Now that the temperatures are cooling off, and the kids are back at school, it’s the perfect time to get in some extra golf. Check out these local deals on fall golf.
Summer has slipped away, but that’s no reason to pack up those golf clubs just yet. There’s still time to hit the course before the snow sets in. Cooler weather, lighter crowds and lower greens fees are just a few reasons to keep your game sharp this fall.
Northwest Quarterly magazine caught up with some local golf pros to see where some of the best fall golf deals and amazing color are in the Old Northwest Territory this season.
Park Hills Golf Course, Freeport Park District
3240 W. Stephenson, Freeport, Ill.
(815) 235-3611, golfparkhills.com
Jeff Hartman, PGA Professional
Freeport’s Park Hills has some wild fall scenery on its two 18-hole courses. Old, mature trees boast bright colors throughout both the east and west courses.
“If you don’t play fall golf, you’re really missing out on a lot,” says Jeff Hartman, head PGA pro. “The conditions out here are great. The leaves are changing, and it’s really easy to get a tee time.”
Hartman says the best hole for fall color is No. 16 on the West course. It has the most trees and a lovely variety of colors. It’s a close second, he says, with No. 3 on the East course.
Fall deals: $25 for 18 holes and a cart. Twilight rate: After 3 p.m., $20 for a cart and all-you-can-play. During September, rate is weekday only; standard weekend rates apply. During October, rate is seven days a week.
Ledges Golf Course, Winnebago County Forest Preserve (WCFP)
7111 McCurry Road, Roscoe, Ill.
(815) 389-0979, wcfpd.org
Mike Durand, PGA Professional
Ledges opened in 1966, and its mixture of trees provides a colorful backdrop for fall golf. Those who don’t get out for some fall golf are missing a great opportunity, says Mike Durand, PGA pro and director of golf for WCFP courses.
“The big advantage is that temperatures are falling, humidity is lower and the golf course has lots of color,” says Durand. “With everyone going back to school and football practice, the course isn’t as crowded.”
Durand says the best holes for fall color at Ledges are No. 13 and No. 14, which have luscious hardwood trees and long-lasting color.
Fall deals: 18 holes: $15 on weekdays, $19 on weekends. 9 holes: $12 on weekdays, $10 on weekends. Students pay $10 any game.
Atwood Homestead Golf Course (WCFP)
8990 Old River Road, Rockford, Ill.
(815) 623-2411, wcfpd.org
Steve Hare, PGA Professional
Atwood is another popular choice for fall golf. Situated near the Rock River, it’s rich with trees and beautiful scenery.
“Those who don’t enjoy fall golf are missing out on good conditions,” says Durand. “The weather is good in September and October. Summer heat stresses turf grass and make conditions less than optimal. Fall is the time for turf to recover, and you get good fairways, good turf and good greens.”
Durand says the best hole for fall color at Atwood is No. 16, where a variety of colorful hardwoods and evergreens offer a breathtaking backdrop.
Fall deals: 18 holes: $15 on weekdays, $19 on weekends. 9 holes: $12 on weekdays, $10 on weekends. Students pay $10 any game.
Macktown Golf Course (WCFP)
221 Freeport Road, Rockton, Ill.
(815) 624-7410, wcfpd.org
From its perch above the Rock River, Macktown offers a variety of fall color and its setting on the southwest edge of Rockton is both tranquil and lush with trees.
Durand says the best hole for fall color is No. 9, where the left fairway is set against a thick spread of old trees that have kept watch over golfers for decades.
Fall deals: 18 holes: $15 on weekdays, $19 on weekends. 9 holes: $12 on weekdays, $10 on weekends. Students pay $10 any game. ❚