ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Sunnehanna Country Club has hosted the Sunnehanna Amateur since 1954, where future stars like Phil Mickelson and Fred Couples competed as amateurs.
About
Sunnehanna Country Club is a private, historic course in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, designed by acclaimed architect A.W. Tillinghast in 1923. The classic parkland layout features significant elevation changes and demanding green complexes. It is renowned for hosting the prestigious Sunnehanna Amateur and is celebrated for its rich history, strategic design, and scenic setting among Western Pennsylvania’s hills.
Caddie Tip
Play for the center of the greens and be cautious with approaches—many greens are elevated and well protected by deep bunkers, with false fronts and severe slopes making short-sided recoveries difficult. On the signature sixth, take an extra club uphill, and be mindful of swirling winds that often affect club selection.
The Main Challenge
The biggest challenge at Sunnehanna is the combination of length, elevation changes, and treacherous green complexes. Approach shots require precision because many greens are sloped and protected, while frequent winds and uphill/downhill lies demand excellent club selection and control.
The Good
Golfers rave about the layout’s classic architecture, variety, and the challenge provided by its rolling terrain and superb conditioning. Many appreciate the sense of history, notably from each June’s Sunnehanna Amateur, and the chance to play holes walked by some of the game’s legends.
The Not So Good
The primary areas of concern involve the course’s difficulty for higher handicappers, with its sloping fairways, thick rough, and tricky putting surfaces making play demanding. Some wish for more modern practice facilities and expanded public access.
Signature Hole:
#
6
The sixth hole, a par 4, is renowned as Sunnehanna’s most challenging. At 435 yards, it plays sharply uphill with a dogleg right, often into the prevailing wind. Its deceptive yardage and demanding tee shot make it a standout, recognized by the USGA Golf Journal as one of America's great holes.
Clubhouse
The 1920s-era clubhouse includes formal and casual dining, locker rooms, meeting spaces, banquet facilities, and a pro shop. Guests praise the club’s heritage ambiance, scenic views, and attentive staff, but some note that locker and fitness areas could use modernization.
Practice Facilities
The club offers a full driving range, short game area, putting green, and practice bunkers. There are designated instruction areas and a robust junior program. Facilities are well-maintained though not particularly large or modern by elite private club standards.
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.
.avif)
%205.webp)
.png)
.png)
