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Course Report
Salem Country Club has hosted several major amateur and senior championships, including the U.S. Senior Open.
About
Salem Country Club, founded in 1895 and featuring a Donald Ross design finalized in 1925, is one of New England's most classic private parkland layouts. The course is renowned for its undulating greens, strategic bunkering, and challenging routing through rolling wooded terrain. The club is also complemented by extensive practice facilities, a welcoming clubhouse, and a reputation for hosting major events.
Caddie Tip
Take time to study the green complexes carefully—Donald Ross’s hallmark undulations and false fronts can easily turn approach shots and putts into scorecard wreckers. Pay extra attention on the uphill finishing holes, and don't be afraid to play conservatively where trouble lurks.
The Main Challenge
Salem’s greens are the defining challenge of the course—massive, with pronounced slopes and quick speeds that demand thoughtful strategy and precise execution. Players must not only hit the greens in regulation but also land in the proper section to avoid three-putts and difficult recoveries.
The Good
Golfers consistently praise Salem Country Club for its classic Donald Ross green complexes, which demand imaginative approach shots and confident putting. The overall course routing, combined with beautiful movement in the terrain and a tranquil, wooded setting, makes for a highly enjoyable and memorable golf experience.
The Not So Good
Some golfers have mentioned that rough can be penal and the course conditioning, while generally excellent, may occasionally show wear in high-traffic areas. Additional variety in teeing options or more accessible greens fees could further broaden appeal for members and their guests.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th at Salem Country Club is a par 4, stretching 442 yards and recognized as one of the toughest finishing holes in the region. This uphill hole calls for a fade off the tee and features a challenging approach to a raised green with a severe false front and sharp back-to-front slope. Accuracy and finesse are crucial to escape with par.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse features fine and casual dining, locker rooms, a pro shop, banquet facilities, pool, fitness center, and tennis. The overall atmosphere is traditional, focused on member service, and ideal for relaxing before or after your round.
Practice Facilities
Salem offers a full driving range, short game area, and putting greens, with professional instruction available. Facilities are modern and maintained for serious practice and warm-up. The amenities cater to both competitive golfers and those seeking to refine skills in a quiet, dedicated environment.
Dress Code:
Strict
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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