ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
The River Course at Blackwolf Run was created by combining new holes with original ones after the resort hosted the 1998 U.S. Women's Open, solidifying its status as a top public golf destination.
About
Blackwolf Run's River Course in Kohler, Wisconsin, was masterfully designed by Pete Dye and opened in 1990. It is acclaimed for its demanding layout, striking beauty, and the way it follows the Sheboygan River over dramatic terrain. The course is renowned for precision shotmaking, undulating greens, and relentless strategic challenge, offering a world-class test in tournament condition.
Caddie Tip
Emphasize conservative targets off the tee, as forced carries and hazards are plentiful—take one more club into greens, as the swirling valley winds and punishing rough await short approaches. The tricky, undulating greens demand patience and a deft touch. Trust yardages but play below the hole whenever possible.
The Main Challenge
The River Course relentlessly tests tee-to-green strategy with forced carries, narrow landing areas, and water hazards on over half the holes. The undulating greens and deep bunkers require pinpoint accuracy and precision putting, while the concluding holes along the river demand every ounce of skill and focus.
The Good
Golfers rave about the dramatic beauty and architecturally engaging design along the Sheboygan River, especially the memorable risk-reward moments and variety on the back nine. The sense of seclusion, top-tier tournament conditioning, and a dynamic stretch of finishing holes leave a lasting impression and make the River Course a bucket-list destination.
The Not So Good
Some golfers note that the course's severe difficulty can be overwhelming for higher handicaps, and the pace of play may slow during busy times due to its penal layout. Occasional complaints highlight travel distance between holes and lack of on-course amenities relative to leading resort peers.
Signature Hole:
#
5
This hole features an elevated tee with a breathtaking view of the fairway below, where a lone tree stands watch and the Sheboygan River runs along the right side. Precision off the tee is essential to avoid the carefully positioned fairway bunkers and set up a challenging approach to an elevated green. The hole offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, strategic shot-making, and risk-reward decision-making, making it a standout and memorable test on the River Course designed by Pete Dye.
Clubhouse
Modern, well-appointed clubhouse with locker rooms, showers, bar and grill, pro shop, and dining options; patio overlooks the course. Full-service bag drop, attentive staff, and efficient check-in enhance the experience.
Practice Facilities
Excellent range and short game areas, including multiple putting greens, practice bunkers, and a two-sided driving range adjacent to the course. Warm-up areas offer river valley views. Staff are helpful with bag drop and tips.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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