ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
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Course Report
The Links of North Dakota was built with minimal earth movement to preserve the natural terrain, creating a layout that closely resembles golf’s Scottish origins and is considered one of the purest links experiences in the U.S.
About
The Links of North Dakota, designed by Stephen Kay, provides one of America’s purest links golf experiences. Overlooking Lake Sakakawea, the course features bentgrass greens and fairways, dramatic rolling terrain, and true links characteristics like minimal shaping, windy conditions, and ground-game options. It’s highly ranked by Golf Digest and Golfweek for its setting, challenge, and affordability.
Caddie Tip
Keep your ball low to counter strong prairie winds, and use bump-and-run approaches on firm, fast-running bentgrass fairways. If you miss the fairway, native prairie rough can be penal, so aim for bigger landing areas—even if it means laying back. Watch the wind, especially on holes playing toward Lake Sakakawea.
The Main Challenge
Wind is the site's defining challenge—rounds can be dramatically different day to day. Drives require careful wind calculation, and long prairie grass penalizes errant shots. Uphill approaches and deep pot bunkers further test shotmaking. The course rewards creativity, restrained aggression, and smart navigation of natural hazards.
The Good
Golfers love the authentic links design—fast-running bentgrass, broad fairways, rugged bunkers, and the ever-present wind create an experience few U.S. courses can match. Sweeping lakeside scenery and minimalist architecture provide a memorable round that’s both challenging and fair, with high replay value.
The Not So Good
Players most often note the remote location and relatively sparse on-site amenities. Some wish for expanded clubhouse facilities, while others have expressed occasional issues with pace of play during busy summer weekends, especially when wind and rough combine for slow rounds.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The par-5 18th hole, stretching 572 yards, plays predominantly straight before a late right turn toward the green, offering one last downwind birdie chance. Bunkers threaten both the layup and approach, rewarding precise play. This memorable finishing hole provides sweeping lake vistas and an exciting close to a classic links round.
Clubhouse
Expect a simple but functional clubhouse, with a full snack bar, beverages, and essential golf services. Stay-and-play cabins and RV hookups are available, making it a convenient spot for golf travelers seeking an immersive experience.
Practice Facilities
The course offers a driving range, short game area, and practice putting green. While not as extensive as major resorts, these facilities allow solid pre-round preparation and suit the minimalist links theme.
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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