Windsong Farm North Course – An Overview

Discovering the Gem of the Twin Cities

If you’re in the Twin Cities and looking for a fantastic golf experience, you seriously owe it to yourself to check out Windsong Farm. This private club has earned its stripes as one of the best in the area, and with the recent addition of the John Fought-designed North Course, it’s become even more of a must-play. The North Course isn’t just your average 18 holes; it’s a treasure trove of unique challenges that’ll keep you engaged from start to finish.

The beauty of the North Course lies in its variety. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find opportunities for fun shots at nearly every turn, making it an ideal spot for your next golf outing.

Getting Cozy with the Practice Facilities

Let’s chat about practice facilities, shall we? Windsong Farm boasts some of the best around. The driving range is top-notch, with premium golf balls just waiting for you to hit them. There’s a short game area and plenty of putting greens, so members and guests can hone their skills effectively. One fellow golfer I met on my visit even hinted that he believed it to be the best practice facility in the area. That’s saying something!

This means that before you tackle the course, you can warm up and practice those swing mechanics or get in some chipping and putting. A solid practice session can set you up for a successful round.

Exceptional Service & Amenities

Great practice facilities are one thing, but the service level takes things up a notch. The staff at Windsong Farm strikes that perfect balance between being attentive and giving you space to enjoy your round. Besides the stunning course, they’ve revamped the pro shop and reimagined their logo to create a cohesive brand experience.

What’s more? The clubhouse renovations are in full swing; they’re adding a cozy “card room” for members to kick back, link up, or even squeeze in a quick meeting. These little touches make a day at Windsong Farm even more special.

Natural Beauty & Scenic Surroundings

The location is pretty sweet too! Just 30 minutes west of Minneapolis, the North Course sits in what locals affectionately refer to as “horse country.” The landscape is gently rolling, and the lack of trees makes it refreshing and unrestrained. Marshy areas come into play here and there, adding a touch of that distinctly Minnesotan charm. Plus, a bit of history sits on the property, as it used to be a horse farm, enriching the entire experience.

These scenic views only add to the allure of the course and make for some Insta-worthy shots while you’re out there playing.

Tee Shots Made Easy

Now let’s talk about the tee shots! For the most part, they’re quite forgiving. Many fairways feel wide open and spacious, thanks to the gentle rolling terrain. Just a heads-up, though—there are still areas where wayward shots might get snagged.

You kick off your round with a couple of challenging holes—#1 and #2 are both handicap holes and present tricky Cape-style tee shots. Aim wisely on these, or risk starting your day with a lost ball!

Don’t let the scorecard fool you; at 6,483 yards and a par of 70, this course can get tricky, especially with those consistent winds you’ll find here.

Approach Shots That Challenge Your Skills

If you’re looking to sharpen your approach game, you’ll find the North Course to be a “second shot golf course.” Sure, the tee shots are fun, but the real excitement comes when you’re aiming for those greens. They range from tiny par 5s to expansive par 3s, and precision is key.

The par 3s are particularly fun, featuring unique designs like a Redan and a Biarritz. Each has its challenges depending on where the pin is placed, keeping you on your toes. This is a course where you’ll want to pull out every club in your bag; there’s a wide variety of shots you’ll need to tackle.

Greens That Roll True

When it comes to the greens, Windsong Farm doesn’t skimp. These screens are large and undulating, offering subtle challenges with clever slopes. They’re designed to be fun; most of them are single-tiered, making them more approachable while still keeping you focused.

You’ll find that they run a bit slower (10-10.5 on the stimp meter) to keep things enjoyable. It’s a nice contrast to the club’s original South Course, known for its glassy greens and demanding play. I played the North Course not long after it opened, and the greens were rolling perfectly—definitely a treat for the putting game!

Overall Design: A Harmony of Styles

Now, you might be curious about the overall vibe of the North Course. It’s not your typical links or golden-age tribute course; it blends elements from both styles gracefully. The layout maximizes the natural beauty of the landscape, creating a fun and engaging golf experience.

The one-shotters and par 5s present scoring opportunities but require solid shots to take full advantage. The variety is also noteworthy; there’s no two holes of the same par in a row until the closing stretch, making it exciting all the way through.

Highlighting My Favorite Holes

Let’s dig into a few standout holes!

4 – Par 3 – 211 Yards

When I got to the green at #4, I knew this was a special course. This long par 3 showcases a massive Biarritz green complete with a huge swale cutting through it. It was a thrilling challenge to putt from the back of that green to the front pin.

9 – Par 4 – 304 Yards

If there’s a signature hole, #9 is likely it! This driveable par 4 features an elevated tee box and has marsh land just waiting to gobble up risky shots. It’s all about assessing whether you want to go for it or play more conservatively.

13 – Par 3 – 159 Yards

Finally, #13 is a short but exciting par 3 that gets your adrenaline pumping. The green continues past the backstop, forming a double green with hole 16, making it a unique and interactive experience.

Wrapping Up: Why You Must Play Windsong Farm

So, there you have it! Windsong Farm’s North Course brings a new flair to the club, giving golfers fresh and exciting challenges. With the contrast between the South Course and North Course for members, it’s sure to keep everyone coming back for more.

If you get a chance to play this stunning course, don’t hesitate. It’s not just about the game; it’s about the entire experience—the fun, the beauty, and the camaraderie. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

For more details on Windsong Farm, check it out HERE.