Bud Hill's Ridge course is quite distinct from the Original version, playing almost exclusively through the woods and with most holes under 250 feet or so. The focus is on tight, controlled shots with many birdie opportunities. The elevation is similarly as integral, varied, and well-used as in the Original course. This layout certainly offers a distinctive alternative to the Original that makes technical golf accessible to players with even meager max distances. Beginners can get some good exposure to tight windows and line shaping that won't beat them down too hard, and more experienced players can warm up for or cool down after the Original course. The layout is definitely engaging relative to its modest length.

Some of the holes on the Ridge course are overly quirky, making for some awkward shots. These can even lead to some really short layups off the tee for lack of an ability to run the basket. Such holes are common enough that they seem to undermine the course's technical appeal and make it feel a bit more on the gimmicky side. On the whole the course's short nature often feels a bit cramped.

Navigation can be a bit tricky as the course is not well signed and the walking paths are not always obvious.

I was told that the Ridge layout had been affected by some fallen trees. I can definitely see that being the case, and if so, the present layout being a compromise to adapt to the new tree cover. If so this could explain some of the awkwardness I encountered.

I personally found the Ridge course to be nothing exciting but this in no way tempered my enthusiasm for my visit given how awesome the Original course is. The Ridge is worth bagging while you're here, but focus your energy on the Original course.