ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
Shepherd’s Rock required moving over 30,000 cubic yards of earth and four attempts to perfect the waterfall behind its famed 18th green.
About
Shepherd's Rock at Nemacolin is a Pete Dye and Tim Liddy design debuting in 2017 atop the Allegheny Mountains. Featuring panoramic scenery across the Laurel Highlands, the course is known for its bold routing, dramatic terrain, and fun yet demanding play. Each nine offers distinct character, with wide-open front nine vistas and tighter, strategic holes in the wooded back nine.
Caddie Tip
Greens at Shepherd’s Rock are notoriously challenging—play for less break than you think and focus on speed control. On the back nine, keep drives on the proper side of fairways to avoid tricky sidehill lies. Club selection is crucial on approach shots, particularly on uphill or downhill holes.
The Main Challenge
The toughest challenge is negotiating the greens—many feature pronounced slopes and deceptive contours, requiring confident putting and careful approach placement. Elevation changes throughout the course, especially on the back nine, add complexity to club selection and shot shaping. Errant drives can leave penalizing sidehill lies or difficult recoveries.
The Good
Golfers praise the mountain scenery and dynamic routing, especially the thrilling transitions between wooded and open holes that feature sweeping views of the Laurel Highlands. The imaginative green complexes and memorable finishing stretch contribute to an exhilarating overall experience that stands out even for seasoned resort players.
The Not So Good
Some players report the course’s difficult greens can be unforgiving for newcomers, and the sloping terrain can occasionally cause pace of play delays. More attention to minor fairway conditioning and expanded cart paths would improve overall comfort and accessibility, especially during high-traffic periods.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th hole, a dramatic par 4, closes the round in an amphitheater of natural rock. Players face a demanding approach shot over water to a green backdropped by a striking stone waterfall. The hole’s unique setting and design make it an unforgettable, visually striking finish.
Clubhouse
The spacious clubhouse features locker rooms, a well-stocked pro shop, dining options with mountain views, and upscale lounge areas. Amenities accommodate both casual guests and tournament players, offering an inviting and comfortable setting post-round or between shots.
Practice Facilities
Facilities include a comprehensive driving range, short game area, and professional-level putting green at the Nemacolin Golf Academy, providing abundant opportunity for warm-up and learning. Private instruction and custom fitting services are also available to resort guests.
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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