Disc Golf with the Family ~ Hiking with a Purpose

Hiking is one of my family's favorite things to, but when the kids were younger it wasn't always that way. When the kids became too big to carry on my back, but were big enough for a few mile hike, the next issue, boredom became a factor. In my experience, kids can run and play for hours non-stop, but you get them going on a hike, turn the first corner and all you hear is "I'm tired". It didn't take me long to realize that the issue wasn't really exhaustion, but boredom! This can easily be avoided by adding something fun to the mix.

Disc Golf is just that ~ and as my friend Melissa likes to say it's "hiking with a purpose". It offers the opportunity to hike some amazing areas while playing a game that keeps everyone entertained. Families with children of all ages can find creative ways to introduce the sport to their families, but even kids who can hike at least a few miles on their own should be able to learn to play along.

My family has recently taken up the sport of Disc Golf. We are definitely not experts (yet), but after our first experience we became hooked and began looking into purchasing our own discs. The best part about this sport is that you don't have to travel far to enjoy it (Bailey and Conifer both have beautiful courses), you don't need to bring much, and all ages and ability levels can play. Lucky for us the Pine, Bailey and Conifer area is ranked #2 for disc golf in the country. You can find courses anywhere, which also makes this a great sport to do while on vacation.

Teaching Kids to Play

• A good way to introduce young kids is to "play catch" at short distances. Either at home or bring a disc with you on a hike and play as you go along.
• On a course you can play catch with younger players while older players play the course. When you get close enough to putt, have everyone try to get their discs in the basket.
• Keeping score while learning isn't necessary. Some kids can get frustrated, so celebrating when they get their disc in the basket is fun without the added competition.
• There are many different ways to throw the disc. One way would be to throw sidearm, or like you would throw a skipping rock into the lake. My experts tell me it is all in the flick of the wrist!

How the Game is Played (simple rules)

• The objective is to play each hole with the least amount of strokes (or throws)
• Discs are thrown from a tee box towards the basket.
• Just like in golf, the player walks to the lie, which is the spot your disc lands, then throwing the disc towards the basket. Repeating until you make it in the basket, with the fewest throws as possible.
• Occasionally you will meet a dog-leg on the course, where you have to throw your disc through two marked arrows.
• Disc must land in the basket at the end of the hole.

Disc Course Courtesy and Safety

• All players should stay behind others while they are throwing and until throw is complete.
• If a faster group approaches, step aside to allow them to play through.
• As with all hiking and other outdoor activities, keep the area cleaner than you found it.

What to Bring

• Two discs per person (a putter and a driver) is a good place to start. You can play with one, but having both a putter and a driver will help the players learn how different discs fly.
• Discs can be rented for $2 per disc at the Pro Shop located at Beaver Ranch.
• Advanced players will carry several discs of different types and weights.
• Pencil if you are keeping score. Score cards and maps can usually be found at the beginning of the course.
• Snacks or a picnic lunch.
• Water, always bring plenty of water!
• Disc golf is also a dog friendly sport. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash!

Local Courses

Beaver Ranch