Bristol Ridge Golf Course

$16 (cart not included), played on Wednesday, July 2006 at 10am

Played here in July 2005, as part of my quest to play golf in all 50 states (since completed in 2007).

Chose this course after consulting a number of golfer acquaintances who live in the Twin Cities area, seeking a solid public course with above-average layout. The recommendation was PERFECT! This is a wonderful golf course by every measure. It fits the natural terrain so well, it hardly looks like a bulldozer touched it. Gently rolling terrain, mature trees, some water, but nothing looks artificail or contrived. Architecture is adapted beautifully to the landscape, one of the best courses I have ever seen in that regard.

Some interesting holes, too: the view from the #2 tee box is intimidating, with a screen of trees intruding from the right, but, it turns out, they are really not in the shot, and the fairway opens up immediately past them; very interesting design.

I played alone, except for about 500,000 mosquitos, so bring your OFF.

Tee boxes are smallish, but level and were in good shape. Fairways are generous, with adequate landing areas. Bunkers were not overwhelming in number, but well placed. Greens are fairly large, and not heavily contoured. Conditions were excellent the day I played. Course is walkable, even for seniors.

Pro shop is smallish, but well stocked, and both it and the snack bar were well-staffed with competent and welcoming folks. BTW, these were the only employees I saw during the round.

One other comment, the scorecard did not have a course layout on it, so I got a little turned around and had to retrace my steps on at least one occasion. Moral of that story: play with someone who has been there before. The course is out in the country, so be sure you know where you are going before setting out.

I very highly recommend Bristol Ridge: one of the best I have played anywhere.