8.7

The Club at Black Rock

ARCHITECTS

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
2003
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
72
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
10.5
City
Coeur d'Alene

Score

8.7
Design
40%
9.0
Conditions
25%
8.5
Desirability
15%
8.8
Scenery
10%
9.2
Fun
5%
8.3
Uniqueness
5%
8.0

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 131

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 10.5

7
15

Walkability Hard

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind Medium

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
$
$
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Black Rock was named Golf Digest’s Best New Private Course in America in 2003 and has consistently appeared in the publication’s Top 100 Golf Courses since opening.

About

The Club at Black Rock is a private, world-class golf course designed by Jim Engh, set above the shimmering shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene. Opened in 2003, it quickly earned accolades for its dramatically routed holes through wooded forests, meadows, wetlands, and around striking basalt outcroppings, offering a challenging and visually stunning experience.

Caddie Tip

Keep approach shots below the hole and pay close attention to pin placement, as many greens are multi-tiered with significant undulation. Tee shots should favor the safe side to avoid dramatic drop-offs and hidden hazards. Focus on course management over brute force; local knowledge pays dividends.

The Main Challenge

Black Rock is defined by its dramatic elevation changes, forced carries over canyons and water, and lightning-fast, multi-tiered greens. Accuracy and thoughtful shot placement are essential; even skilled players can be undone by the visual intimidation and strategic bunkering that guard every green.

The Good

Golfers rave about the breathtaking views over Lake Coeur d’Alene and the dramatic variety in hole design. The back nine, in particular, features cliffside fairways and plunging elevation changes, making each round visually memorable and strategically engaging. Members describe the experience as 'addictively challenging' and uniquely inspiring.

The Not So Good

Due to its remote and private nature, occasional comments note that access can be logistically challenging for non-members, and some wish for more flexible guest play. The course’s difficulty may be intimidating for higher handicappers, and wild terrain can make walking strenuous.

Signature Hole:

#

11

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The 11th hole is a spectacular 413-yard par 4 that plays dramatically downhill with panoramic views of Lake Coeur d'Alene. Its fairway doglegs sharply to the left, and the approach must thread between a pair of cascading waterfalls to reach a two-tiered green set in a natural rock amphitheater—a signature moment of the round.

Clubhouse

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The expansive clubhouse overlooks the course and lake, offering fine and casual dining, luxury locker rooms, fully stocked pro shop, and event spaces. Members enjoy top-tier service and a range of amenities suited to the exclusive environment.

Practice Facilities

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The club features a full driving range, pitching and chipping areas, extensive putting greens, and teaching professionals on staff. Facilities are modern and well-maintained, catering to all aspects of game improvement.

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.

Idaho
U.S.A.