ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
The club moved from its original site to the current 250-acre property in 1929 to commission Donald Ross for a completely new championship layout.
About
Mountain Ridge Country Club is a historic, private Donald Ross design in West Caldwell, New Jersey, renowned for classic parkland routing, undulating greens, and a storied history dating back to 1929. The course has hosted major amateur and professional events and features a stately Clifford C. Wendehack clubhouse, all just 20 miles from New York City.
Caddie Tip
Take your time to study the subtle green contours, as Ross’s undulations can turn routine-looking putts into three-putt territory. Club selection is vital on approach shots, and fairway positioning sets up angles to demanding green complexes. Mind the wind as the course’s layout exposes you on several tee shots.
The Main Challenge
The toughest aspect of Mountain Ridge is navigating Donald Ross’s famously contoured greens under tournament conditioning. Pin placements can be diabolical due to the slopes, and tight fairways demand disciplined shot making. The home stretch, including the closing par 4s, requires nerve and skill to finish a strong round.
The Good
Golfers love the impressive Donald Ross architecture, with rolling terrain, masterful bunker placements, and superb green complexes that provide an authentic, timeless parkland test. The course also shines in tournaments with its thoughtful routing and strong finishing holes, nestled in a serene, well-manicured setting just minutes from New York City.
The Not So Good
Access is limited to members only, which sometimes leads to unavailability for prospective outside play or even reciprocal guests. Some members feel the greens can run exceptionally fast, making play challenging during certain periods. The layout may also be perceived as favoring precision players over bombers.
Signature Hole:
#
18
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Clubhouse
Mountain Ridge boasts an historic fieldstone clubhouse designed by Clifford C. Wendehack, featuring fine and casual dining, locker rooms, lounges, banquet spaces, and top-tier guest services. Additional amenities include a pool, tennis courts, and event spaces for private functions.
Practice Facilities
The club features a full-length driving range with modern amenities, short game area with target greens and bunkers, and generous putting greens. Professional instruction, clinics, and club fitting are available to members and their guests.
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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