I could do it,” he said. “But I just focused on one throw at a time.” By his fifth visit, he was consistently scoring in the low 50s. He now plays every weekend and volunteers to help maintain the course.

Example 2: Overcoming a Tough Hole

During a local tournament, 16-year-old Lila struggled on Hole 15, a 300-foot downhill shot with wind blowing across the river. She had missed the basket twice with drivers, losing two strokes to OB. On her third attempt, she switched to a stable mid-range and threw with a slight hyzer. The disc curved gently left, avoided the trees, and landed 10 feet from the basket. She two-putted for par. “I thought I needed power,” she said. “But I needed control. I learned to listen to the course, not my ego.”

Example 3: Group Play and Community

A group of five retirees from the North Portland neighborhood started meeting every Tuesday morning at Delta Park. They brought thermoses of coffee, shared discs, and kept a friendly leaderboard. Over time, they taught each other new techniques. One member, who had never thrown a disc before, now competes in local senior tournaments. “It’s not about winning,” said Margaret, 72. “It’s about being outside, moving, and laughing with friends. The disc is just the excuse.”

Example 4: Environmental Stewardship

In 2023, a group of local high school students organized a “Clean & Play” day at Delta Park. They collected over 120 pounds of trash, cleared fallen branches from fairways, and repainted faded basket signs. Their efforts were recognized by Portland Parks & Recreation, which awarded them a grant to install additional recycling bins on the course. Today, the course is cleaner and more inviting than ever.

FAQs

Do I need to pay to play disc golf at Delta Park?

No. Delta Park Disc Golf Course is free to play. There are no fees, permits, or reservations required. Parking is also free.

Is the course open year-round?

Yes. The course is open daily from dawn to dusk. However, heavy rain, snow, or maintenance may temporarily close sections. Check the Portland Parks & Recreation website or UDisc app for alerts.

Can I bring my dog to play?

Yes, dogs are allowed in Delta Park but must be leashed at all times. Be mindful of other players and clean up after your pet. Avoid letting your dog run near tee pads or baskets.

What if I lose a disc?

Discs can get stuck in trees, water, or tall grass. Always carry extras. If you lose a disc, don’t waste time searching—move on to the next throw. You can replace discs at local shops for as little as $10.

Are there beginner lessons available?

Yes. Portland Parks & Recreation occasionally hosts free beginner clinics at Delta Park, especially in spring and fall. Check their events calendar or join the Portland Disc Golf Club Facebook group for announcements.

Can I play alone?

Absolutely. Many players prefer solo rounds for focus and relaxation. Just be mindful of others on the course and follow etiquette rules.

How long does a round take?

A typical 18-hole round takes 60–90 minutes for beginners and 45–60 minutes for experienced players. Allow extra time if you’re learning or playing with friends.

Are there restrooms or water fountains at the course?

Yes. Restrooms and water fountains are available near the main park entrance and the Portland International Raceway. Plan your stops before starting your round.

Can I host a tournament or group event at Delta Park?

Yes. Groups of 10 or more must notify Portland Parks & Recreation in advance. Contact the park office for permits and guidelines.

What’s the best time of day to play?

Early mornings (7–10 AM) are typically quiet and cool. Weekday afternoons are also good. Avoid weekends after 2 PM if you prefer fewer people. Sunset rounds are beautiful but require good lighting.

Conclusion

Disc golf at Delta Park Course Portland is more than a game—it’s a gateway to physical activity, mental focus, and community connection. Whether you’re drawn to the challenge of navigating its tree-lined fairways, the serenity of its riverside holes, or the camaraderie of fellow players, this course offers something meaningful for everyone. By following the steps outlined in this guide—from selecting the right equipment to mastering shot placement and respecting course etiquette—you’ll not only improve your game but also deepen your appreciation for the sport and the natural environment it thrives in.

Disc golf doesn’t require expensive gear, memberships, or specialized facilities. All you need is a disc, a willingness to learn, and the curiosity to explore. Delta Park provides the perfect stage for that journey. So grab a disc, lace up your shoes, and step onto the tee pad. The course is waiting.

Remember: every great player started as a beginner. Your first throw might not be perfect. Your second might be worse. But your tenth? That’s when the magic begins. Play smart. Play safe. Play often. And above all—enjoy the flight.