Research analyzing reviews of golf courses has identified the 10 toughest courses to play in the United States of America. Galvin Green, a premium golf apparel brand, examined keywords related to difficult golf courses, such as ‘advanced’ and ‘elevation change,’ in over 800 TripAdvisor reviews written by average golfers for courses across the US. The analysis focused on courses with at least 50 reviews to determine the top 10 most challenging courses according to American golfers. Here are the results:
10. The Champions Club at Summerfield
Located in Florida, The Champions Club at Summerfield ranks 10th with an average of 0.943 marker keywords per review. The course, designed by Tom Fazio, is known for narrow fairways and strategically placed hazards that demand precision and strategy. With a total of 53 reviews and a 4-star rating, this par-72, 18-hole course offers a challenging experience for all golfers.
9. PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course
In ninth place is the PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course in California, with an average of 0.944 difficulty-related keywords per review. Rated 4.5 stars overall, this legendary course poses a tough challenge with fast greens and a design that offers one of the toughest tests in golf. Despite its challenges, the course is playable for all skill levels with its five sets of tees.
8. Tot Hill Farm Golf Club
Taking the eighth spot is Tot Hill Farm Golf Club in North Carolina, with an average of 0.956 keywords per review. Known for its dramatic elevation changes and rugged terrain, this challenging course has a rating of 4 stars. Architect Mike Strantz created a unique golf destination experience that promises both beauty and challenge for golfers.
7. Shell Landing Golf Course
Shell Landing Golf Course in Mississippi captures the seventh spot with an average of 0.963 keywords per review. This course presents water hazards and strategic bunkering that pose a significant challenge to golfers of all levels. With a 4.5-star rating and green fees starting at $62, Shell Landing offers a challenging yet affordable golfing experience.
6. Wentworth Golf Club
Ranking sixth is Wentworth Golf Club in Florida, with an average of 0.982 keywords per review. This course, characterized by tight fairways and small greens, provides a challenging layout that demands precision and careful shot planning. Designed by Steve Smyers, this championship course offers a unique golfing experience amidst natural, undulating terrain.
5. Cinnabar Hills Golf Club
In fifth place is Cinnabar Hills Golf Club in California, with an average of 0.984 difficulty-related keywords per review. Designed by John Harbottle III, this course combines natural beauty with a demanding design that appeals to skilled golfers seeking a tough round. With a rating of 4 stars, Cinnabar Hills promises a challenging and visually stunning golfing experience.
4. Stone Ridge Golf Course
Arizona’s Stone Ridge Golf Course ranks fourth with an average of 1 keyword per review. Featuring elevation changes and rugged terrain, this course challenges golfers to bring their A-game to navigate its tricky layout. Rated 4 stars with 74 reviews, Stone Ridge offers a unique desert/mountain course hybrid that balances challenge and beauty.
3. Wine Valley Golf Course
The third spot goes to Wine Valley Golf Course in Washington, with an average of 1.088 difficulty-related keywords per review. Known for its tough conditions and stunning views, this course demands precision and strategy due to its undulating greens and strategic bunkering. Designed by Dan Hixson, Wine Valley promises a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf for all players.
2. Bethpage Black
Bethpage Black in New York takes second place with an average of 1.112 keywords per review. Infamous for its difficulty and hosting major tournaments like the US Open, this municipal course offers punishing roughs and long fairways that appeal to golfers seeking a serious challenge. With 107 reviews and 119 keywords, Bethpage Black is a favorite among golfers looking to test their skills.
1. TPC Tampa Bay
At the top of the list is TPC Tampa Bay in Florida, with an average of 1.2 difficulty-related keywords per review. Known for its demanding layout and natural obstacles, this course pushes golfers to their limits with its strategic design. With 105 reviews containing 126 keywords and a 4.5-star rating, TPC Tampa Bay offers outstanding golf amidst natural wetlands and lagoons for those up for a challenging round.
