Earlewood Park reviews
15
0
Old Time Tromp Over Hills
Reviewed:
Played on:Mar 22, 2022
Played the course:once
Pros:
A course that feels its age but still offers a lot.
-Amenities: Solid baskets (see Other Thoughts), concrete tees, signs with info and maps (plus the legacy signs, a nice historical touch), flags for OB, taped spokes.
-Environment: The welcoming, aged vibe that's pleasant to play in. Depending on what you've played, imagine Brahan, Sedgley Woods, Redan, Henry Horton, or even a bit of Mt. Airy. If I had to guess, I would've pegged this as an 80s course for its clean park environment and local scene. Plus, the railroad tracks near the start are a nice touch.
-Hills & Water: A creek in play frequently, and a large majority of holes utilize gentle but substantial hills.
-Shot Shaping/Gameplay: A basic setup with sparse trees and lots of hills. You'll generally be throwing up a slope on one hole and down on the next. Add in a handful of relevant trees that only restrict shaping somewhat, and you have the typical hole. A few greens have nice features (usually the creek), but there aren't any holes that really stand out until the final (18), which is an epic downhill tunnel with the creek looming behind. Like many older courses, the course is adaptable to a wide variety of throwing styles, and should be easily scrambleable if you can deal with slopes around the basket.
-"Friendly": Easy to walk, not overly punishing, hard to lose discs.
-Amenities: Solid baskets (see Other Thoughts), concrete tees, signs with info and maps (plus the legacy signs, a nice historical touch), flags for OB, taped spokes.
-Environment: The welcoming, aged vibe that's pleasant to play in. Depending on what you've played, imagine Brahan, Sedgley Woods, Redan, Henry Horton, or even a bit of Mt. Airy. If I had to guess, I would've pegged this as an 80s course for its clean park environment and local scene. Plus, the railroad tracks near the start are a nice touch.
-Hills & Water: A creek in play frequently, and a large majority of holes utilize gentle but substantial hills.
-Shot Shaping/Gameplay: A basic setup with sparse trees and lots of hills. You'll generally be throwing up a slope on one hole and down on the next. Add in a handful of relevant trees that only restrict shaping somewhat, and you have the typical hole. A few greens have nice features (usually the creek), but there aren't any holes that really stand out until the final (18), which is an epic downhill tunnel with the creek looming behind. Like many older courses, the course is adaptable to a wide variety of throwing styles, and should be easily scrambleable if you can deal with slopes around the basket.
-"Friendly": Easy to walk, not overly punishing, hard to lose discs.
Cons:
-Interest: I didn't find Earlewood very interesting. Of course, I also kept getting fed up because I bogeyed holes by consistently misjudging the hills. But barring my judgements, there definitely aren't a lot of shapes forced, and the consistent switch from uphill to downhill could induce seasickness.
-Layout: Not the easiest layout to follow. Often there are multiple baskets or tees in sight, and occasionally the transition is long and not particularly intuitive. There are also fairway overlap possibilities.
-Theater: A classic obstacle that should not be here is the theater coming into play on (15)-(16). If empty, I suppose it's not a safety hazard, but it sure stinks to have a sea of concrete in a fairway.
-Trek: With the constant up and down, Earlewood can begin to feel tiring. Especially if it's your second course of a hot day…
-All 3s: Not a single shot that you're not shooting for birdie on if you have 300' of power. By default, that restricts the level of variety.
-Layout: Not the easiest layout to follow. Often there are multiple baskets or tees in sight, and occasionally the transition is long and not particularly intuitive. There are also fairway overlap possibilities.
-Theater: A classic obstacle that should not be here is the theater coming into play on (15)-(16). If empty, I suppose it's not a safety hazard, but it sure stinks to have a sea of concrete in a fairway.
-Trek: With the constant up and down, Earlewood can begin to feel tiring. Especially if it's your second course of a hot day…
-All 3s: Not a single shot that you're not shooting for birdie on if you have 300' of power. By default, that restricts the level of variety.
Other Thoughts:
Earlewood is that cool dude in his early 60s that's clearly old but also manages to stay relevant to the kids. I think I enjoyed my playthrough less than many old courses I've been to, but on the whole the course rates solidly in the middle of my list of legacy courses. I think it's Good, but not a destination in any sense.
-Chains: These baskets look like they came out of the basement of Steady Ed's grandfather. They're also significantly smaller than current standard size. On the other hand, they catch very well. Is this a pro or con? I don't want to say. I felt like it was a con personally, but a local I met was elated over them.
~Similar Courses: Sedgley Woods (Philadelphia, PA); Mt. Airy Forest (Cincinnati, OH); Jack Mattox Rec Center (Ringgold, GA).
-Chains: These baskets look like they came out of the basement of Steady Ed's grandfather. They're also significantly smaller than current standard size. On the other hand, they catch very well. Is this a pro or con? I don't want to say. I felt like it was a con personally, but a local I met was elated over them.
~Similar Courses: Sedgley Woods (Philadelphia, PA); Mt. Airy Forest (Cincinnati, OH); Jack Mattox Rec Center (Ringgold, GA).
8
0
Easter Play 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Apr 4, 2021
Played the course:once
Pros:
-Tee signs
-Tee pads
-Goals have character
-Tee pads
-Goals have character
Cons:
-Crowded park
-Language from basketball courts was inappropriate for young kids.
-Picnickers on fairways
-Baskets are older and do not catch as well as newer models.
-Fairways are packed tightly together.
-Language from basketball courts was inappropriate for young kids.
-Picnickers on fairways
-Baskets are older and do not catch as well as newer models.
-Fairways are packed tightly together.
Other Thoughts:
Played this course for the first time on Easter. So the park was quite crowded due to holiday. That means multiple picnics on fairways and tee pad benches used as picnic tables?
It took us a bit to verify where 1 started, but we did find it. First hole greeted us with a huge freshly fallen pine tree that obstructed hole 1 view. It was OK though, probably made the hole more interesting.
Greeted by multiple level of cursing coming from the basketball courts on tee pad 2. I know this is not the disc golf courses fault, but it was very unpleasant.
The goals don't catch very well, and are a little unsightly, but I would never change them. For one thing, no one will ever steal one, and for another, they give the course a unique flair that I thought was a nice change from norm.
I will say the course is obviously loved. Various different park benches at tee pads of varying age show a lot of care is poured into it. I did like the home-made disc retrievers found laying around in various places. I have not seen that done before.
I think the overall flow used the area well, but the tightness that everything was packed in was a bit unnerving. I honestly could not wait to finish.
I rate based on form and function in comparison to other courses, but the sentimental could rate this course higher based on the love shown throughout.
Out of the 69 courses I have reviewed, this is where this course ranks along with similarly rated courses:
Rank-Course, Location
26-Griffin Park, Norman, OK
27-Boyd Pond Park, Beech Island, SC
28-Golden Grove Farm & Brew DGC, Piedmont, SC
29-Riverview Park, North Augusta, SC
30-Trails DGC, Anderson, SC
31-The Firecracker, Fountain Inn, SC
32-Earlewood DGC, Columbia, SC
33-Granbury City DGC, Granbury, TX
34-Owens Field Park, Columbia, SC
35-Hampton Park Baptist Church DGC, Greenville, SC
It took us a bit to verify where 1 started, but we did find it. First hole greeted us with a huge freshly fallen pine tree that obstructed hole 1 view. It was OK though, probably made the hole more interesting.
Greeted by multiple level of cursing coming from the basketball courts on tee pad 2. I know this is not the disc golf courses fault, but it was very unpleasant.
The goals don't catch very well, and are a little unsightly, but I would never change them. For one thing, no one will ever steal one, and for another, they give the course a unique flair that I thought was a nice change from norm.
I will say the course is obviously loved. Various different park benches at tee pads of varying age show a lot of care is poured into it. I did like the home-made disc retrievers found laying around in various places. I have not seen that done before.
I think the overall flow used the area well, but the tightness that everything was packed in was a bit unnerving. I honestly could not wait to finish.
I rate based on form and function in comparison to other courses, but the sentimental could rate this course higher based on the love shown throughout.
Out of the 69 courses I have reviewed, this is where this course ranks along with similarly rated courses:
Rank-Course, Location
26-Griffin Park, Norman, OK
27-Boyd Pond Park, Beech Island, SC
28-Golden Grove Farm & Brew DGC, Piedmont, SC
29-Riverview Park, North Augusta, SC
30-Trails DGC, Anderson, SC
31-The Firecracker, Fountain Inn, SC
32-Earlewood DGC, Columbia, SC
33-Granbury City DGC, Granbury, TX
34-Owens Field Park, Columbia, SC
35-Hampton Park Baptist Church DGC, Greenville, SC
17
0
Clear The Amphitheater! I'm Going For Double Eagle! 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Oct 7, 2020
Played the course:once
Pros:
(3.075 Rating) A pleasant city park course with some substantial elevation change.
- ELEVATION AND VARIETY - I parked my car in the wrong lot and opted to start on (17), which is the lamest hole on the course. Naturally my first thought was, "well this course is way over-rated." Then I walked over to tee (18) and paused as I stood and stared down a gauntlet 60-foot downhill wooded tunnel shot. For a park with such limited space, there are a wide array of throws to be made here. Lots of elevation movement with around a dozen holes with 20 feet or more of grade variation, going up and down. Six holes have a small creek in play and it plays on the left 3 times, plays on the right once, its cleared once and there's also one play where you need to stop short. The course unfortunately does not really have any heavily wooded holes and to some, it's likely all par 3s despite what the tee signs claim. A 310-foot par 5??? Ha.
- CHALLENGE - Ignoring the old school marked par 67 figure, this par 54/55 course feels like a tweener between Recreational and Intermediate level. The one soft par 4 I think could be hole (3) as its uphill and just shy of 400 feet, but it plays more like 480. There are going to be some tough par 3 gets though, like (7) and (18). Technical skills and power is going to be needed to routinely shoot in the forties.
- NAVIGATION AND SIGNAGE - I thought this aspect was good enough to not be frustrating. Since I started on (17), I did not see a map right away, or ever, but I might of missed it. What I thankfully observed on (17s) basket was a painted spoke, and it helped a ton getting around. As for the tee signs, they are simple, being just a number and distance. They will work on this course though as most of the course is lightly wooded and the baskets can be seen.
- NATURAL BEAUTY - There are some neat features in Earlewood Park. First off, it plays through an older established park with monster 100-year-old trees. There's a perfect sized 10-foot wide creek meandering throughout the layout and it truly effects the look and feel of a couple holes. On the flipside there are a couple minor detractors. For example, there is a ton of foot traffic erosion on the course and it impacts the beauty on a handful of holes. The surrounding built environment is constantly in view too, although much of it complements the landscape. Overall, I scored this aspect 75 percentile.
- TEE AREAS - Decent sized concrete tees and most have benches to sit behind them.
- ELEVATION AND VARIETY - I parked my car in the wrong lot and opted to start on (17), which is the lamest hole on the course. Naturally my first thought was, "well this course is way over-rated." Then I walked over to tee (18) and paused as I stood and stared down a gauntlet 60-foot downhill wooded tunnel shot. For a park with such limited space, there are a wide array of throws to be made here. Lots of elevation movement with around a dozen holes with 20 feet or more of grade variation, going up and down. Six holes have a small creek in play and it plays on the left 3 times, plays on the right once, its cleared once and there's also one play where you need to stop short. The course unfortunately does not really have any heavily wooded holes and to some, it's likely all par 3s despite what the tee signs claim. A 310-foot par 5??? Ha.
- CHALLENGE - Ignoring the old school marked par 67 figure, this par 54/55 course feels like a tweener between Recreational and Intermediate level. The one soft par 4 I think could be hole (3) as its uphill and just shy of 400 feet, but it plays more like 480. There are going to be some tough par 3 gets though, like (7) and (18). Technical skills and power is going to be needed to routinely shoot in the forties.
- NAVIGATION AND SIGNAGE - I thought this aspect was good enough to not be frustrating. Since I started on (17), I did not see a map right away, or ever, but I might of missed it. What I thankfully observed on (17s) basket was a painted spoke, and it helped a ton getting around. As for the tee signs, they are simple, being just a number and distance. They will work on this course though as most of the course is lightly wooded and the baskets can be seen.
- NATURAL BEAUTY - There are some neat features in Earlewood Park. First off, it plays through an older established park with monster 100-year-old trees. There's a perfect sized 10-foot wide creek meandering throughout the layout and it truly effects the look and feel of a couple holes. On the flipside there are a couple minor detractors. For example, there is a ton of foot traffic erosion on the course and it impacts the beauty on a handful of holes. The surrounding built environment is constantly in view too, although much of it complements the landscape. Overall, I scored this aspect 75 percentile.
- TEE AREAS - Decent sized concrete tees and most have benches to sit behind them.
Cons:
A good course that will be hard to improve upon.
- SPACING - There is a lot of course jammed into the allotted park space. Several holes parallel each other without buffer. Walking paths and park roads parallel several holes. The game is almost certainly going to be interrupted during rounds. For me personally, I too had to pause a few times during my weekday 10 am round. One shot here even requires doing a full clear of an outdoor amphitheater, hole (16). I can't tell if the hole was there first or the amphitheater. I fired two enjoyable tee shots with it being empty this day, but obviously, the hole would not be playable at times.
- CHAINS - The course page says machIs, and I think they are better than that as there is a double set of chains on these baskets. I have no idea what they are. They look hideous, so much so that I unfortunately don't remember how they caught. A park of this quality definitely should have the funds to replace these with something that's not such an eyesore.
- SPACING - There is a lot of course jammed into the allotted park space. Several holes parallel each other without buffer. Walking paths and park roads parallel several holes. The game is almost certainly going to be interrupted during rounds. For me personally, I too had to pause a few times during my weekday 10 am round. One shot here even requires doing a full clear of an outdoor amphitheater, hole (16). I can't tell if the hole was there first or the amphitheater. I fired two enjoyable tee shots with it being empty this day, but obviously, the hole would not be playable at times.
- CHAINS - The course page says machIs, and I think they are better than that as there is a double set of chains on these baskets. I have no idea what they are. They look hideous, so much so that I unfortunately don't remember how they caught. A park of this quality definitely should have the funds to replace these with something that's not such an eyesore.
Other Thoughts:
A very enjoyable all-around good city center park course. I would guess that by the proximity to downtown, the quality of the park and the erosion on the course, that this is an extremely popular course. Definitely worth a spin for Intermediates to Novice level players that are staying in town or traveling through. Advanced players and above will not be challenged, but just a couple times. Not ideal for beginners, but good sports would likely have a good time on it. Not anchor destination worthy and likely also not the top billing in Columbus, but there are a few holes here that do have a rock-star quality to them. Be sure and plan for extra round time if headed here during prime hours.
- TIME PLAY - 61 minutes for this quick solo.
- TIME PLAY - 61 minutes for this quick solo.
6
3
holmslice
Experience:
15.7 years
25 played
14 reviews
Needs some minor improvements 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:May 6, 2013
Played the course:5+ times
Pros:
• Aesthetics
• Variety of Elevation
• Variety of layouts
• Amphitheater
• Variety of Elevation
• Variety of layouts
• Amphitheater
Cons:
• Poor Signage
• Tight Layout, lots of switchbacks
• Lack of Seating
• Lack of Trash Receptacles
• No Bathrooms
• Tight Layout, lots of switchbacks
• Lack of Seating
• Lack of Trash Receptacles
• No Bathrooms
Other Thoughts:
This is a very pretty course with lots of up and down and some really serene layouts. Layout of holes is pretty tight and you end up having to cross another fairway to get to the next pad a few times. Can also be confusing for first timers, a hole layout and next tee signs would be a great addition. Course is pretty short, but makes up for it with aesthetics and tight holes and elevation changes providing a good degree of challenges. Overall a great course, a few minor improvements would turn this course from average to excellent.
15
0
fun old school course 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:May 14, 2011
Played the course:once
Pros:
-great use of elevation on just about every hole
-lots of large, mature trees throughout the course
-small creek in play on a number of holes
-makes great use of the limited space
-a couple of very cool signature tee shots
-nice concrete tees
-basic signs at each tee
-old school, dome top baskets are in good condition
-lots of large, mature trees throughout the course
-small creek in play on a number of holes
-makes great use of the limited space
-a couple of very cool signature tee shots
-nice concrete tees
-basic signs at each tee
-old school, dome top baskets are in good condition
Cons:
-shows age, very short holes
-too generous pars on the signs, definitely a par 54 course
-awkward flow and navigation, not too bad but 1st timers need a map or a local
-many very close fairways, errant throws into other fairways are probably pretty common, especially considering how busy this course probably gets
-baskets are in good condition and catch well enough but are definitely not as consistent as newer models
-thick, intimidating foliage if you are on the watch for posion ivy or sumac. it is definitely out there, especially near the creek
-too generous pars on the signs, definitely a par 54 course
-awkward flow and navigation, not too bad but 1st timers need a map or a local
-many very close fairways, errant throws into other fairways are probably pretty common, especially considering how busy this course probably gets
-baskets are in good condition and catch well enough but are definitely not as consistent as newer models
-thick, intimidating foliage if you are on the watch for posion ivy or sumac. it is definitely out there, especially near the creek
Other Thoughts:
This fun old school course holds up very well. The design makes effective use of a relatively small space and exploits the elevation changes brilliantly. Nearly every hole has at least some elevation change. This is what really makes this course so fun even though it is so short.
The park is filled with large, mature trees and some of the lines are a little tight but fair. Most of the pin positions make good use of the natural obstacles and elevation. The hillside pin positions here really make you think about your approaches and putts. Given how short the holes are, you'll be thinking about how your disc is going to land even on your drives.
Holes 2 and 18 are the standouts for me. Hole 2 is a great downhill shot with a left to right fairway and a good number of trees. The basket sits on a hillside that slopes down to the left so you have to think twice about that anhyzer shot! Hole 18 is an awesome downhill through some trees with a ceiling to a pin straight ahead. A great ace run if you can hit the line. Hole 16 is also fun, shooting across the amphitheater to a hillside basket. The amphitheater is OB so you've got to make it. Must be a bummer when there is an event there because the hole is not playable then.
The rest of the holes are fun but some are a little repetitive. There are a couple blind downhill shots that are essentially the same: down overthrow down the hill and make sure you land flat. There are also two short, straight uphills (11 and 14) that are sort of filler, especially 14 since it is wide open too. Many of the holes here would be boring if it weren't for all the elevation changes.
Overall, this course is still fun 20 years later. For the modern player it is definitely a duece-or-die course but there are enough obstacles, tight lines and elevation issues to keep you on your toes. This is the place to go if you're in town looking for a casual round as the other course in town is more rough around the edges and has some very (very!) challenging wooded holes.
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The park is filled with large, mature trees and some of the lines are a little tight but fair. Most of the pin positions make good use of the natural obstacles and elevation. The hillside pin positions here really make you think about your approaches and putts. Given how short the holes are, you'll be thinking about how your disc is going to land even on your drives.
Holes 2 and 18 are the standouts for me. Hole 2 is a great downhill shot with a left to right fairway and a good number of trees. The basket sits on a hillside that slopes down to the left so you have to think twice about that anhyzer shot! Hole 18 is an awesome downhill through some trees with a ceiling to a pin straight ahead. A great ace run if you can hit the line. Hole 16 is also fun, shooting across the amphitheater to a hillside basket. The amphitheater is OB so you've got to make it. Must be a bummer when there is an event there because the hole is not playable then.
The rest of the holes are fun but some are a little repetitive. There are a couple blind downhill shots that are essentially the same: down overthrow down the hill and make sure you land flat. There are also two short, straight uphills (11 and 14) that are sort of filler, especially 14 since it is wide open too. Many of the holes here would be boring if it weren't for all the elevation changes.
Overall, this course is still fun 20 years later. For the modern player it is definitely a duece-or-die course but there are enough obstacles, tight lines and elevation issues to keep you on your toes. This is the place to go if you're in town looking for a casual round as the other course in town is more rough around the edges and has some very (very!) challenging wooded holes.
**Like this review? Hate it? Message me and let me know why! I want to make them better!**
15
0
sillybizz
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience:
22.3 years
426 played
402 reviews
My 1st SC course! 2+ years
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:May 27, 2011
Played the course:once
Pros:
Earlewood's main attraction as a course would be the nice rolling hills throughout the course in which the designer did an excellent job of using. Also there are a number of trees that force you to shape your shots at this park in order to get a birdie. This combination along with open ground on which to walk and find discs ramps up the fun factor of this course to a very high level. Hole eighteen was my favorite hole on the course, it is a longer hole but downhill and reachable for most advanced players with a well thought out putter or mid range disc to bypass the guarding trees and possibly get an ace on. Baskets are older but seem to catch well enough and the tee pads and signs are also older but are still in decent shape.
Cons:
This course was built back in 1991 and playing along it shows its age. Holes are just way to short on this course to be anything other than a pitch and putt. Beginners will have lots of fun on this course but advanced players will learn the lines very quickly and rack up birdies fast; after two or three times these players might start wishing for a harder course. The one thing that struck a cord with me was the poor course flow and strange navigation. After hole three the next logical tee pad that you see across the tiny bridge is actually in fact hole eleven and finding hole four is taxing and the flow here is strange. Also after hole nine or ten I believe you are crossing over hole one and its fairway again to get to where you want to go.
Other Thoughts:
There is some construction near holes one through three but walking around it will get you to the first tee, wish I knew this before hand! Navigation isn't too terrible with the exception of what I previously mentioned but printing a map for me was helpful. If you are near Columbia I think stopping in here and at Owens Field Park are both worthwhile places to play.
11
0
A lot of fun 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:May 3, 2011
Played the course:once
Pros:
Located in a beautiful ole time city park, with large mature trees and a gentle running creek dividing the course in two separate loops.
Elevation is the biggest positive here. The course maximizes it. You will be either throwing up or down some type of elevation, whether that is a dramatic change, or less severe. Several baskets are located on fast greens, to add to the difficulty.
Basic tee signs, along with decent concrete tee pads, located at all holes. All baskets have a next tee indicator, aiding in course navigation. This allows navigation without a map possible.
About a third of the holes play parallel to the creek, with one having you throw over it. The Combination of the creek with the elevation challenges, makes this a good course for all skill levels.
Elevation is the biggest positive here. The course maximizes it. You will be either throwing up or down some type of elevation, whether that is a dramatic change, or less severe. Several baskets are located on fast greens, to add to the difficulty.
Basic tee signs, along with decent concrete tee pads, located at all holes. All baskets have a next tee indicator, aiding in course navigation. This allows navigation without a map possible.
About a third of the holes play parallel to the creek, with one having you throw over it. The Combination of the creek with the elevation challenges, makes this a good course for all skill levels.
Cons:
Hole 16 has you throwing over/near the amphitheater. It's one thing when it's not in use, very dangerous to unplayable if it is being used.
There are several parallel fairways, where errant shots will encroach on it's neighbor, slowing down play if crowded, and potentially getting hit by a disc, possible.
Non disc golfing walking trails increase pedestrian traffic, which will cause slow downs, if really crowded.
Going from basket 9 to tee 10 has you crossing over 1's fairway. 18's tee is too close to 17's fairway, so watch your head.
There are several parallel fairways, where errant shots will encroach on it's neighbor, slowing down play if crowded, and potentially getting hit by a disc, possible.
Non disc golfing walking trails increase pedestrian traffic, which will cause slow downs, if really crowded.
Going from basket 9 to tee 10 has you crossing over 1's fairway. 18's tee is too close to 17's fairway, so watch your head.
Other Thoughts:
Single tee, single basket course that still is relevant in today's world of longer flying discs. You won't see this style of baskets much with their doom covers. Hopefully eliminating the dreaded, landing on top of basket, shot.
There was construction going on at the rec center behind #1 tee, so make sure you go around it to get to the first tee. The rec center and playground looked to be unavailable because of the construction.
Not overly challenging for me, but it was a lot of fun and is my favorite Columbus area course. Perfect for working on your game, or hanging with your friends, it is enjoyable either way.
There was construction going on at the rec center behind #1 tee, so make sure you go around it to get to the first tee. The rec center and playground looked to be unavailable because of the construction.
Not overly challenging for me, but it was a lot of fun and is my favorite Columbus area course. Perfect for working on your game, or hanging with your friends, it is enjoyable either way.
18
0
A Solid Classic 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Mar 20, 2011
Played the course:once
Pros:
Earlewood is your classical older city park style course that is mature, seasoned, and perfectly worn. Elevation is the major challenge here playing both up and down on many holes, but it is tasteful and fun, not sadistically difficult. The course offers many other challenges and obstacles: trees are as you would expect, some thicker rough, creek hazards (site shows half the holes having water, but the creek really comes into play on just a couple, and it is small and seems like most of the time retrieving discs would not be a problem), and finally the unique structures like a pipeline and an amphitheater. Variation in hole distance is better than the it looks on paper due to the elevation changes utilized on most holes. The concrete tees, basic signs and older baskets get the job done. Course contains two loops of 9 holes. Navigation was not too bad as there are mostly short walks to the next tee, but print a map first to make it easy.
The finishing hole is one of the best around- long, downhill, narrow fairway between tall trees- it is gorgeous, challenging, and one where you will want to empty the bag. The downward elevation makes this 380' hole aceable for many, but get into trouble off the tee and you could be facing a bogey or worse. I bet many rounds have been decided on this hole with a multiple shot swing possible.
The finishing hole is one of the best around- long, downhill, narrow fairway between tall trees- it is gorgeous, challenging, and one where you will want to empty the bag. The downward elevation makes this 380' hole aceable for many, but get into trouble off the tee and you could be facing a bogey or worse. I bet many rounds have been decided on this hole with a multiple shot swing possible.
Cons:
The course is integrated into other park activities somewhat- walking trail, the amphitheater, a road, picnic tables, tennis courts, and basketball courts. (And a note on the basketball, there was an intense game going on by some hot-tempered foul-mouthed locals and I would have not been shocked to have heard gunshots at some point--- we kept our distance!)
A few design issues- 1) the front is not as strong as the back, 2) the first few holes almost play on top of each other with no distinct division/barrier between them, and 3) the walk from 9 to 10 takes across #1 fairway that is blind because of the tennis courts (be sure to peek out before crossing to avoid a disc to the head). Also, the parking lot is not really close to hole 1 & 10 as we had to wander and hunt for it over some construction and we did not find any restrooms in the park.
This course does not provide the "removed-from-the-world" feel- it is your average city park with other park users around and you can see much of the park and course from just about anywhere on the course.
A few design issues- 1) the front is not as strong as the back, 2) the first few holes almost play on top of each other with no distinct division/barrier between them, and 3) the walk from 9 to 10 takes across #1 fairway that is blind because of the tennis courts (be sure to peek out before crossing to avoid a disc to the head). Also, the parking lot is not really close to hole 1 & 10 as we had to wander and hunt for it over some construction and we did not find any restrooms in the park.
This course does not provide the "removed-from-the-world" feel- it is your average city park with other park users around and you can see much of the park and course from just about anywhere on the course.
Other Thoughts:
Earlewood is a great public course that thankfully has survived from an earlier era of disc golf. There are several run-of-the-mill holes, but there are also several good and unique holes here, too. This is a course I wouldn't mind playing over and over again. It has its challenges, but gives you a chance to work on your game without too much punishment. Overall, it is just fun to play and worth the stop it you are passing through the area.
*Note: At first glance it appears on the hole info link of this site that there are two sets of tees, but there is just one. This is just done to show both pars (the old ones shown on the tee signs and then the standard pro par of today).
*Note: At first glance it appears on the hole info link of this site that there are two sets of tees, but there is just one. This is just done to show both pars (the old ones shown on the tee signs and then the standard pro par of today).
12
0
2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Mar 13, 2011
Played the course:once
Pros:
A very nice little park course. Lots of elevation changes -- the pictures don't do this justice, as the ups and downs are quite steep. Pin placements on a lot of these slopes add to the challenge. You must learn how to park your putts so they don't roll down these hills, or you'll be looking at long return shots.
The layout is nice, no repeat back-to-back holes -- a longer, uphill hole will be followed by a shorter, downhill hole. A lefty hole followed by a righty, although there are no major doglegs.
I love the challenge that seems to slowly develop over the course. As you get to the back 9, the holes start to take a different shape and very unique lines.
I love the amphitheatre shot, a nice long run with the amphitheater in the valley between the pin and the tee. I also loved 18 -- almost 400' downhill tunnel with trouble to the left.
Excellent signage. I questioned the measurements on a couple holes, but the signs themselves are quite nice.
The layout is nice, no repeat back-to-back holes -- a longer, uphill hole will be followed by a shorter, downhill hole. A lefty hole followed by a righty, although there are no major doglegs.
I love the challenge that seems to slowly develop over the course. As you get to the back 9, the holes start to take a different shape and very unique lines.
I love the amphitheatre shot, a nice long run with the amphitheater in the valley between the pin and the tee. I also loved 18 -- almost 400' downhill tunnel with trouble to the left.
Excellent signage. I questioned the measurements on a couple holes, but the signs themselves are quite nice.
Cons:
If you're an experienced player, you should ignore the listed par and play everything par 3. No hole over 400', and no major doglegs = par 3 course(imho).
Older baskets, gray tops that are often hard to see. The chains were fine though, which is the most important piece
.
Navigation was not great -- I was in a group that knew the course but tried to see it as if I were alone. A few "next tee" signs help, but you can see a lot of baskets and tees from most places, and it could be confusing without a guide or map.
Church bells - again, not a BIG con, but when they ring, they ring for 10 minutes or more!
Traffic. Lots of people out and about wandering through the course. Some looked to be bums.
There's a basketball court all alone in the middle of the park. While it doesn't interfere much with throwing, it was very popular when we were there, lots of people and loud. Again not a big deal, but they definitely didn't know what disc golf was -- one person picked up one of our drives and might have kept the disc without us yelling that it was ours. Many more just casually walked down fairways straight at us, and I wouldn't want to start trouble with them either.
No trashcans, except at the front of the park. No restrooms either.
Older baskets, gray tops that are often hard to see. The chains were fine though, which is the most important piece
.Navigation was not great -- I was in a group that knew the course but tried to see it as if I were alone. A few "next tee" signs help, but you can see a lot of baskets and tees from most places, and it could be confusing without a guide or map.
Church bells - again, not a BIG con, but when they ring, they ring for 10 minutes or more!
Traffic. Lots of people out and about wandering through the course. Some looked to be bums.
There's a basketball court all alone in the middle of the park. While it doesn't interfere much with throwing, it was very popular when we were there, lots of people and loud. Again not a big deal, but they definitely didn't know what disc golf was -- one person picked up one of our drives and might have kept the disc without us yelling that it was ours. Many more just casually walked down fairways straight at us, and I wouldn't want to start trouble with them either.
No trashcans, except at the front of the park. No restrooms either.
Other Thoughts:
I like the course and I'm looking forward to playing the upcoming tourney, but with no hole over 400', the baskets, the location, the lack of amenities, and by comparison, I rate this as a "Good" 3.0
16
1
Classic City Course. 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:May 9, 2010
Played the course:once
Pros:
- Classic Golf Course. Earlewood is what I would consider a "Classic" style disc golf course. It's definitely an older course that was probably designed pre-beveled edge discs... however, the design holds up. All the holes are influenced by trees, but trees do not dominate. Rather, they force you to shape shots and hit gaps... with good shots being rewarded with a birdie opportunity.
- Great Golf Shots. There are just some really great golf shots here. Perfect use of natural features (foliage, elevation, ravines, creeks, thick ruff, etc...) and manmade features (OB roads, parking lots, and trails). And, it seemed as if for tournament play, there were lots of "add-on" restrictions that could be put in place to give the course an added challenge (i.e. OB trail and beyond, "island" greens, extra mandys, etc...).
- Hole 18. An extremely picturesque 380' tunnel shot, dropping steeply downhill, through a 20' wide window and under a ceiling, then flattening out for the final 250', all the while with Extremely Thick Disaster Left and OB road right. It's unfortunate that 96% of disc golf courses don't end with a bang like this one.
- Great Golf Shots. There are just some really great golf shots here. Perfect use of natural features (foliage, elevation, ravines, creeks, thick ruff, etc...) and manmade features (OB roads, parking lots, and trails). And, it seemed as if for tournament play, there were lots of "add-on" restrictions that could be put in place to give the course an added challenge (i.e. OB trail and beyond, "island" greens, extra mandys, etc...).
- Hole 18. An extremely picturesque 380' tunnel shot, dropping steeply downhill, through a 20' wide window and under a ceiling, then flattening out for the final 250', all the while with Extremely Thick Disaster Left and OB road right. It's unfortunate that 96% of disc golf courses don't end with a bang like this one.
Cons:
- Primitive Signage. I'm glad they invested in signage; however, Hole number, distance and "Rec" Par is all you get. It would have been nice if they had invested in some more informative signage that had a diagram showing the Hole layout with OB's and Mandys clearly marked. There was more than one hole where we didn't know that there was a Mandy, or that the pin was perched next to a potentially OB trail, until after we had thrown and walked 200' up the fairway.
- Traffic Issues. There was a walking path / Nature trail that bisected much of the front 9. There was also a basketball court and pavilion area that could come into play for novice throwers. We didn't have any issues (on a beautiful Sunday afternoon), but if the park was busy it could slow down play.
- Only One Pin Position. The pins seem to be cemented in the ground with no way to change their location. Not only does this not allow for course variety over time, but it also increases the amount of erosion surrounding the baskets... Lots of exposed roots.
- Traffic Issues. There was a walking path / Nature trail that bisected much of the front 9. There was also a basketball court and pavilion area that could come into play for novice throwers. We didn't have any issues (on a beautiful Sunday afternoon), but if the park was busy it could slow down play.
- Only One Pin Position. The pins seem to be cemented in the ground with no way to change their location. Not only does this not allow for course variety over time, but it also increases the amount of erosion surrounding the baskets... Lots of exposed roots.
Other Thoughts:
- Posted Par. If you've ever read the threads regarding Par on this site then you know it's a hot topic. Let me clearly state that I am not a member of the "everything's a Par 3 / Pro Par" faction. And, let me say that I am in favor of having courses with Recreational Par labels as a way to get beginners motivated... However, with that said, the posted Pars here are false. Unless you're an extreme beginner, everything's a 3.
- Congrats DiscChainBasket18. DCB18 and I have been traveling around hitting up courses like crazy since I moved to NC (30 courses together in 10 months). This was his 50th course. Awesome milestone! Thanks DGCR!
- My Score: -4
- Congrats DiscChainBasket18. DCB18 and I have been traveling around hitting up courses like crazy since I moved to NC (30 courses together in 10 months). This was his 50th course. Awesome milestone! Thanks DGCR!
- My Score: -4
13
0
Pearl- Wood 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:May 9, 2010
Played the course:once
Pros:
This place is a jewell. Beautiful park setting. The course is played through a stand of old growth trees. These majestic giants provide shade & challenge as each hole seems to utilize a path through the forest. Wooded but not thick. Space between the trees allows a great course layout. Benches on most holes. Tee signs & large cement tee pads await you on each hole. Garbage cans meant a clean course. Walking paths & picnic areas with good parking nearby. Creative use of elevation comes into play on nearly every hole although it's an easy walk. A small creek also comes into play from time to time. The baskets are the old design with a small rounded top & single-row (heavy) chains. These make a distinctive 'tone' sound when the disc hits them. It only adds to the unique vibe of the course.
Cons:
Walkways & park benches are in the way of some throws. Tee signs could be a bit more descriptive. No super-long holes for big arms.
Other Thoughts:
I had heard a tourament at this course that seems to sell out VERY quickly each year. I wondered what made the course so popular (review voting seems high as well). Now that I have played it I see why people enjoy it. It is a very cool 'old-school' course.
20
0
DiscGolfCraig
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience:
19.9 years
596 played
543 reviews
Returning to Earlewood after 12 years. 2+ years
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:Jul 14, 2008
Played the course:2-4 times
Pros:
I'm updating parts of my layout after a December '20 visit. It was my first round here in 12 years. Course still offers a fun, simpler layout that makes for a nice round.
- Good course layout. Course flows nicely throughout the rolling hills of the park.
- Holes are close together, so no long walks. This is a good course for a quick round. I squeezed in 18 in about 45 minutes and never felt rushed.
- Good use of elevation, leading to a variety of holes and basket placements.
- Plenty of chances for birdies and ace runs. On most holes, you won't get punished for bad tee shots.
- Short course means higher emphasis on accuracy than on distance. Average hole length is less than 270 feet.
- Low chance for losing discs. Only holes with any risk are #3 & 12 (creek and thick brush between holes), to the right of #9 and to the left of #18.
- Excellent course for beginners and casual players. Between a lack of general length, and holes close together, casual/beginning players can choose to play holes out of order or skip the ones that may seem a bit too daunting. A very nice feature with this layout.
- Good course layout. Course flows nicely throughout the rolling hills of the park.
- Holes are close together, so no long walks. This is a good course for a quick round. I squeezed in 18 in about 45 minutes and never felt rushed.
- Good use of elevation, leading to a variety of holes and basket placements.
- Plenty of chances for birdies and ace runs. On most holes, you won't get punished for bad tee shots.
- Short course means higher emphasis on accuracy than on distance. Average hole length is less than 270 feet.
- Low chance for losing discs. Only holes with any risk are #3 & 12 (creek and thick brush between holes), to the right of #9 and to the left of #18.
- Excellent course for beginners and casual players. Between a lack of general length, and holes close together, casual/beginning players can choose to play holes out of order or skip the ones that may seem a bit too daunting. A very nice feature with this layout.
Cons:
Holes are too close to each other at times. I threw to wrong basket once because baskets were so close.
- Risk of hitting people on other holes seems high when course is crowded. I hit a tree on #8's fairway, had my disc kick far left and I ended up right in the middle of #7's fairway. There are plenty of other chances for this to occur throughout the course.
- Blind shots to several baskets can be good and bad.
- Navigation is poor for first time players. Tee signs aren't helpful (only listing hole number, par, and length). Standing on numerous tees, you can see multiple baskets. Shoot, you can even face the wrong direction on some and think that's the correct basket.
- Outdated baskets. If you want to see what older baskets look like, you'll enjoy the nostalgia. If you were curious what it would look like if Devo designed solar domes for disc golf baskets, here you go.
- Erosion is getting to be an issue on some slopes. It would be nice seeing better controls installed to reduce/slow the impact.
- Risk of hitting people on other holes seems high when course is crowded. I hit a tree on #8's fairway, had my disc kick far left and I ended up right in the middle of #7's fairway. There are plenty of other chances for this to occur throughout the course.
- Blind shots to several baskets can be good and bad.
- Navigation is poor for first time players. Tee signs aren't helpful (only listing hole number, par, and length). Standing on numerous tees, you can see multiple baskets. Shoot, you can even face the wrong direction on some and think that's the correct basket.
- Outdated baskets. If you want to see what older baskets look like, you'll enjoy the nostalgia. If you were curious what it would look like if Devo designed solar domes for disc golf baskets, here you go.
- Erosion is getting to be an issue on some slopes. It would be nice seeing better controls installed to reduce/slow the impact.
Other Thoughts:
Earlewood is a nice, basic design. If you wanted a blueprint for a mid-range course that uses the terrain to its best, this is it.
- This course was right in the middle in terms of difficulty. I was very neutral on it. Nothing really wowed me nor bothered me. I was hoping for more holes like #18.
- It would be nice were there several more challenging holes such as #7, 12, 13, or 18. On #18, you're throwing downhill through a narrow opening in the trees. Hole plays shorter than listed, but the elevation drop increases the chance of disc fading into the woods or the hidden marshy area just beyond. This was the only hole I stood on the tee and knew a great tee shot was needed to get a par.
- The most memorable hole on the course is is #16, with #18 being a close second. Loved the scene of throwing over the amphitheater and seats. It a more memorable view that gives this course a look players will remember. It's a close second to the amphitheater hole on Pipestem (WV) #10.
- Overall, this is an enjoyable, shorter course. Tilts heavily towards fun instead of difficulty. With the recent upgrades to the park, it's also attracting more of a crowd and driving out any potential trouble. Worth playing when you're in the area.
- This course was right in the middle in terms of difficulty. I was very neutral on it. Nothing really wowed me nor bothered me. I was hoping for more holes like #18.
- It would be nice were there several more challenging holes such as #7, 12, 13, or 18. On #18, you're throwing downhill through a narrow opening in the trees. Hole plays shorter than listed, but the elevation drop increases the chance of disc fading into the woods or the hidden marshy area just beyond. This was the only hole I stood on the tee and knew a great tee shot was needed to get a par.
- The most memorable hole on the course is is #16, with #18 being a close second. Loved the scene of throwing over the amphitheater and seats. It a more memorable view that gives this course a look players will remember. It's a close second to the amphitheater hole on Pipestem (WV) #10.
- Overall, this is an enjoyable, shorter course. Tilts heavily towards fun instead of difficulty. With the recent upgrades to the park, it's also attracting more of a crowd and driving out any potential trouble. Worth playing when you're in the area.
