The Blockhouse - Sunnyside reviews
17
0
Variety and Scenic
Reviewed:
Played on:Sep 13, 2022
Played the course:once
Pros:
-On James Conrad's MVP page, he's asked favorite event "Anything at the Blockhouse Disc Golf and Country Club".
-The Sunnyside course has variety with wooded fairways, open basket placements mixed with gaps off of the tee, water, elevation with upslope and downslope, and a few roller greens. The course is scenic.
-Holes 9 and 10 offer back-to-back unique features, and iconic.
-The wooded portion of the course offers a different experience than the Darkside course. Just as narrow, a few holes more distance, and some doglegs mixed in. No hole between the two courses look alike. Sunnyside is longer with a mix of par 3's and 4's.
-Tee signs offer hole number, distance, and a colorful map. Navigation is counterclockwise with a few next tee signs to help out. A few holes have multiple tees.
-If you've played here in the past, a few of the wooded holes on the front appear to have been re-aligned. Both courses also lost about 200 trees from a 2022 winter storm, which I hardly noticed.
-From the bag on the tee mid's, fairways, and driver.
-Beginners and recreational will enjoy the experience and scenery but will find difficulty. Intermediate, and advanced will be challenged.
-There are two other 18-hole courses on the property Darkside, and a Tiki putter course. Camping is offered with other activities.
-The Sunnyside course has variety with wooded fairways, open basket placements mixed with gaps off of the tee, water, elevation with upslope and downslope, and a few roller greens. The course is scenic.
-Holes 9 and 10 offer back-to-back unique features, and iconic.
-The wooded portion of the course offers a different experience than the Darkside course. Just as narrow, a few holes more distance, and some doglegs mixed in. No hole between the two courses look alike. Sunnyside is longer with a mix of par 3's and 4's.
-Tee signs offer hole number, distance, and a colorful map. Navigation is counterclockwise with a few next tee signs to help out. A few holes have multiple tees.
-If you've played here in the past, a few of the wooded holes on the front appear to have been re-aligned. Both courses also lost about 200 trees from a 2022 winter storm, which I hardly noticed.
-From the bag on the tee mid's, fairways, and driver.
-Beginners and recreational will enjoy the experience and scenery but will find difficulty. Intermediate, and advanced will be challenged.
-There are two other 18-hole courses on the property Darkside, and a Tiki putter course. Camping is offered with other activities.
Cons:
-The wooded stretch of holes 2 thru 7 run together and not memorable. Nothing wrong with the holes there difficult. I've played other courses like Sunnyside with variety such as Lake Marshall and Willow Creek and have no problem remembering hole by hole 15-21 months later.
-#17 a poke and hope at 140 feet just doesn't fit with the rest of the course, and its flow. I like to see strong finishing holes on a unique course.
-#16 at the lowest elevation of the course, the basket sits next to a pond and after a night of rain the green areas had standing water, likely to be a consistent problem.
-#3 and 4 turf tees had overgrowth growing thru the turf, but still able to find a good spot to throw from.
-A few tee signs missing, distances seem off on a few holes, and on #8 a few extra tees or perhaps leftover turf tees, hard to tell. A next tee sign in the woods from 4 to 5 would of been useful, did a little wandering around trying to find the tee.
-Grass was high on some holes such as 8 and 16. It would be a chore to keep the grass cut for the owner, who was doing course Maintenace as I played.
-Loss disc potential will be high with water a few ponds, and a few ditches. The wooded portions some overgrowth and some very little. Larger Cedar bushes as fairway bunkers or basket guardians. All of it scenic, and I would lose a disc in that scenery.
-#17 a poke and hope at 140 feet just doesn't fit with the rest of the course, and its flow. I like to see strong finishing holes on a unique course.
-#16 at the lowest elevation of the course, the basket sits next to a pond and after a night of rain the green areas had standing water, likely to be a consistent problem.
-#3 and 4 turf tees had overgrowth growing thru the turf, but still able to find a good spot to throw from.
-A few tee signs missing, distances seem off on a few holes, and on #8 a few extra tees or perhaps leftover turf tees, hard to tell. A next tee sign in the woods from 4 to 5 would of been useful, did a little wandering around trying to find the tee.
-Grass was high on some holes such as 8 and 16. It would be a chore to keep the grass cut for the owner, who was doing course Maintenace as I played.
-Loss disc potential will be high with water a few ponds, and a few ditches. The wooded portions some overgrowth and some very little. Larger Cedar bushes as fairway bunkers or basket guardians. All of it scenic, and I would lose a disc in that scenery.
Other Thoughts:
The Blockhouse, what an outstanding morning of disc golf the variety of Sunnyside was stimulating, and the hallways of the Darkside woods kept me focused. Sunnyside was one of my favorite walks on a disc course, the elevation wasn't tiring, and the variety kept me wondering "what's" on the next hole as I picked up my disc from the basket. I like to pick a personnel signature hole on the courses I play if warranted, and the Sunnyside had been the most difficult to choose between 9 and 10. I decided based on which hole had the best unique feature in play, and which hole I will likely remember 10 years from now if I never play the course again.
My personnel con would be the lack of memorable holes 2 thru 7 which may take a few course visits to nail down, and #17 just seems out of place, both cons prevent an overall rating of 4.5.
My overall rating is anchored on a 5.0 based on the variety of the course, unique holes in 9 and 10, and a pleasant walk from first tee to 18 basket. The time to play taking a few photos was 95 minutes.
Featured Tee Box:
-The #1 tee provided a feeling of dread looking at a gap 80 feet in front of you and about 12 feet wide with cedar branches sticking out both sides of the gap. The left cedar creeping more towards the middle, the gap plays a left to right line. The pond is about 170 feet out with a 70-foot carry. The rest of the hole is to an open basket. It's a heck of a tee throw to start a round, and watched my disc clip the branch on the left and into the pond. Hole 11 tee looks like 1 but is dry.
Feature Holes:
-#10 Par 4 at 444 feet is just a gorgeous hole from the tee to basket which the cedar bushes surrounding the basket in C1 can be seen from the tee. From the tee about 15 feet providing scenery is a rock lined garden with plants nice touch. Its going to be an elevated tee shot that looks open, but its not until you reach more than halfway down fairway. About 100 feet out are two trees to hit a gap of 25 feet. About 60 feet past to the right is a barn that protrudes out into your line. Halfway down fairway is the bottom of hill with a ditch that crosses covered by a group of trees left, and another group of trees right. At this point back up hill to the basket that has a flag showing its location in the cedar bushes, and you'll pass by a flower bed left center fairway. I had watched the 2019 2-days in May that included Paul McBeth and Chris Dickerson, and when I was on the tee, I had no memory of the hole.
-#16 Par 3 272 feet is an elevated tee to a basket on the other side of a pond that covers C1. From the tee basket can be seen, includes a tree gap of 10 feet, and 40 feet in front of you. Trees cover behind the basket; fairway is open after gap. Very scenic look from tee. I would clip a branch at the gap and kept my disc dry.
Signature Hole:
-#9 Par 3 at 259 feet is an elevated tee that swings back up hill 100 feet out into the open, and a slight dogleg left. The basket is placed in the second corral further up hill, the first corral is a guardian. Fencing in front of the first coral at C2, and fencing in front of the 2nd corral, basket just 10 feet past fencing, and fencing has a narrow opening to reach basket. Fencing on both sides of both corrals. The barn you'll see from #10 tee is sitting to the right from corral and can come into play. From the tee 50 feet out is a fallen tree across fairway. At bottom of hill is a narrow creek with a foot bridge and a tree gap of 25 feet, and overhanging branches. From the tee your line has a down angle into the open fairway, and very scenic. This was the only hole I could remember from watching the 2-days in May a few years before.
Trouble Hole:
-#15 Par 3 at 347 feet is a straight uphill open air shot with a tree line to the right, a plant garden in the middle of fairway to clear at 200 feet, to reach the crest of a hill at 300 feet. The hill crest has heavy trees both sides, and a 30-foot gap. The basket sits protected downhill for 50 feet on the left and sits on a knoll for a roller green. There is heavy brush both sides of gap, and behind basket. When you clear the gap whether from the tee or approach, your disc will disappear. I spent a few minutes looking for my approach in the brush.
My personnel con would be the lack of memorable holes 2 thru 7 which may take a few course visits to nail down, and #17 just seems out of place, both cons prevent an overall rating of 4.5.
My overall rating is anchored on a 5.0 based on the variety of the course, unique holes in 9 and 10, and a pleasant walk from first tee to 18 basket. The time to play taking a few photos was 95 minutes.
Featured Tee Box:
-The #1 tee provided a feeling of dread looking at a gap 80 feet in front of you and about 12 feet wide with cedar branches sticking out both sides of the gap. The left cedar creeping more towards the middle, the gap plays a left to right line. The pond is about 170 feet out with a 70-foot carry. The rest of the hole is to an open basket. It's a heck of a tee throw to start a round, and watched my disc clip the branch on the left and into the pond. Hole 11 tee looks like 1 but is dry.
Feature Holes:
-#10 Par 4 at 444 feet is just a gorgeous hole from the tee to basket which the cedar bushes surrounding the basket in C1 can be seen from the tee. From the tee about 15 feet providing scenery is a rock lined garden with plants nice touch. Its going to be an elevated tee shot that looks open, but its not until you reach more than halfway down fairway. About 100 feet out are two trees to hit a gap of 25 feet. About 60 feet past to the right is a barn that protrudes out into your line. Halfway down fairway is the bottom of hill with a ditch that crosses covered by a group of trees left, and another group of trees right. At this point back up hill to the basket that has a flag showing its location in the cedar bushes, and you'll pass by a flower bed left center fairway. I had watched the 2019 2-days in May that included Paul McBeth and Chris Dickerson, and when I was on the tee, I had no memory of the hole.
-#16 Par 3 272 feet is an elevated tee to a basket on the other side of a pond that covers C1. From the tee basket can be seen, includes a tree gap of 10 feet, and 40 feet in front of you. Trees cover behind the basket; fairway is open after gap. Very scenic look from tee. I would clip a branch at the gap and kept my disc dry.
Signature Hole:
-#9 Par 3 at 259 feet is an elevated tee that swings back up hill 100 feet out into the open, and a slight dogleg left. The basket is placed in the second corral further up hill, the first corral is a guardian. Fencing in front of the first coral at C2, and fencing in front of the 2nd corral, basket just 10 feet past fencing, and fencing has a narrow opening to reach basket. Fencing on both sides of both corrals. The barn you'll see from #10 tee is sitting to the right from corral and can come into play. From the tee 50 feet out is a fallen tree across fairway. At bottom of hill is a narrow creek with a foot bridge and a tree gap of 25 feet, and overhanging branches. From the tee your line has a down angle into the open fairway, and very scenic. This was the only hole I could remember from watching the 2-days in May a few years before.
Trouble Hole:
-#15 Par 3 at 347 feet is a straight uphill open air shot with a tree line to the right, a plant garden in the middle of fairway to clear at 200 feet, to reach the crest of a hill at 300 feet. The hill crest has heavy trees both sides, and a 30-foot gap. The basket sits protected downhill for 50 feet on the left and sits on a knoll for a roller green. There is heavy brush both sides of gap, and behind basket. When you clear the gap whether from the tee or approach, your disc will disappear. I spent a few minutes looking for my approach in the brush.
3
1
mike3216
Experience:
8.7 years
13 played
8 reviews
A Challenge at My Level 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Sep 23, 2017
Played the course:once
Pros:
Challenging mix of open big-arm holes and tight technical wooded holes, with the emphasis on the latter. I needed every shot in my limited arsenal, and many more that I didn't have. The wooded areas are open enough to create no problems finding or getting to your disc, but they are often jail with the only option being to pitch out. And that stinking holly, which is everywhere, is picky!
A lot of thought clearly went into this layout, and every hole presents its own challenge.
A lot of thought clearly went into this layout, and every hole presents its own challenge.
Cons:
I have been playing about two years, I'm working on accuracy off the tee, and I don't have a workable forehand flick at this time. Thus, many holes on this course exceed my capabilities. If you are at my level or below, you will be playing plinko off the trees quite often.
A couple of holes with multiple potential basket locations can be confusing.
A couple of holes with multiple potential basket locations can be confusing.
Other Thoughts:
The course beat me down at my current level, but I see it as a course I will like more and more every time I play it.
9
0
It's Always Sunny Compared to the Darkside! 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:May 30, 2014
Played the course:once
Pros:
The private 18 hole Sunnyside course consists of more variety than the Darkside as it plays over a little different terrain with some more open areas, grass fairways, interesting greens, a berm, corral, and also plays through the same thick Virginia woods, rolling elevation, creeks and ponds. There are two loops of 9 holes, a couple ace runs, a couple par 4s, and more variety of distances, use of elevation changes and danger of water. The Sunnyside is more suitable for players of all skill level.
The large astroturf tees here are my favorite, nice Mach III baskets with flags, navigation and signage, tee area shelter and interesting nicknacks. Very nicely maintained mowed grass fairways and little underbrush in the woods, which is amazing given how thick the woods are.
Other amenities on site include a second professional 18 hole course, awesome Tiki course, arcade, concerts, camping, pool and bathroom.
The large astroturf tees here are my favorite, nice Mach III baskets with flags, navigation and signage, tee area shelter and interesting nicknacks. Very nicely maintained mowed grass fairways and little underbrush in the woods, which is amazing given how thick the woods are.
Other amenities on site include a second professional 18 hole course, awesome Tiki course, arcade, concerts, camping, pool and bathroom.
Cons:
Holly in the rough. Deer flies. Some of the wooded holes are unfairly tighter compared to the Darkside. Couple deuce or die holes. Hole #17, I'm not a fan of this short 133' hole of plinko.
Other Thoughts:
It's alway Sunny compared to the Darkside! The Sunnyside is more fun with it's variety of terrain and distances, but still a very technical course. This is probably most people's favorite of the courses on site and I'm in that camp. I wouldn't call Sunnyside an open course, but it's open holes are where the course really shines and provides some truly memorable signature holes...
Hole 1 - an open par 4 with the tee shot over the pond,
Hole 9 - a short open downhill par 3 with the corral surrounding the basket,
Hole 10 - a par 4 with undulating elevation with somewhat open tee shot and my favorite green scattered with sculptured shrubs,
Hole 11 - a somewhat open par 4 with sloping elevation,
Hole 15 - an open uphill par 3 with a berm/bunker protecting the basket on a shallow green,
Hole 16 - short downhill par 3 tees from the woods into the open and across the pond with the basket just across it.
The Blockhouse(formerly Grange) is a true country club experience for disc golf. If you get the chance to play here, consider yourself lucky.
Hole 1 - an open par 4 with the tee shot over the pond,
Hole 9 - a short open downhill par 3 with the corral surrounding the basket,
Hole 10 - a par 4 with undulating elevation with somewhat open tee shot and my favorite green scattered with sculptured shrubs,
Hole 11 - a somewhat open par 4 with sloping elevation,
Hole 15 - an open uphill par 3 with a berm/bunker protecting the basket on a shallow green,
Hole 16 - short downhill par 3 tees from the woods into the open and across the pond with the basket just across it.
The Blockhouse(formerly Grange) is a true country club experience for disc golf. If you get the chance to play here, consider yourself lucky.
1
3
Shamis
Experience:
13.8 years
74 played
14 reviews
good variety 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Aug 18, 2013
Played the course:once
Pros:
Very nice mix of open and wooded holes. The turf tees are surprisingly good. Several really tight fairways and some long bombs. Also had a good mix of elevation changes and hazards. Some very unique holes such as the cattle chute hole where the basket is surrounded by fences.
The staff was friendly.
The staff was friendly.
Cons:
Only con would be that based on the terrain they have there they could have easily added a few really cool watershots that would've spiced things up a bit.
2
6
krob190
Experience:
11 years
12 played
3 reviews
Beautiful Place 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:Jul 15, 2013
Played the course:once
Pros:
The Sunnyside Course uses a great combination of wooded and open holes to always keep you guessing. There is a challenge to the course, but it plays fair at the same time. The conditions are excellent and the facilty is accomodating of all skill levels.
The maintenance of the facility was quite impressive, a lot of time and thought go into the design details which makes it well worth the $5 price to play all day.
The pro shop on site had Innova and Discraft discs to purchase at prices that are cheaper than most retail stores.
The maintenance of the facility was quite impressive, a lot of time and thought go into the design details which makes it well worth the $5 price to play all day.
The pro shop on site had Innova and Discraft discs to purchase at prices that are cheaper than most retail stores.
Cons:
There was the occasion where I was not sure how to get to the next hole. But, a long look around allowed me to figure it out pretty quickly.
Other Thoughts:
I have only been playing disc golf for a couple of months, but I am really impressed with the Blockhouse facility. Great pro shop, friendly staff. I feel like this course was difficult enough to challenge an experienced player yet not so tough that a beginner would get frustrated in the least. I will definitely be returning here.
9
0
Keep on the Sunnyside 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Sep 22, 2012
Played the course:once
Pros:
Layout - Good mix of hole types and a solid mixture of distances. Gives you a lot of different looks and makes you work your disc.
Good use of the elevation and other features on the property. Some really good uphill/downhill shots. They use the creeks/ponds on the course very effectively to create risk/reward.
Lots of interesting basket placements; one in a corral, one surrounded by tall bushy plants, some near a creek and water, a few guarded by trees.
The course has a really good flow to it that brings you in and out of the woods and keeps the round interesting. It's also pretty easy to follow the course as paths are defined.
The open bomber holes are fun to let some discs rip but also forces you to be accurate. The shorter holes usually make you work a disc through some tight gaps.
Equipment - Large astroturf pads, could be a problem for some but I had no problem with them. Most of the baskets are in good shape and had big flags making them visible which helps with the blind shots. Good signage on the course and benches at most holes.
There were water coolers set up on the course with some fresh cold water as well.
Atmosphere - The Blockhouse as a whole has a good feel to it but the Sunnyside course just has something extra that makes the round super fun.
Lots of great looking shots on an amazing rolling hills property which is maintained at a top notch level. Some cool decorations are thrown in places along with hole themes.
Some cool facilities on the property as well like a pro shop, bathrooms, arcade...
Good use of the elevation and other features on the property. Some really good uphill/downhill shots. They use the creeks/ponds on the course very effectively to create risk/reward.
Lots of interesting basket placements; one in a corral, one surrounded by tall bushy plants, some near a creek and water, a few guarded by trees.
The course has a really good flow to it that brings you in and out of the woods and keeps the round interesting. It's also pretty easy to follow the course as paths are defined.
The open bomber holes are fun to let some discs rip but also forces you to be accurate. The shorter holes usually make you work a disc through some tight gaps.
Equipment - Large astroturf pads, could be a problem for some but I had no problem with them. Most of the baskets are in good shape and had big flags making them visible which helps with the blind shots. Good signage on the course and benches at most holes.
There were water coolers set up on the course with some fresh cold water as well.
Atmosphere - The Blockhouse as a whole has a good feel to it but the Sunnyside course just has something extra that makes the round super fun.
Lots of great looking shots on an amazing rolling hills property which is maintained at a top notch level. Some cool decorations are thrown in places along with hole themes.
Some cool facilities on the property as well like a pro shop, bathrooms, arcade...
Cons:
Layout - Possibly a few to many 300ish wooded tight holes. Going in to it I figured there would be more open to the Sunnyside. There are some holes that aren't anything special. 18 is on that list and isn't the best way to finish such a great course.
There were a few confusing spots where at first it seemed like you were playing to a mini basket. Look for the flags on top of the baskets.
Atmosphere - A few muddy marsh type areas you have to avoid, they're usually marked off with flags as OB. Some holes didn't look as great as others.
Equipment - The pads could be an issue for some being that they are astroturf. I thought they were appropriate. Some of the baskets weren't in the best condition.
There were a few confusing spots where at first it seemed like you were playing to a mini basket. Look for the flags on top of the baskets.
Atmosphere - A few muddy marsh type areas you have to avoid, they're usually marked off with flags as OB. Some holes didn't look as great as others.
Equipment - The pads could be an issue for some being that they are astroturf. I thought they were appropriate. Some of the baskets weren't in the best condition.
Other Thoughts:
Easily my favorite of the three courses on the property. Much funner round than Darkside while still providing a stiff challenge. You'll use more of your repetoire on this one. Really is a special place.
They also use the back 9 of Sunnyside for glow along with the Tiki course. Played that and had a blast, encourage everyone to experience this place at night at least once.
This course is pay to play and it's worth it. This is a must hit if you're in the area.
They also use the back 9 of Sunnyside for glow along with the Tiki course. Played that and had a blast, encourage everyone to experience this place at night at least once.
This course is pay to play and it's worth it. This is a must hit if you're in the area.
2
2
J-Mo
Experience:
29 years
27 played
7 reviews
Sweet course! 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Jul 10, 2012
Played the course:once
Pros:
This course was so much fun to play. Awesome variety of open and wooded holes, close and far holes. The grass fairways were well groomed, the tee boxes were set up nicely, and some of the bushes were even hedged. You can tell that the owners take care of this course alot!
Cons:
Tee pads were horrible. They were all of different materials and it seemed like none of them were the same size. Some were dirt, some artifical turf, some carpet. Kind of annoying, especially when there isn't a place to the side of the tee to throw from...so even if the tee was muddy or wet etc, you couldn't even throw from the side of the tee box to prevent injury.
I didn't see any trash cans. Not a big deal, but might be nice.
$5.00 greens fees is a little pricey for this course. I would go to this course again, but at $5 a pop, I wouldn't be going here that often.
I didn't see any trash cans. Not a big deal, but might be nice.
$5.00 greens fees is a little pricey for this course. I would go to this course again, but at $5 a pop, I wouldn't be going here that often.
Other Thoughts:
Great course, and well worth the drive to check it out if you have never been. I'm glad I made the trip.
7
0
The Easier Side 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:May 23, 2010
Played the course:2-4 times
Pros:
Great mix of open, semi-wooded and wooded holes, with two 9 hole loops that bring you back to the club house area.
Water comes into play on a few holes, either by having to throw over it, or by avoiding it. Some nice views of the course and property from the higher elevated tees.
Great tee pads, most of which are the top grade synthetic ones. They drain well and are plenty wide and long. Tee signs with basket location(s) and distances provided.
Course navigation is fairly straight forward and not difficult even with out a map.
Club house, bathroom, game room and pro shop, not to mention two other courses on the property. Very convenient to I-95, about half way between Richmond and DC.
Water comes into play on a few holes, either by having to throw over it, or by avoiding it. Some nice views of the course and property from the higher elevated tees.
Great tee pads, most of which are the top grade synthetic ones. They drain well and are plenty wide and long. Tee signs with basket location(s) and distances provided.
Course navigation is fairly straight forward and not difficult even with out a map.
Club house, bathroom, game room and pro shop, not to mention two other courses on the property. Very convenient to I-95, about half way between Richmond and DC.
Cons:
Muddy and swampy in spots, especially during or after a heavy rain.
Other Thoughts:
This course, along with the other two courses on property, make this a disc golfers paradise. Only about 15 minutes off of I-95, it is a nice diversion to your trip on the I-95 corridor.
Besides all the disc golf that one can play here, there are other amenities, such as the game room and snack bar to keep you entertained between rounds.
Seeing is believing, so make sure you stop by and see for yourself.
Besides all the disc golf that one can play here, there are other amenities, such as the game room and snack bar to keep you entertained between rounds.
Seeing is believing, so make sure you stop by and see for yourself.
4
1
Just Plain Outstanding 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:Nov 10, 2009
Played the course:2-4 times
Pros:
Mike T. and his merry band have created a most enchanting disc golf experience. Two 18 hole championship courses plus a bonus Tiki (par 2 night course) await you. Plan an entire afternoon to enjoy this labor of love.
This course features a classic disc golf layout of open rolling farm pasture that will allow you to air out your drivers and tight woods that will use Everything in your bag. Many of these wooded holes are even more wooded than the Dark Side, so don't plan on leaving your accuracy game behind. The property is gorgeous and was sheer delight to be playing during the golden evening hours. Flow was outstanding and seemed easy to navigate (though I was with a group of locals). The 9th hole finished at the clubhouse, which was nice. This hole which I call "The Corral" is a fenced in area at about 300' distance (it is slated to become #18 as it is a more classic finish).
Each hole seemed unique from the others. One is a monster that doglegs right through a tight fairway then thick woods-which they plan to lengthen another 100'. It should rate a par 4 for certain. Teepads are in top condition with AstroTurf on many and crushed granite on others (this apparently eliminates mud and drains well).
This course features a classic disc golf layout of open rolling farm pasture that will allow you to air out your drivers and tight woods that will use Everything in your bag. Many of these wooded holes are even more wooded than the Dark Side, so don't plan on leaving your accuracy game behind. The property is gorgeous and was sheer delight to be playing during the golden evening hours. Flow was outstanding and seemed easy to navigate (though I was with a group of locals). The 9th hole finished at the clubhouse, which was nice. This hole which I call "The Corral" is a fenced in area at about 300' distance (it is slated to become #18 as it is a more classic finish).
Each hole seemed unique from the others. One is a monster that doglegs right through a tight fairway then thick woods-which they plan to lengthen another 100'. It should rate a par 4 for certain. Teepads are in top condition with AstroTurf on many and crushed granite on others (this apparently eliminates mud and drains well).
Cons:
As with the Darkside, would do good to have a couple "next tee" signs, but this is a minor nitpick. Also, a couple holes could be rated par 4's.
Other Thoughts:
I prefer this slightly over the Darkside course, but recommend you take at least a half day to play both and then include the Tiki course as your early night wind-down.
7
0
Great Private Course 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Jul 1, 2009
Played the course:once
Pros:
There are a lot of very interesting holes on this course. Hole 9 stands out in this regard. You throw across a small valley to a basket that is inside of a small fenced in area. This is complicated because of structures on the backside and right side of the fenced area.
While called "Sunnyside" there are a good number of holes in the woods with pretty narrow fairways. There are not as many tight wooded holes as on "Darkside" but still plenty for a good mix.
This is an exceptionally well maintained course. The tees are all well packed and have rakes alongside to fix any problem spots. All the holes have seating available for the rest of the members of your party and many of them even have covered spots to get out of the elements or the sun. The seating is everything from wooden benches to old connected "airport" chairs. There are new looking tee signs on every hole and they look great. While heavily wooded this is one of the easiest courses to navigate that I have played. There were signs pointing to the next tee in almost every situation where there would be a question as where to go next. Additionally even though there is a great possibility of a couple of throws going off the fairway this is not a huge problem because it is very easy to locate your disc. There is really no underbrush to speak of and most discs stand out well in contrast to the leaf covered ground.
While called "Sunnyside" there are a good number of holes in the woods with pretty narrow fairways. There are not as many tight wooded holes as on "Darkside" but still plenty for a good mix.
This is an exceptionally well maintained course. The tees are all well packed and have rakes alongside to fix any problem spots. All the holes have seating available for the rest of the members of your party and many of them even have covered spots to get out of the elements or the sun. The seating is everything from wooden benches to old connected "airport" chairs. There are new looking tee signs on every hole and they look great. While heavily wooded this is one of the easiest courses to navigate that I have played. There were signs pointing to the next tee in almost every situation where there would be a question as where to go next. Additionally even though there is a great possibility of a couple of throws going off the fairway this is not a huge problem because it is very easy to locate your disc. There is really no underbrush to speak of and most discs stand out well in contrast to the leaf covered ground.
Cons:
Not too much to say here. While navigation is fairly easy between holes it would still be nice to have a map. Also a lot of the holes felt like "tweeners" to me. They are difficult to birdie but almost more difficult to bogey (if you can stay on the fairway with your drive). Of course this observation might just because of where I am as a player right now.
Other Thoughts:
This was my first experience with a privately owned course. I have to admit I was a little apprehensive at first. It seemed very strange to pull into someone's driveway and then get out and play disc golf. I quickly got past this because of how welcoming Mike and the others who maintain this course are to all the visitors.
I appreciate very accurate directions on the "course info" section of this site because when navigating my way to a new course I am always wondering if I am going the right direction. Once exit I-95 and get on Rte 606 it turns into Rte 208 after about 6 miles. If you go straight through this intersection then Rte 648 is two miles down the road. The rest of the directions are perfect.
I appreciate very accurate directions on the "course info" section of this site because when navigating my way to a new course I am always wondering if I am going the right direction. Once exit I-95 and get on Rte 606 it turns into Rte 208 after about 6 miles. If you go straight through this intersection then Rte 648 is two miles down the road. The rest of the directions are perfect.
7
0
A course to remember. 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Jun 21, 2009
Played the course:once
Pros:
This was the first of 3 courses at the Grange's 56 acre piece of land. It has a slightly more contemporary feel than its sister course the Darkside.
It starts out with a big bomb over a pond and finishes over a marsh area with the basket in an old cattle truck loading pen.
The baskets are well placed with the area surrounding them well maintained. They are all in good shape and do a good job of catching the disc.
The tee pads are old carpet and I think astro turf. But they play well. Some are the rock dust and chips and I understand that will be the case with all of them eventually.
They have just put up new tee signs and I like them very much. They are colorful and easy to understand.
They have used the course topography well. The fairways are kept clean and are manageable.I saw no crossing fairways and the no areas where you could be in harms way when someone else is throwing from another basket. After the first couple accuracy and patience become the game here. Forcing your throw and getting into the woods will add many throws. While there are a lot of trees finding a disc was not abnormally hard because they do work at keeping the undergrowth down. However there are several water hazards and OB's but they are well defined with rope and the signs show them accurately. There is a variety of straight, left to right and right to left. Some will give you multiple looks. There is enough variety in distances to have an ace chance and to go for distance. It has more balance to it than the Darkside course.
Like the Darkside, to me the best part was the flow of the course. It just seemed to fit. Because of this and the obvious wear on the paths it was easy to get around the course. Even without a map.
This course is more contemporary than the Darkside. It mixes the fairways with a couple of bombers and has some very tight alleys. It also has a section where deuces can be hide by a good rec player.
I did not see any foliage that was hazardous (poison ivy, oak and such) but I do hate those prickly hollies that are everywhere.
There are plenty of benches and several of the tee areas have small covered structures to get under.
Many of the tees on all three courses have a theme. My favorite was here and was called the fish hole. A three hundred foot dog leg right that goes down then up. I did it in 3.
There are regular events to take part in. Every Friday is a glow game, The monthly played on Saturday mornings, and the Virginia Open is played here.
The attitude of everyone I met was great and Mike, the owner, is one of a kind.
There is a good pro shop on site.
It starts out with a big bomb over a pond and finishes over a marsh area with the basket in an old cattle truck loading pen.
The baskets are well placed with the area surrounding them well maintained. They are all in good shape and do a good job of catching the disc.
The tee pads are old carpet and I think astro turf. But they play well. Some are the rock dust and chips and I understand that will be the case with all of them eventually.
They have just put up new tee signs and I like them very much. They are colorful and easy to understand.
They have used the course topography well. The fairways are kept clean and are manageable.I saw no crossing fairways and the no areas where you could be in harms way when someone else is throwing from another basket. After the first couple accuracy and patience become the game here. Forcing your throw and getting into the woods will add many throws. While there are a lot of trees finding a disc was not abnormally hard because they do work at keeping the undergrowth down. However there are several water hazards and OB's but they are well defined with rope and the signs show them accurately. There is a variety of straight, left to right and right to left. Some will give you multiple looks. There is enough variety in distances to have an ace chance and to go for distance. It has more balance to it than the Darkside course.
Like the Darkside, to me the best part was the flow of the course. It just seemed to fit. Because of this and the obvious wear on the paths it was easy to get around the course. Even without a map.
This course is more contemporary than the Darkside. It mixes the fairways with a couple of bombers and has some very tight alleys. It also has a section where deuces can be hide by a good rec player.
I did not see any foliage that was hazardous (poison ivy, oak and such) but I do hate those prickly hollies that are everywhere.
There are plenty of benches and several of the tee areas have small covered structures to get under.
Many of the tees on all three courses have a theme. My favorite was here and was called the fish hole. A three hundred foot dog leg right that goes down then up. I did it in 3.
There are regular events to take part in. Every Friday is a glow game, The monthly played on Saturday mornings, and the Virginia Open is played here.
The attitude of everyone I met was great and Mike, the owner, is one of a kind.
There is a good pro shop on site.
Cons:
There are not many cons here but its not perfect.
This course has thicker foliage and some marsh areas that the other 2 courses do not and can eat a disc.
Drainage was also a problem in some areas. I found myself slipping and sliding even when I stayed on the fairway.
Bring plenty to drink.The physical exertion is high here and there are no water fountains. There are a few 5 gallon water jugs spread out but I could not bring myself to use them. Its not Mike and the gang but not everyone is as trustworthy.
Parking could be tight on a busy day.
There are no par markings on any of the baskets and it is assumed that all are a 3. At least a couple of them should be 4's
They serve beer here and while I did not see anyone acting inappropriate it may be an issue with some.
This course has thicker foliage and some marsh areas that the other 2 courses do not and can eat a disc.
Drainage was also a problem in some areas. I found myself slipping and sliding even when I stayed on the fairway.
Bring plenty to drink.The physical exertion is high here and there are no water fountains. There are a few 5 gallon water jugs spread out but I could not bring myself to use them. Its not Mike and the gang but not everyone is as trustworthy.
Parking could be tight on a busy day.
There are no par markings on any of the baskets and it is assumed that all are a 3. At least a couple of them should be 4's
They serve beer here and while I did not see anyone acting inappropriate it may be an issue with some.
Other Thoughts:
I thoroughly enjoyed this course. I do not want an easy time but I don't want it to half kill me either. This course accomplishes that. Aside from the water hazards, marsh and some poor drainage this is a course more suited to a wider variety of people.
If you only have time for one course to play and you have group of people with various skill levels than this is the one to play.
Everyone from Mike to the players were nice and willing to work with a first time player to this course.
With its old school charm (hippie and courses) and overall quality experience I now understand why this place has become sort of the holy grail for disc gold in Virginia.
There is also a nice in ground pool here. So bring the family and they can swim while you play. Then dive in when you or all of you are done playing golf.
If you only have time for one course to play and you have group of people with various skill levels than this is the one to play.
Everyone from Mike to the players were nice and willing to work with a first time player to this course.
With its old school charm (hippie and courses) and overall quality experience I now understand why this place has become sort of the holy grail for disc gold in Virginia.
There is also a nice in ground pool here. So bring the family and they can swim while you play. Then dive in when you or all of you are done playing golf.
8
2
InfiniteSight
Experience:
20.8 years
131 played
8 reviews
Disc Golfer's Paradise 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Oct 17, 2008
Played the course:2-4 times
Pros:
A great experience. Baskets lit up with rope lights at night. A gumball dispenser that had led lights for discs. Some great power throw opportunities with many technical holes. Good variety of elevation and a couple good water shots. Almost every kind of throw comes into play here. They have the coolest clubhouse on the planet. A stage with live music, food, big arcade, swimming pool, hot tub, a bus load of discs for sale, and an all around good vibe. For a private course this place is unbelievable.
Cons:
Can be tricky to find your way through the first time but not too bad.
Variety of tee pads. Wish they were concrete
The hole they call plinko is very tough to maneuver your disc through. It sits behind many skinny trees that stand close together.
Variety of tee pads. Wish they were concrete
The hole they call plinko is very tough to maneuver your disc through. It sits behind many skinny trees that stand close together.
Other Thoughts:
Camping was a blast. If possible make a weekend of it. You won't wanna leave. Very cool owners that deserve a donation and a round of applause for making this place. Every town needs a Grange.
14
1
Disc Golf Mecca! 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Updated:
Played on:Sep 1, 2008
Played the course:once
Pros:
*The grange overall = Two 18-hole challenging & immaculately groomed courses, an 18-hole lit practice course, a clubhouse with an old-school video game arcade and a pool -- all on the same piece of private land!
*Challenging holes with variety of open & wooded, short & long
*Defined fairways - I thought both courses were tight but very fair - good shots are rewarded and bad shots punished
*Character - lots of it, in random artwork, varying teepads, etc
*Aesthetic appeal - beautiful & beautifully maintained piece of land
*Extras like covered tee areas - I haven't seen this before and imagine it would be amazing on a super hot or rainy day
*All 3 courses are extremely fun to play
*Challenging holes with variety of open & wooded, short & long
*Defined fairways - I thought both courses were tight but very fair - good shots are rewarded and bad shots punished
*Character - lots of it, in random artwork, varying teepads, etc
*Aesthetic appeal - beautiful & beautifully maintained piece of land
*Extras like covered tee areas - I haven't seen this before and imagine it would be amazing on a super hot or rainy day
*All 3 courses are extremely fun to play
Cons:
*Not all tee signs have distances marked
*Not very beginner friendly
*Par 3 courses
Really not much in the way of cons...
*Not very beginner friendly
*Par 3 courses
Really not much in the way of cons...
Other Thoughts:
We played the grange courses immediately after playing the courses in Paw Paw, WV -- so they seemed very friendly in comparison. The courses alone are probably 4-4.5 star courses, but when you combine the setting, atmosphere & having everything at one location, this sets the bar for courses in my opinion.
Sunnyside has a mix of open & wooded holes & seemed to be easier; Darkside is entirely wooded & seemed a bit tougher. I liked both about the same - different in a good & complimentary way.
This is an amazing place to visit and should definitely be high on your list of places to play.
$5 to play and worth every penny
Sunnyside has a mix of open & wooded holes & seemed to be easier; Darkside is entirely wooded & seemed a bit tougher. I liked both about the same - different in a good & complimentary way.
This is an amazing place to visit and should definitely be high on your list of places to play.
$5 to play and worth every penny
14
2
Home On The Grange! 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Jul 15, 2003
Played the course:never
Pros:
I've got to admire (wonder about?) someone who puts this kind of time, $ and commitment into building and maintaining two full 18 hole courses plus a smaller putting course. 54 baskets plus? The courses sit on a lovely piece of property in the Virginia countryside. There's lots of elevation changes, fairways cut into the deep forrest, benches, open holes, holes that throw over ponds. One basket sits in a corral. On one course, you finish on both #17 and #18, with throws downhill over ponds. One basket was placed right on the edge of the pond adding to the challenge. The courses features two sets of tees. In summary, these courses feature an amazing amount of work put into by the owners and will CHALLENGE your game!
Cons:
Some of wooded fairways are ridiculously tight, maybe 6 feet wide. Hit a tree and carom into some real trouble on those. I think we had a little trouble navigating parts of the course. The signs weren't always the most clear.
Other Thoughts:
Personally, I'd probably rate this course a little lower because I felt it was pretty much "over my skill level" as a recreational player. I enjoyed my experience there one time but if it were my home course, I would soon grow weary of looking for errant throws in the woods and gullys and fishing my discs out of the ponds. But I'll stand by this rating knowing that many disc golfers would absolutely love everything about the Grange experience. Remember it's private so call first.
