Art Kelley Disc Golf Park – 5 Epic Reasons This Course Is a Must-Play Destination
If you’re a disc golf enthusiast looking for your next challenge, Art Kelley Disc Golf Park in Soda Springs, Idaho, is a destination that should be on your must-play list. This scenic and challenging course offers a variety of holes, unique terrain, and unforgettable experiences for both competitive and casual players. Below are five epic reasons why Art Kelley Disc Golf Park stands out as one of the top disc golf courses in the region.
1. Scenic Beauty and Natural Elevation
The Art Kelley Disc Golf Park is nestled in the breathtaking hills of Soda Springs. Each hole offers spectacular mountain views, lush vegetation,
and natural elevation changes that make every throw exciting. Whether you’re playing uphill, downhill, or through narrow forest paths, the elevation adds a rewarding layer of strategy to your game. It’s not just a round of disc golf — it’s an adventure through nature.
2. Professional-Level Course Design
This course has been designed with both intermediate and advanced players in mind. Each hole has at least one concrete tee pad, and many include dual tee locations for varied difficulty levels. Informative signage displays the basket distance and useful tips for navigating each layout. While some holes are open and allow for full-power drives, others feature tight fairways and blind shots that require technical precision — a hallmark of professional course design.
3. Challenge and Technical Precision
Art Kelley Disc Golf Park is known for its demanding layout that tests your throwing accuracy and course management. Some holes, such as #14, require players to throw through narrow tunnels of dense vegetation, demanding focus and control. Others sit on steep slopes that require strategic disc placement to avoid rollaways. This mix of elevation, trees, and narrow gaps ensures that every throw feels meaningful and rewarding.
4. Community and Maintenance Excellence
The Soda Springs disc golf community has done an incredible job maintaining the park. Despite the thick vegetation and frequent use, the course remains clean, organized, and clearly marked. During tournaments, locals often set up tables where players can return lost discs — a testament to the strong community spirit that surrounds Art Kelley Disc Golf. The park’s upkeep and friendly atmosphere make it a joy to visit repeatedly.
5. A True Adventure Course
This course isn’t for the faint of heart. Some holes demand a bit of hiking through wooded areas and steep trails, making it both a physical and mental challenge. Whether you’re maneuvering through a tight fairway or launching your disc down a mountainside, every shot offers something memorable. Bring bright-colored discs or ones you can afford to lose — the trees here are excellent at catching discs.
If you enjoy adventure, challenge, and scenic beauty, Art Kelley Disc Golf Park will exceed your expectations.
Bonus Tip: Recommended Gear
For best results, use bright-colored discs for visibility in the dense foliage. Drivers with strong fade and midrange discs with glide are highly recommended. Beginners should be cautious — this course favors experienced players who can control their throws.
Plan Your Visit
When visiting Soda Springs, you can explore more than just the Art Kelley Disc Golf Park. Take time to check out the famous Soda Springs Geyser and the natural carbonated springs nearby. Combine sightseeing with a few rounds of disc golf for a truly memorable day.
