8.23

Grand National Golf Course (Lake)

Course info

ACCESS
Public
EST.
1992
GRASS
Bermuda
SEASON
Year Round
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
115
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10.5
City
Opelika

Score

8.23
Design
40%
8.2
Conditions
25%
8.4
Desirability
15%
8.1
Scenery
10%
8.6
Fun
5%
8.3
Uniqueness
5%
7.5

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 131

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10.5

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
95
$
115
$
135
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Grand National’s three courses are part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, and the property has hosted NCAA D1 National Championships as well as LPGA and Korn Ferry Tour events.

About

Grand National’s Lake Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1992, sprawls along the shores of 600-acre Lake Saugahatchee. With 12 holes hugging the water, it is renowned for its scenic vistas and strong collection of par 3s. The course is regularly lauded for hosting major collegiate and professional tournaments, and features excellent facilities and challenging holes.

Caddie Tip

Water comes into play on most holes, so keep the ball in play and be mindful of risk/reward opportunities. Choose your tees wisely—this course can be punishing off the back tees. Most par 3s require a solid long-iron or hybrid, so make sure your longer clubs are dialed in.

The Main Challenge

The greatest challenge is navigating water hazards that frame or cross into a majority of holes, punishing errant approaches. The long par 3s, especially the 15th, and small, well-bunkered greens demand precise shotmaking. Picking the right tees is crucial to avoid an overly punishing round.

The Good

Golfers especially love the par 3s, with the memorable 15th hole and several others playing over water or along lakeshore edges. The exceptional setting on Lake Saugahatchee, with beautiful vistas on most holes, and the high quality of conditions across all 54 holes make it a standout on the RTJ Trail.

The Not So Good

Some golfers mention that play can be slow during peak times due to popularity. The course can also play very tough for higher handicaps, and long walks from green to tee can be tiring. Bunkers occasionally need better consistency, especially after rain.

Signature Hole:

#

15

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The 15th is an iconic par 3 featuring a 230-yard shot to an island green framed by Lake Saugahatchee. This awe-inspiring hole is revered for both its beauty and difficulty, requiring a confident swing over open water to a generous but exposed putting surface. It’s easily one of the most photographed holes on the Trail.

Clubhouse

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Amenities include a modern clubhouse with a well-stocked pro shop, full-service grill and bar, locker rooms, and banquet facilities. The neighboring Marriott offers upscale lodging for golf groups and visitors, enhancing the resort feel.

Practice Facilities

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The practice area includes a large grass driving range, putting greens, and short game facilities, all maintained to a high standard. The property also includes a highly rated short course for warm-ups and game improvement work.

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.

Alabama
U.S.A.