Central Oregon standout: The Ridge golf course at Eagle Crest Resort in Redmond

REDMOND, Ore. -- One of two full-length, 18-hole courses at Eagle Crest Resort, the Ridge Course makes the case for one of central Oregon's best bargains.

Located just north of Bend and in the shadow of such illustrious Top 100 courses such as Brasada Canyons Golf Course, Pronghorn and Tetherow Golf Club -- Eagle Crest delivers gorgeous resort golf on the Ridge, not to mention it's challenging enough to host some of the state's best amateur events, including the 2006 Oregon Open.

The course winds along a ridge affording long views of the Cascade Mountains from its high points. It has wide fairways along with a handful of elevated tees that have made the course particularly driver-friendly. There are a lot of scenic points on the Ridge, perhaps none more so than the view from the par-3 third's elevated tee box, which has a mountain backdrop and juniper forests surrounding the hole.

The Ridge Course shares a clubhouse with the 18-hole putting course, as well as par-63 Challenge Course, which is a good option for warming up or for beginners. There is also a large, grass driving range and multiple practice greens, making this resort a true golfer's mecca.