The discus throw was introduced at the Ancient Olympic Games in 708 B.C., and the modern game of golf dates back to the 15th century in Scotland. It was not until 1926, however, that we have any record of the two games being merged. By the late ‘60s the rules for modern disc golf had been established, and the game started to catch on in a big way.
As in traditional golf, a course usually consists of 18 holes. Unlike ball golf, most disc courses are located in public parks and are free to play, although a few courses charge a nominal fee. The sport requires inexpensive discs instead of costly clubs and balls. The disc golf “hole” is a metal basket mounted on a pole. It seems to be America's new favorite park game, and courses can be found all over Humboldt County. It's so easy to play that just about anyone of any age can enjoy it, including many specially-abled and disabled participants, yet at the same time it is very challenging to master.
Humboldt County is home to a number of disc golf courses. Arcata features three of them, Mad River Pump Station #4 on Warren Creek Road, just off West End Road, Redwood Curtain in the Community Forest, and one at Cal Poly Humboldt. There is the Manila Bay 9-hole course, located on the peninsula with vistas encompassing the bay from Arcata to Eureka. In Eureka you can find courses at the Cooper Gulch Sports Complex and College of the Redwoods. Willow Creek is home to the Ammon Ranch Course and the Steelhead Course at Creekside Park. In Miranda, enjoy playing the private Birds of Paradise course (call 707-601-9716 for info). In McKinleyville, the Beau Pre DiscGolfPark is a complete 18 hole disc golf course, playing on the front nine of the Beau Pre Golf Club (call their Pro Shop at 707-839-2342 to reserve a tee time). Southern Humboldt Community Park outside of Garberville features a 23-hole course (visit sohumpark/things-to-do/disc-golf).
MORE INFO: DiscGolfScene.com/courses
