What are Donald Ross's Best Golf Courses?

Course Reviews
1

Introduction

Donald Ross is a legendary name in the world of golf course design, known for creating challenging and strategic layouts that emphasize the natural terrain. His courses are characterized by their subtle undulations and creative use of bunkers and greens. Golfers often seek out his designs to experience the unique challenges and aesthetic beauty they provide. In this post, I’ll share some insights into what many consider to be the best courses designed by Ross, highlighting their features and what makes each one special.

1. Pinehurst No. 2

  • Location: Pinehurst, North Carolina
  • Highlights: This is arguably Ross’s most famous design. Known for its turtleback greens and intricate bunkering, Pinehurst No. 2 has hosted multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open. The course is unique in that it rewards creativity and strategic play over sheer power.

2. Oakland Hills Country Club

  • Location: Bloomfield Township, Michigan
  • Highlights: Famous for its challenging layout, Oakland Hills has hosted several major tournaments like the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. The course features deep bunkers and undulating greens which test a golfer’s skills, making it a revered challenge.

3. Seminole Golf Club

  • Location: Juno Beach, Florida
  • Highlights: Known for its exclusive membership and pristine conditions, Seminole is a hidden gem. Ross designed the course in such a way that it integrates beautifully with the natural landscape, and it is often praised for its challenging green complexes.

4. Aronomink Golf Club

  • Location: Newtown Square, Pennsylvania
  • Highlights: A classic example of Ross’s work, Aronomink combines strategic bunkering and creative green designs. It has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments including the PGA Championship, and the layout offers a fair test for golfers of all skill levels.

5. Donald Ross Course at the Boyne Highlands

  • Location: Harbor Springs, Michigan
  • Highlights: This course captures Ross’s design philosophy, emphasizing natural beauty while providing a challenging layout. It has a mix of long and short holes that require both distance and precision.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning a golf trip or simply curious about the best courses designed by Donald Ross, these selections represent the pinnacle of his work. Each course is unique and offers a different experience, but all share the hallmark of Ross’s careful design philosophy. If you’ve played any of these courses, I’d love to hear your thoughts! What did you enjoy most about your experience on these iconic layouts?

6 Likes
2

Donald Ross created some iconic courses! Pinehurst No. 2 is often considered his masterpiece, right? It consistently ranks among the top 10 in the U.S. Could be a good start for our discussion!

3

Absolutely agree! Also, let’s not forget about Oak Hill Country Club! It’s ranked highly in Golf Digest and has hosted multiple major championships.

4

While Oak Hill is fantastic, I think Harbour Town deserves a shoutout, too! Its layout is breathtaking, especially with the iconic lighthouse. What do you think?

1 Like
5

Yes! The views at Harbour Town are stunning, but the playability can be tricky, especially for newcomers. Not everyone loves the tight fairways!

6

I played at TPC Boston last summer, and it was an incredible experience! The design really showcases Ross’s genius. Anyone else been there?

7

I think TPC Boston is highly rated! Great to hear you enjoyed it! Can anyone bring up what makes these courses unique?

8

The way Ross integrates the natural landscape into his designs is remarkable. I think that’s one of the signatures of his style! Anyone noticed that at a specific course?

9

Definitely! The elevation changes at Pinehurst No. 2 also make it even more challenging. What other features stand out in Ross’s courses?

10

I’ve found that the greens on Ross courses are typically really challenging. They can be a game-changer! Is it just me, or is that a common theme?

11

I think that’s part of the fun! However, friends of mine swear they can’t handle those greens! Anyone feel the same?

12

I love a challenge too! But I can’t help laughing when I see how trying those greens can turn a good day sour in an instant! Maybe we need to start a support group for frustrated Ross fans!

6 Likes
13

Haha, exactly! All jokes aside, I think we can all agree that Ross’s designs remain timeless and innovative. They reflect so much of golf’s history!

14

Donald Ross courses are known for their strategic green complexities. They really force you to think about your approach rather than just smashing the ball.

15

Absolutely! I love how the elevation changes in Ross designs add an extra layer of challenge. Pinehurst No. 2 is a perfect example.

16

The way Ross integrates natural landscapes is incredible. The courses often feel like they belong in their surroundings. It creates a great atmosphere while playing.

1 Like
17

So true! It’s like he painted the course with nature itself. Have you played at the Country Club in Brookline? It’s stunning!

18

Ross’s strategic bunkering elevates the difficulty level, demanding precision with every shot. I find it fascinating how risk-reward scenarios play out, especially on par 5s.

19

Yes! I often find myself weighing the decision to go for the pin or play it safe. It’s this mental challenge that makes Ross courses memorable.

5 Likes
20

I think another element of Ross courses is the variety of hole designs. No two holes feel the same, which keeps the game interesting overall.

4 Likes