What is Disc Golf?
Disc golf is played much like traditional golf. Instead of a ball and clubs, players throw a flying disc from a tee area toward a metal basket. Each throw counts as one stroke, and the goal is to complete each hole in the fewest throws possible.
A typical course has 9 or 18 holes, with each hole having a designated par (usually 3). Courses are often set in parks and forests, making it a great way to enjoy the outdoors. Most courses are free to play!
Basic Grip
Hold the disc with a firm power grip: four fingers curled under the rim, thumb on top of the flight plate. Keep your wrist straight and the disc level. A consistent grip is the foundation of every good throw.
Backhand Throw
The most common throw. Stand sideways to your target, reach back with the disc, then pull straight across your chest and release when your arm is in front of you. Follow through past the release point. Keep the disc flat for a straight flight.
Forehand (Sidearm) Throw
Use a two-finger grip with your index and middle fingers against the inside rim. Bring the disc back at your side and snap your wrist forward, releasing with a flick. Great for shots that curve right (for right-handed throwers).
Basic Rules
Throw from the tee pad, then from where your disc lands. Finish by getting the disc into the basket. Count each throw as one stroke — lowest total wins. Let faster groups play through. Par is usually 3 per hole.
What You Need to Play
Putter
Your most-used disc. Slow, straight flight for short throws and putting into the basket. Start with just a putter to learn fundamentals.
Midrange
Versatile disc for medium distances (40-80m). More speed than a putter with a predictable flight path. A great second disc to add.
Driver
Designed for maximum distance. Faster and less forgiving — add a driver once you can throw a midrange cleanly. Start with an understable driver.
Scoring & Etiquette
Par: Each hole has a par value (usually 3). A birdie is one under par, a bogey is one over. Your total score is the sum of all hole scores — lowest wins.
Tee order: On the first hole, any order is fine. After that, the player with the lowest score on the previous hole tees off first (called "having honors").
Let faster groups through: If you're playing slowly and a group is waiting behind you, wave them through at the next tee. It's good etiquette and keeps the course flowing.
Take care of the course: Don't litter, don't damage trees, and be respectful of other park users. Many courses are shared public spaces.
Ready to Play?
Find a course near you, grab a disc, and head out! You can also create a tee time to find other players.