Escalante Golf, boutique owner-operator of high-end clubs and courses, has acquired a controlling interest in Pumpkin Ridge Golf Club, a 36-hole course in North Plains, Ore. Financial details were not disclosed.
Opened in 1992 just outside of Portland, Bob Cupp designed both of the club’s 18-hole courses, Witch Hollow and Ghost Creek, with input from Portland-native and former protégé John Fought.
“Pumpkin Ridge’s strong tournament heritage, impressive architectural pedigree, beautiful setting and outstanding national reputation make it an ideal addition to our family,” Escalante Golf President David McDonald said in a news release. “We will continue delivering high levels of personalized service to Witch Hollow members, while creating an unforgettable experience for Ghost Creek guests.”
Members-only Witch Hollow has hosted many prestigious championships, including the 1996 U.S. Amateur won by Tiger Woods in a dramatic comeback over Steve Scott, as well as the 1997 and 2003 Women’s U.S. Opens. The 7,017-yard par 72 has been ranked in Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Courses,” GOLF Magazine’s “Top 100 Courses in the U.S.” and Golfweek’s “Best Modern Courses.”
Ghost Creek, a par 71, 6,871-yard daily-fee facility, features undulating fairways, immaculate greens and strategic bunkering. It is recognized as one of the top 10 courses in Oregon and ranked 56th in GOLF Magazine’s “Top 100 Courses You Can Play.”
“As we open this new chapter in Pumpkin Ridge history, our focus will be on protecting the club’s integrity and traditions,” McDonald said. “We view our role as stewards of its proud heritage and pledge to preserve the club for future generations.”
The club, located less than 30 minutes from Portland, features two 20,000 square-foot clubhouses, a 17-acre practice area, learning center, full-service restaurants and extensive banquet space.
Founded in 1991, the Fort Worth, Texas-based company Escalante Golf is a boutique owner and operator of 17 luxury golf properties across nine states. Operating partners David McDonald, Elcio Silva, Robert Silva and David Matheson direct the Escalante team.