What is River Bends like?
River Bends sits in Utica, one of 1 course in the city and 308 across Michigan. Across 9,480 ft the course fits 24 holes at par 72, which works out to around 395 feet per hole. That is long enough that you will want a driver you can actually control off the tee.
The terrain is open/rolling — open fairways across rolling ground, which puts the emphasis on distance control and wind reading. With few trees to block it, wind becomes the main hazard, and the rolling ground means discs run out unpredictably after landing.
ThrowSpot rates the course demanding overall, making it experienced players who want a real challenge. Length, tight lines, and unforgiving misses mean newer players should expect a long round. Play the shorter tees if they exist. Most groups finish in about 150 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to River Bends?
For a course like this, a full bag, including distance drivers and something overstable for wind covers the majority of shots. Open ground means wind is the real hazard. An overstable disc you trust into a headwind is worth more here than an extra ten feet of distance.
If you are not sure what matches your arm speed, the disc selector converts your throwing distance into a speed ceiling and specific mold recommendations. Because the fairways are open here, it is also worth checking the wind calculator before you play on a breezy day.
Cost and access
This course is free to play, like the majority of the 7,008 courses in the ThrowSpot directory. There is no booking system and no check-in — turn up and play. Most park courses are open dawn to dusk; hours can change seasonally, so it is worth checking locally before a very early or late round.
Amenities at River Bends
Amenity information comes from PDGA course records and may not reflect recent changes. If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Other disc golf courses near River Bends
More disc golf near Utica
River Bends is the only PDGA-listed course in Utica, but Michigan has 308 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in Michigan.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is River Bends?
River Bends has 24 holes with a total par of 72. The course measures 9,480 ft, averaging about 395 feet per hole.
Is River Bends free to play?
Yes. River Bends is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is River Bends good for beginners?
It is rated advanced difficulty, so newer players should expect a challenging round. Length, tight lines, and unforgiving misses mean newer players should expect a long round. Play the shorter tees if they exist.
How long does it take to play River Bends?
About 150 minutes for a typical group on 24 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is River Bends located?
River Bends is in Utica, Michigan, at coordinates 42.62913, -83.02830. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to River Bends?
For this layout, a full bag, including distance drivers and something overstable for wind covers most shots. Open ground means wind is the real hazard. An overstable disc you trust into a headwind is worth more here than an extra ten feet of distance.