Municipal Golf in Bellingham

Lake Padden is the epitome of Northwest municipal golf - It is an 18‑hole, par‑72 public track measuring 6,575 yards from the tips, with a course rating of 71.9 and slope of 127 - Built in 1970 by Roy Goss and Glen Proctor, it’s a traditional, straightforward design that rewards placement off the tee and accurate approaches rather than brute length - Carved through dense evergreens, the course gives you that sheltered, woodsy vibe from the first tee on - The landscape is all forest corridors, subtle elevation changes, and clean sight lines that make each hole feel unique. It feels tucked away from the city even though it’s just a short drive southeast of downtown Bellingham - The highlight of this layout are the putting surfaces - Patrons consistently praise the greens for being well‑kept, true, and quick enough to force your attention - Fairways are generally well-kept, and tree-lined - Crooked off the tee is where most the pain of Lake padden is inflicted

For a muni, the practice setup is genuinely useful: a driving range, putting green, chipping/pitching area, and a practice bunker are all available for practice or warm-up - Power carts, pull carts, and club rentals are available - Walking is welcomed, and metal spikes aren’t allowed. The on‑site instruction (Lake Padden Golf School) and a clubhouse with food & beverages round out the package that is lake Padden golf course

This place punches above its price point. Travelers and locals alike call out the friendly staff, the fairness of the layout, and the quality of the greens, all at rates that are easy on the wallet - Pace is typically respectable for a busy municipal track, with staff presence helping groups stay in rhythm—another nudge toward a relaxed, repeatable experience

How to Score Here

*Club down off the tee: Position beats length; favor the side that opens your preferred approach yardage.

*Play below the hole: The greens reward smart leaves; uphill putts are your friend on quicker days.

*Favor stock shapes: The corridors are honest; don’t fight your natural shot if the hole allows it.

*Commit to pace on putts: True rolls mean speed control is the difference between tap‑ins and testers.

*Accept the “longer than carded” feel: Take the extra club when elevations or cool air make yardages play up.

Bottom Line
Lake Padden is the definition of quality municipal golf - A serene setting, slick greens, and no gimmicks, at a price that keeps you coming back