What is The Shaft like?
Set in Red Lodge, The Shaft has been on the PDGA course list since 2014. The layout runs 9 holes to a par of 27 over 1,908 ft, averaging roughly 212 feet per hole. That is short enough that a putter and a mid-range will cover most of the round.
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 forgiving overall, making it a good first course or a relaxed round. Shorter holes and open landing zones mean errant throws are usually recoverable, which is exactly what a newer player needs. Most groups finish in about 45 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to The Shaft?
For a course like this, a putter and one or two mid-ranges covers the majority of shots. Leave the high-speed drivers in the car. There is rarely room to use them, and a controlled mid-range will out-score a driver you cannot place.
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 The Shaft
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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.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 The Shaft
More disc golf near Red Lodge
The Shaft is the only PDGA-listed course in Red Lodge, but Montana has 63 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in Montana.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is The Shaft?
The Shaft has 9 holes with a total par of 27. The course measures 1,908 ft, averaging about 212 feet per hole.
Is The Shaft free to play?
Yes. The Shaft is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is The Shaft good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with open fairways across rolling ground and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play The Shaft?
About 45 minutes for a typical group on 9 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is The Shaft located?
The Shaft is in Red Lodge, Montana, at coordinates 45.20246, -109.25819. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to The Shaft?
For this layout, a putter and one or two mid-ranges covers most shots. Leave the high-speed drivers in the car. There is rarely room to use them, and a controlled mid-range will out-score a driver you cannot place.