News Summary
Gamble Sands golf resort in Brewster, Washington, will debut its new 18-hole Scarecrow Course on August 1. Designed by Nick Schaan, the course promises a challenging experience with scenic views, including a vineyard backdrop. As the resort expands its accommodations and amenities, it aims to further establish itself as a leading golf destination in the United States, attracting enthusiasts from major cities nearby.
Gamble Sands in Brewster, Washington, Announces to Open New Scarecrow Golf Course on August 1
Gamble Sands golf resort, situated in Brewster, Washington, is set to debut a new 18-hole course, the Scarecrow Course, on August 1, 2025. This development aims to enhance the resort’s reputation as a top golf destination in the United States.
New Course Details and Design
The Scarecrow Course sits amidst rugged terrain that offers a distinct contrast to the resort’s existing course. Designed in collaboration with Nick Schaan of DMK Golf Design, the new layout emphasizes a challenging yet creative golfing experience. It features a par of 71 and stretches to approximately 6,900 yards. The course is characterized by rich green contours and traditional fine fescue turf, ensuring fast and firm playing surfaces.
One of the notable features at the start of the Scarecrow Course is the short par-4 opening hole, which incorporates risk-and-reward strategies to set an engaging tone for players. The course layout emphasizes diversity in angles and slopes, encouraging creativity and strategic shot-making. Overall, it challenges players while providing a picturesque setting.
Scenic Views and Unique Features
Throughout the Scarecrow Course, golfers can enjoy spectacular scenery, including views of a vineyard backdrop visible from the 9th hole. These natural features enhance the aesthetic experience and add to the appeal of playing across the new layout.
The Original Gamble Sands Course and Resort Enhancements
Since opening in 2014, the original Gamble Sands course has garnered recognition, being ranked No. 2 in Washington and No. 24 among all public-access courses in the U.S.. The resort comprehensively caters to golf enthusiasts, offering other facilities such as the QuickSands short course and the Cascades putting course.
The resort has expanded its accommodations with a newly renovated Inn featuring 40 double-king rooms with golf views, increasing the total number of rooms to 77 luxury accommodations. Additional amenities include upgraded food and beverage options at the clubhouse and The Barn restaurant, a fully stocked golf shop, and an improved practice facility.
Accessibility and Location
Gamble Sands is accessible via several major cities. It is approximately a three-hour-plus drive from Seattle, about 90 minutes from Wenatchee, and approximately 2.5 hours from Spokane. These options provide convenient ways for visitors to reach the resort with relative ease.
Development and Background
The land for Gamble Sands was once cultivated as apple orchards and cornfields. The resort was developed under the stewardship of the Gebbers family, transforming these lands into a premier golf retreat. Its layered course offerings, set against the backdrop of Washington’s high desert landscape, have contributed significantly to its reputation.
Gamble Sands in the Context of Elite Golf Resorts
Gamble Sands joins a list of elite golf resorts recognized nationally, often compared to renowned locations such as Bandon Dunes, Streamsong, and Pebble Beach. The addition of the Scarecrow Course further distinguishes it as a versatile destination, allowing players to experience different styles of play. The variety of courses prompts golfers to assess their preferences, adding to its overall appeal.
By opening the Scarecrow Course in August, Gamble Sands aims to solidify its standing among the top golf destinations in the country and to appeal to a broader range of visitors seeking memorable scenic and challenging golf experiences.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Gamble Sands Resort Announces New Golf Course Opening
Additional Resources
- GolfPass: Gamble Sands Resort Review
- Wikipedia: Gamble Sands
- Golf.com: Gamble Sands Next Step Evolution
- Google Search: Gamble Sands
- Golfweek: Scarecrow Golf Course Opens
- Google Scholar: Gamble Sands Scarecrow Course
- The Golf Wire: Scarecrow Course Announcement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf Courses
- PNW PGA: Gamble Sands 2025
- Google News: Scarecrow Course Gamble Sands

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