First on the Scene

If you’re a Los Angeles disc golf junkie, you’ve heard of it, but if you’re new to the game, get initiated at the spot where it all began. Oak Grove Disc Golf Course in Pasadena’s Hahamongna Watershed Park was established in the early 1970s and is recognized as the world’s first permanent course, created by the founder of the Professional Disc Golf Association.

This popular 18-hole course holds constant competitive weekend tournaments but is also a great option for beginners because of shorter distances. As you walk, throw, and curse the Frisbee gods for nearly 2 miles, enjoy woodsy terrain dominated by ancient towering live oaks and often unobstructed views of the San Gabriel Mountains to the north. Bring a scorecard, your discs, a map from the website, and good company, and prepare yourself for the locally loved, unique “spider” hole, which is tightly surrounded by trees on all sides, making for an intimidating challenge.

To get to the Oak Grove Disc Golf Course parking lot, from I-210, exit Berkshire Ave./Oak Grove Dr. Go east on Berkshire Pl., followed by a left onto Oak Grove Dr. Just after you pass the high school on your left, take a right into the park. Take your next left downhill to a right at the stop sign to the lot. Open sunrise to sunset. No official disc rentals, although locals often sell used ones in the lot. Course map. Dog-friendly!