ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
Cherry Hills is the only course in the U.S., other than Augusta National, where both Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus have won a major championship.
About
Cherry Hills Country Club, a classic William Flynn design established in 1922, is one of America's most historic private courses. Having hosted multiple U.S. Opens and national tournaments, it features tree-lined fairways, strategic bunkering, and fast bentgrass greens. The course underwent a significant Tom Doak-led renovation in 2009, restoring many original design elements while updating its championship challenge.
Caddie Tip
Play for placement, not just distance, as Cherry Hills’ altitude adds yards to every shot. Focus on staying below the hole on approach shots—these greens are fast and subtly contoured, so putting uphill is far easier than putting from above the cup. Err short rather than long on most approaches.
The Main Challenge
The greatest challenge at Cherry Hills lies in its fast, sloping greens and penal bunkering. Approach shots must be well-controlled to avoid difficult up-and-downs, and the altitude means judging distances is critical. The finishing stretch, especially 16–18, demands precision and courage under pressure.
The Good
Golfers love the historic aura, seamless classic design, fast greens, and championship pedigree. The course offers outstanding strategic variety, with memorable risk-reward decisions, especially on the finishing holes. The scenery, club heritage, and tournament history add depth to every round.
The Not So Good
Due to the course’s exclusivity and intense demand for member access, non-members rarely get to play, and some members report slow play during peak hours. Occasional thin turf in shaded roughs and limited tee times during tournament preparations can also be a minor drawback.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The par-5 18th hole, named after President Eisenhower, is famed for its risk-reward finish with a large lake guarding the left side. The tee shot sets up a dramatic decision: play safe or attempt to reach the green in two over water. The bold green complex and historic finishes make it one of golf’s iconic closers.
Clubhouse
The stately clubhouse features fine and casual dining, luxurious locker rooms, event spaces, a golf shop, and panoramic views. Members also enjoy tennis courts, swimming facilities, and attentive service throughout the club, reinforcing its reputation as one of the country’s elite private clubs.
Practice Facilities
Cherry Hills offers an extensive practice area with a large driving range, multiple short game greens, and dedicated practice bunkers. The facilities are maintained to championship standards, allowing members to hone every aspect of their game in a professional-grade environment.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
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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