What is Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel like?
Set in Helena, Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel has been on the PDGA course list since 1996. The layout runs 18 holes to a par of 54 over 5,634 ft, averaging roughly 313 feet per hole. That is a comfortable middle distance where fairway drivers do most of the work.
The terrain is mountain/wooded — mountain terrain through timber, which puts the emphasis on elevation and commitment. Steep terrain means big elevation drops and punishing misses. Bring more discs than you think you need.
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 110 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel?
For a course like this, a putter, two mid-ranges, and a couple of fairway drivers covers the majority of shots. The variety rewards a balanced bag over a specialist one. You will use almost everything you carry.
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. It is also worth reading 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 Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel
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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.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 Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel
More disc golf in Helena
Helena has 2 PDGA-listed courses. Others worth a round:
| Course | Holes | Difficulty | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Hills Disc Golf Course | 19 | Beginner | Free |
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel?
Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel has 18 holes with a total par of 54. The course measures 5,634 ft, averaging about 313 feet per hole.
Is Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel free to play?
Yes. Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel 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 Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel?
About 110 minutes for a typical group on 18 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel located?
Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel is in Helena, Montana, at coordinates 46.63332, -112.01296. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Deerknuckle AKA Scratch Gravel?
For this layout, a putter, two mid-ranges, and a couple of fairway drivers covers most shots. The variety rewards a balanced bag over a specialist one. You will use almost everything you carry.