Talco, TX

Selah Ranch - Creekside

4.695(based on 62 reviews)
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23 0
wellsbranch250
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience: 10.8 years 694 played 680 reviews
4.00 star(s)

New Ownership, With New Focus, Seemingly Elsewhere. 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:May 20, 2022 Played the course:once

Pros:

(4.172 Rating with a cart, 3.909 without a cart) A championship style course that does not appear to be getting the love it once did.
- OVERVIEW - Before I begin the pros, I'm want to disclose a few things. First, I did not get a golf cart. I threw this course (Creekside) first, and I threw the short Red tees. The conditions were not good when I played on a Friday morning, but for my evaluation I have decided to ignore the unmowed conditions and assume that I caught a rare bad day. Anyways, the reason I have given two scores, is because the carts likely make a huge difference.
- HOLE VARIETY - Creekside is bursting with long dynamic multi-play holes, especially from the longer Blue layout. Hole (3), wow what a great hole. It has fun gut-wrenching landing zones and water along the left the whole way. I truly hope they clean up the green on (3) as it was in really sad shape with new undergrowth and dead trees. Moving on. Seven par 4s and three par 5s from the Blues. 1000 foot holes and sub 160 foot plays depending on tee location. A couple big dogleg plays as well. Hole (10), my personal favorite hole on the course, is just superb. (10) is a long dog leg left par 5 under a canopy of large trees and offering multiple line options the first 75 percent of the hole. Then the hole sweeps left into the elongated bend of a creek with a 10 foot deep gorging element to it. (18) felt like a solid way to end it. A green with water on 3 sides. Hopefully future players won't have to deal with foot tall grasses all around the basket on (18) like I did.
- CHALLENGING - I think Creekside Blues is the more challenging of the two courses here. Several multi-play 600-foot par 4s. Lots of game planning and fairway options to pick from. Granted I shot 5 down from the Reds as an Intermediate, but I'm positive my skills would have been humbled had I tried to tackle the Blues. It's going to take Advanced level skills to break into sub-par figures routinely on the Blue layout. For those that are Rec players coming here, I advise sticking with the Red layout.
- GOLF CARTS - I highly recommend getting a cart. I think it elevates the experience quite a bit. I could see someone tacking on a ½ point or more of rating score just for this bonus item, perhaps without even realizing it. Those that do will be able to avoid the many long transitions and be less impacted if the grass is longer than it should be. Plus there will always be a place to sit in the shade. You can do donuts, have a beer holder and run over your good friends parked drive that he just bragged about.
- RAW BEAUTY - Ignoring the unmowed conditions, I would imagine this place has lots and lots of exquisite beauty. Water is in play 8 times. The pictures I saw online along the trimmed up water holes looked amazing. Too bad for me that there was 4 feet tall dissatisfying thicket along every water edge. I scored the place 93 percentile. Like I said, I forgave the unmowed conditions as I think I caught a bad day. Things like leaning baskets, deteriorating signage, mangled bridges, erosion scars, new undergrowth and lack of dynamic elevation keeps this course off my top 35 ledger for beautiful courses. Much of this can be fixed, but that would be a lot of investment.
- SIGNAGE AND NAVIGATION - The greens fee includes a scorecard with map which is very helpful. Good tee signs at both tee locations and they provide all the info that is needed. The signs are plus ten years old now and several look in dismal shape, so they could use an update. A big course map is posted before arriving at tee (1). I do wish there had been an arrow at the basket directing next tee flow. I would advise keeping a look out for the golf carts trample path between holes.
- STAFF - I spoke with Mike to reserve a tee time a week before my trip. He was kind and laid out how everything worked and the costs. The check in staff (Braylee?) was also kind and courteous.
- EXTRAS - Pro shop on site. I wanted to purchase a Selah Ranch logo disc, but they were fresh out. Restrooms, disc return bins, camping and an inn as well.

Cons:

New ownership may be focusing on things other than disc golf.
- GREENS FEE AND LACK OF MAINTENANCE - I am perfectly ok with paying a greens fee. The $25 I paid here is officially now the most I had ever paid as of this review. Even if I cut it in half, $12.50 for each course, it's still the second highest. I donated $20 for 30 holes at Flyboy. The part that bothered me about the fee, was that the course was not being maintained at all. Off the course, the maintenance was glorious. Beautifully trimmed, mowed and several landscaped gardens. On the course itself, it appeared that nothing had been touched in 3 to 4 weeks. The grass in the fairways and around the greens were consistently 8 to 10 inches high. I had to be within 10 feet of my disc several times in the fairway to finally locate it. Why am I paying a greens fee if no work is being done? That's what a greens fee is. Lines were also not being maintained. Multi-year new growth around fairway trees and new low limbs are reducing and closing off prior lines. In addition, a couple baskets are leaning, signage is deteriorating and a foot bridge is washed out between (9) and (10). I played 15 courses on this road trip and the fairway and green condition at the two Selah courses were the worst two. The other 13 courses I played were all free.
- GOLF CART COST - A 50 dollar cost for a cart rental is insane. While I was writing this review, I checked the rates for the ball golf courses around me and its normally around 20 dollars extra to ride.
- LACK OF BENCHES - For those that don't splurge and get a cart, its going to be a grind with no place to sit. Tee (18) on the red layout was the only place I noticed that had a place to sit on the entire course.
- LOST DISC POTENTIAL - As noted, water comes into play 8 times. Its going to take a gallant effort to keep em all from the longer Blue tee layout. There is also tall grasses along the wide fairway edges. I just missed the barely cut fairway a couple times and spent significant time searching. The shorter Red layout, reduces the risk quite a bit, but not it all. Bring some floaters and some throw aways.
- BEGINNER FRIENDLY - Please do not bring a first timer here. You'd be wasting your money. The red layout requires at minimum Novice level skills or at least the ability to throw straight consistently.
- PARKING - There are terrible 1 foot deep pits in the dirt parking lot.

Other Thoughts:

In kempt conditions, Creekside is an all-star course and I hope that my poor experience was just bad luck. The course elements and attributes here reminded me of several courses I've scored between a mid 4.0 and the low 4.5 range. Courses like Tom Brown, Oldsmar and especially New World and Old Warrior Run, all come to mind. Somewhat similar style courses I've played that I've rated higher such as Mahr Park, Canyons (27), and Flyboy, all have way more bombshell holes than Creekside. Although, none of these before mentioned courses offer the fun golf cart dynamic except New World. In its heyday, I think I would have scored this one a 4.5, but I have an inkling that the new ownership is not going to invest the same money and time to keep it in primo conditions. I personally don't think this course belongs in the top 25 anymore. Post play, my raw emotions wanted to drop a 3.5 or even 3.0 on it, but that's just silly and I'm glad I pondered on it quite a bit. Considering everything, I've elected to go with a high 4.0 with the carts equating to about a ¼ point in rating. And these are rating scores with a proper mow. Even in great conditions, I don't think this place is worth $25 walking or worth $75 with a cart. For those in the DFW area thinking about heading this way. Save yourself some time and money and stop at Harry Myers DGC instead.
- TIME PLAY - It took me 80 minutes without a cart solo. I think a cart would have shaved off 10 to 15 minutes.
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9 0
EspressoPatronum
Gold level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience: 19.3 years 316 played 298 reviews
4.00 star(s)

Disc Golf Deep in the Heart of Texas... Creekside Edition 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Dec 3, 2021 Played the course:once

Pros:

- area entirely devoted to disc golf
- onsite pro shop, although was hardly open while I was there and selection was very limited
- course map at start of course
- many bathrooms and ample parking
- start of course isn't obvious from parking area, but staff is helpful in locating it
- well maintained fairways
- numbered Innova DISCatcher baskets in good shape
- large concrete tees for both short and long tees
- dual tees provide variety of challenge and skill options
- high risk water shots provide a unique challenge, especially on holes 3-5
- practice basket by pro shop

Cons:

- pay to play, not necessarily a con, but at $25 it is one of the steeper fees (this covers unlimited play at both courses)
- some navigation could definitely be more clear; while there are some next tee signs, a few more are needed
- some holes are extremely long, which isn't really a con but could discourage some players; this course is really geared to intermediate and advance players
- lacking garbage cans and benches at holes

Other Thoughts:

The Selah Ranch property has been rebranded Pure Hope Ranch, which may be an ownership change. I talked to Michael to make my reservation and he was friendly and helpful in allowing me to arrive at first light to play the course and helping me navigate. One of the other employees, Frank, seemed less than thrilled I was even there for whatever reason, but oh well. For a supposedly world class course, I was shocked nobody else was there. I played 2 rounds over the course of almost 4 hours and I was the only player I ever saw on either course. It was a stark contrast to other top tier courses I've played like Blue Ribbon Pines which is always packed.

Creekside is a really cool course that is well maintained and plays near a creek with some great water hazards. In general, the long (blue) tees incorporate the water hazards more, add distance, and require greater skill. However, the red tees are still plenty challenging for the intermediate player. Both Selah Ranch courses are incredibly highly rated, and while I think both are great courses, they're a bit short of other top tier courses I've played like Blue Ribbon Pines and Idlewild. For one thing, this course has almost no elevation change, which is really a limiting factor.

Carts are available ($40 is the last I heard, but I didn't inquire), but don't believe anyone saying you "can't" walk this course. I walked Creekside and Lakeside and while it was a lot of walking, it's not much different from other long courses. There isn't much elevation change either so the idea that a cart is a must is a bit silly if you are fully able-bodied. It is a nice option if you can't walk as far or just don't want to.

Baskets, tee signs, and tees are all in great shape and I had a fun, challenging round here. I lost one disc in the water, so the risk is real, but if you choose your shots well you can definitely avoid my failures. Wind can be a bit of a factor on more open holes; this particularly factors in at the end on 17 and 18.

I'd really like to see a few more tee signs here to help with navigation. There are some, but it was still slightly confusing. Make sure you have a picture of the course map and it's not too bad to figure out. Scorecards with maps are available at the pro shop if you prefer a hard copy. One particular hole that wasn't as clear was from 9-10. After 9, continue straight past the basket on the fairway and eventually you'll see a bridge across the creek on your left. It's falling apart a bit, but it's still usable.

I originally thought some of these 5 disc ratings were from people who hadn't played much outside of east Texas. However, I've seen multiple high reviews from other respected reviewers with lots of experience, so this may just be a case of differing subjective opinions. Creekside is a great, fun, and challenging course, but to me it's not worth crossing the country to play it like some courses. However, if you're in the area, it's worth the drive. I came from over 2 hours away and I don't regret it. You can also stay at the inn on the property if you prefer and pay a discounted disc golf rate. Expect to spend closer to 2 hours to complete the course alone and longer if you have a group. This property is unique in that it has 2 full 18 hole courses that are high caliber, although there aren't many other courses around, so plan for some driving if you want to play more the same day.
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13 0
dgaficionado
Gold level trusted reviewer
Premium Member
Experience: 34.4 years 285 played 37 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Sprawling, Prairie Course with (Pond)ering Challenges 2+ years

Reviewed: Updated: Played on:Mar 11, 2018 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

+ challenging course design
+ exciting water features
+ dramatic finishing hole
+ true par 4 and par 5 holes
+ meaningful long and short tees
+ golf carts available to rent
+ pro shop that sells discs

Cons:

- requires fee to play
- lengthy course to walk
- intimidating water hazards
- lots of standing water after recent rains
- several opportunities to lose discs

Other Thoughts:

INFO
Selah Ranch - Creekside is one of two courses located on the resort property of Selah Ranch which offers various guest accommodations and camping options for overnight stays. Selah Ranch exemplifies a disc golf vacation destination and is often paired with a visit to nearby Texas Trey Ranch for a true disc golf destination experience. This is a private course that charges fees to play and offers golf carts to rent for rounds of play.

EVAL
Creekside is named after the creek that divides its front nine and back nine holes, but it's the four small ponds that generate the most excitement on this sprawling, prairie course. Players are challenged on the seven pond holes to stay inbounds with throws that must either hug tight or cross over water. Many of the subsequent holes on the course mainly serve to deliver players to these prominent water features, though there are other interesting throws to discover away from those OB-threatening water hazards.

(Inevitable) Creekside and Lakeside Comparison
Both Lakeside and Creekside courses incorporate great water hazards as challenging features. Lakeside's other holes mainly play through woods on focused paths whereas Creekside's other holes mostly throw out in open, grassy fields. Between the two I prefer Lakeside's attractions, especially island hole #7 which is memorable for being so difficult and scenic. The throws over water on Creekside feel equally intimidating, but they seem less scenic due to being surrounded only by fields instead of tall trees. It's true that trees on a disc golf course are influential as both obstacles and scenery. To that point, I enjoy the technical, wooded holes on Lakeside more than the expansive, pasture holes on Creekside.

NOTE
This championship caliber course hosts state and national tournaments and generally consists of many long distance holes to challenge professional players. Alternate red tees accommodate recreational/advanced players with shorter distances on most holes.

LAYOUT
The front nine plays on the back side of the creek with wide open holes to start and then loops out to holes #3-5 which wrap around the first pond: a reedy, curved watering hole that will surely test the finesse of RHBH throws. The following hole #6 is also a bit of a finesse shot while the remainder of the front nine holes primarily test one's distance, repeatedly. Hole #9 borders the creek but is minimally impacted by it.

The back nine better utilizes the creek with par 5 hole #10 which lies on the opposite side of the creek from #9 and drives past many trees to hook around a significant bend in the creek on the way to the green. A rare, standout hole unaffected by water is uphill #12 which emphasizes thoughtful drive placement from which to attack the green with an approach. Next up is the second and smallest pond which must be thrown across from a slightly blind tee position on #13. After a couple finesse holes, players reach the final two ponds where they will finish the round on #16-18 testing their comfort level with risk vs. reward play. Players receive a glimpse of these three holes whenever first arriving at the pro shop to start a round. That precursor now develops into back to back to back tests of one's mental game in handling OB water hazards waiting to swallow any misthrown drives, approaches or putts. Players must skirt the entire length of the pond on hole #16 to reach the safety of the green at its far corner; players must carry one end of the pond on hole #17 with a drive off the tee; and signature hole #18 provides a dramatic finish as players risk reaching a safe landing initially with their drive, or later with their approach, over water to a narrow, jutting peninsula.
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17 0
dreadlock86
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 17.5 years 388 played 318 reviews
4.50 star(s)

the other challenge at Selah 2+ years

Reviewed: Updated: Played on:May 5, 2019 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

-top notch design, a true golf course
-great piece of land with some woods, more open areas, 4 ponds, and a creek
-excellent tees, signs, Discatchers
-great signature holes: 3, 10, 16-18
-wide variety of holes and shot types but more open & placement shots than Lakeside
-much bigger difference between blues and reds compared to Lakeside
-playing smart is rewarded, lots of risk/reward opportunites, you really need to know the landing zones
-golf carts, camping, room rentals available on site
-rest rooms and showers
-limited pro shop
-excellent 2nd course on site
-pay to play, i think this is a pro
-friendly staff

Cons:

-like Lakeside, one of the biggest cons is the lack of elevation on the course. there are elevated tees on 1 & 9 but that's pretty much it except for some slow rolling hills on a few longer holes
-there are not as many memorable holes as there are on Lakeside
-many opportunities to lose discs in the water; less experienced players or those unexperienced in the wind may end up rather frustrated
-the cost for a weekend can add up quickly; this may tempt you to do something like skipping out on a cart but...
-playing without a cart is a long, arduous endeavor despite the mostly flat land
-a busy weekend can mean all the carts are already booked
-if you're walking the course, there are no benches
-it's a bit of a drive from the ranch to town; plan your food, beverages, and coolers accordingly

Other Thoughts:

***Update Aug 2022***
Selah Ranch disc golf courses are about to be permanently closed Sept 2022. It's a real bummer but I tell myself it's a better outcome than neutering the courses and continuing the downward spiral of poor maintenance. It's unfortunate that some of the more recent travelers to Selah had less than stellar experiences. Selah at its peak was a very special place. Treasure your favorite private courses because they are ephemeral. RIP
*****

Selah Ranch is an amazing DG destination with two fantastic courses, beautiful scenery, and a plethora of amenities. From tent camping to the Corral House to the rooms at the Inn, there is an option for most budgets and comfort requirements. The courses are on a sprawling property with woods, meadows, open spaces, lakes, ponds, and creeks. You really get a sense of seclusion when you're out playing at Selah.

Creekside is a bit more open than Lakeside but actually features more water holes. Holes 3-5, 13, 16, 17-18 play over or along the four ponds on Creekside and holes 9-10 have the creek in play. Only a handful holes have a wooded line to hit but there are many holes with clearly defined fairways with thick rough and large trees dot the centers of a number of fairways also. With only eight par 3s, there is a lot of strategy and placement golf on the numerous longer holes. You really need to know your own game and keep it in the fairway.

Of the eight par 3s, five of them have a pond in play and all of those have the edge of the pond inside the circle. Like the par 3s on Lakeside, they are pretty short but the water danger makes them much more challenging, even if only mentally. The longer holes with water in play are probably the better holes on the course and hole 3 is my favorite. An open tee shot must land in the opening between two large trees just shy of the pond. The second shot must avoid the pond on the left and the tree line on the right to access the green at the edge of the water. Hole 16 is also a highlight.

The blue and red tees have a much greater distance differential than the Lakeside course's tees. The blues are a serious challenge to stay dry, stay in the fairway, and get in position to score. The reds are much safer for less experienced players or anyone concerned with losing plastic but it's still a long track. The course also covers a much greater distance overall. This is a real killer if you can't secure a cart or opt to go without one. These courses really need benches.

I am a fan of pay to play courses but the cost can add up quickly here. Room or camping fee plus greens fee (no discount for tent campers) plus cart fee. It's best if you have a group to go with otherwise you're looking at $60 for each day of golf. You really are going to want a cart too because the courses are really long and spread out. Also note that during tournaments here, there are not enough carts for everyone so carts are not available. The carts are also not available the day of rain or if the courses have a lot of standing water. All those factors combined can make planning a trip here a challenge.

Overall, Selah Ranch offers a one of a kind disc golf experience. I've camped here and I've also stayed in the Corral House and either way it's a great time. Obviously it's a lot cheaper with a group but I suppose that helps give it that destination feel to be out there with your buddies. Creekside has some fantastic holes, lots of water and pucker factor, and never relents on demanding accurate execution. As always, hats off to Mr. Houck.


**Like this review? Hate it? Message me and let me know why! I want to make them better!**
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4 7
RedbirdinTX
Experience: 18 played 9 reviews
5.00 star(s)

Here is your golf trip 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Updated: Played on:Oct 6, 2018 Played the course:5+ times

Pros:

A challenging course that will test your arm, this course has wooded and open field shots. There are two sets of tee boxes for almost every hole. The baskets are in great condition. The course is maintained daily. There is a small disc store on site. The owner is very pleasant. Golf carts are available.

Cons:

It can get expensive to play out here as there is an admission fee, and you will most likely lose discs.

Other Thoughts:

If you want to get the most bang for your buck, you will need to rent a golf cart. The walk around the course is quite long. Bring lots of bug spray, this is East Texas, there are a bevy of insects that want to eat you up. Bring plenty of water, food, beer, whatever you think you will want as the drive to town is about 15 minutes away and everything shuts down early. This is the disc golf getaway spot in North Texas.
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11 0
blake833
Gold level trusted reviewer
Experience: 14.5 years 161 played 142 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Pairs well with a nice red 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Nov 13, 2018 Played the course:once

Pros:

Selah Ranch is a beautiful place to play disc golf. They have truly dedicated some of their sprawling landscape of forest, hills, and water to the sport. John Houck seems to have given his best effort in designing this course.

Hole 1 is a stunner, throwing from a raised dirt road across a shallow valley to the tee on the other side. It's a much better starting hole than Lakeside, which I do think is the better course overall. But creekside doesn't disappoint. There interplay with the creek is well done, creating some great risk reward, fairway/green shaping (Hole 10 stands out as one of the most challenging but most memorable).

This course, like its partner, is loooong. The cart makes it so much fun though. I've never played with a cart before, but those lil red things, despite their seemingly sluggish top speed, adds a real sense of luxury this sport otherwise lacks.

Cons:

It doesn't finish as well as the rest of the course plays. The last few holes play along the small lakes/ponds, but it's not the same. Any other course it would be fine, but here it feels just anti-climactic.

It is long. Even with the cart.

It can be terribly muddy. Standing water on the fairways. The carts can handle it, but you're still going to get wet.

Obviously I'm really reaching here.

Other Thoughts:

Selah is a beautiful, but expensive. Greens fees, cart fees (optional but you won't regret it afterwards), and lost disc replacement. If you can play both courses without losing a disc, congrats you're a pro. If you're a mere mortal like me, be ready to say goodbye to your friends. (this could go in the cons as well)

The hospitality out here is superb as well. They called me to give me weather updates and were totally ok with me moving my visit back a day till after the rain blew through, and luckily it still fit into my road trip.

There are a couple other great courses south of here at Trey Ranch, and in the DFW area. As a native Houstonian, and current resident of south Louisiana, I don't understand what Dallas did to deserve such great disc golf but I'm a little jealous.
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7 1
MadGame32
Gold level trusted reviewer
Experience: 7.8 years 69 played 69 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Birthday Trip 2+ years

Reviewed: Updated: Played on:Mar 24, 2018 Played the course:once

Pros:

-Great tee boxes
-Great tee signs
-Scorecards with map
-Good mix of long and short holes
-Golf carts
-Painted reference points at 200 and 300 ft from goals
-Well maintained course
-Ranch has a diver that collects discs from water and the pro shop will hold them for you to pick up
-Very few mandos in play because it was well designed.
-Pro shop on site
-Very friendly staff

Cons:

-Costs for play and golf cart
-There is some water in play that will eat disks
-Closest place for lunch is 8 miles away


Other Thoughts:

This was the less difficult of the two courses at the ranch, but it is by no means a pushover. The golf carts are a definite must due to the terrain and length of the course. The longer holes are not just bomber holes. They required proper placement to get through the hole. Holes 3, 4, 5, 16, 17 and 18 really bring the water into play. It was not as hard as Lakeside, but still definitely challenging. Hole 18 is awesome and tough.

I was torn on how to rate this course. It was the first time I have ever paid a significant amount to play disc golf. At $20 to play and $40 for a cart, I just don't think the value is here other than to say you played one of the highest rated courses in the world. I have played courses that were just as well maintained that I enjoyed just as much as this one. I think a few steps could be taken to really ratchet up the allure of this venue. First, I would suggest putting water coolers in every few holes where people can grab some water. Second, I would recommend offering a sack lunch (for a fair fee) that could either be delivered to golfers on the course, or made available at the Inn or pro shop. This would let golfers play more and increase the value to playing at this pay for play facility.

I would definitely recommend playing this one and its sister course on site if you get the chance, but, while it is very good, there is not really anything going on here right now that is "next level."

3/29/21 Update:

Out of the 68 courses I have reviewed, this is where this course ranks along with similarly rated courses:
Rank-Course, Location
1-Munson Park, Denison, TX
2-Holston Creek DGC, Inman, SC
3-Noble DGC, Noble, OK
4-Selah Ranch - Creekside, Talco, TX
5-Fritz Park, Irving, TX
6-Selah Ranch - Lakeside, Talco, TX
7-Shaver Recreation Center Championship, Seneca, SC
8-Tyger River DGC, Reidville, SC
9-N.E. Lions Park, Norman, OK
10-Grand Central Station, Central, SC
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4 9
Gropester
Experience: 8 played 8 reviews
3.50 star(s)

Excellent GOLD course (3rd of the 4) 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Mar 2, 2018 Played the course:once

Pros:

Excellent GOLD level course with a good variety of shots and use of water. From blues it was a very long round, but I can't say I found any of the holes boring. A mix of open shots on the front snaking through the woods and a creek in the middle, and across the lake on the back.
- Solid tee pads and signage for both blue/red positions, Discatcher baskets gobbled up putts and were easily visible.
- Easy to navigate with the provided scorecard maps

Cons:

Amenities were lacking
- No benches, and remember these are LONG courses
- Not much elevation change
- *Some* of the staff extremely rude (most were nice)
- Poor course flow as walk distance from hole to hole was really long

Other Thoughts:

When we played the course was in poor condition due to rain, which made two 9,000 ft rounds extra grueling as carts were not allowed. From strictly course layout I'd rate this 4/5, but with the lack of amenities there are many courses that do more than Selah. Of the 4 Trey/Selah courses we thought this was 3rd best to Trey Deuce.
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13 0
markmcc
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 12.5 years 278 played 254 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Another Fantastic Course 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Nov 29, 2017 Played the course:once

Pros:

The Selah Ranch Disc Golf courses are amazing. From check-in at the Pro Shop to the final hole, this complex demonstrates how good pay-to-play can be.

Start with the course infrastructure, which is top of the line. Two excellent ( and very different) concrete tee pads for each hole. Both have excellent Houck signs with detailed hole diagrams, lines to the basket, distances, par, etc. Innova DISCatcher baskets show up well and catch great. Obvious paths from hole to hole make navigation a breeze as you cruise along in your golf cart.

The provided scorecards include an excellent overall course map, and hole distances and pars for both tees at each hole.

There is a tremendous variation in hole lengths from 164' out to 930'. How is that for a range? The course includes everything from short and technical wooded holes to more open bombers True par 4 and 5 holes require actual planning and placement. Simply throwing as hard as you can doesn't work here.

There are eight Par 3, seven Par 4, and three Par 5 holes. Having a course with this many quality longer holes holes is special.

As with Lakeside, the playability of the course for an 850 rated player like myself with a 300' max drive stood out. I chose to play the red tees for my first time out, and thoroughly enjoyed all 18. They were good fits for me and I enjoyed the fact that birdies were possible. Even the red tees don't result in a short course, as you'll play 6545' from the reds and 9176' from the blues.

The course features lake and creek holes, and a variety of moderately to tightly wooded holes. Overall I felt that the course was more open than Lakeside, but just as varied. The variety in terms of hole distance, par, and amount of woods is well distributed throughout the course.

While the course lacks a signature island hole like Hole 7 on Lakeside, I felt like there was actually more water in play here. The finishing hole has a relatively tame red tee position, but the long tee is a real tester. After finishing my round from the reds I decided to test my mettle from the blue. After donating two discs to the course I decided to pack it up. Good to know to lay-up next time!

I played all four P2P courses in the area in a 24 hour period. I gave Creekside a 4.5 because I didn't like it "quite" as much as Lakeside. I look forward to returning and playing them in a different order. This could as easily be a 5.0 for me as the 4.5 I'm giving it here.

Cons:

Very tough for me to come up with cons. I found some of the holes a little more open than Lakeside, with holes like 4, 5 requiring mainly that you don't fade into the lake.

But that is picking nits. Overall this is a phenomenal course and complex.

Other Thoughts:

As a premier P2P course I didn't find the $20 day fee to be out of line at all. Even the additional $20 for the cart seemed like money well spent. I wouldn't try to play both courses in a day without a cart.

I appreciated that I had my wife along as a driver/spotter and they didn't feel the need to charge her any fee at all. Some places are a little weird about a non-paying companion, but there was no issue at Selah.
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2 3
Bflinn
Experience: 39.8 years 74 played 3 reviews
5.00 star(s)

Amazing experience 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Oct 18, 2017 Played the course:once

Pros:

It was a beautiful October day, about 75 deg, little to no wind. I got there about 8am, and Dave met me at the pro shop. Very friendly and helpful man. I started on Creekside and played the long tees on every hole. I am a predominant RHBH thrower, and while there were shots that a forehand would have worked nicely, I didn't run across any shots I couldn't throw a turnover just as well. All of the tee signs were there, and it flowed fairly well. Several holes I forgot to look at the "next tee" arrows on the sign, but didn't have trouble finding my way. There are a few shots over the water. Only hole 18 didn't seem to have a good safe shot to avoid throwing over the water for those of us that can't reliably throw 330ft. The short tee would have been my better option on that hole. Dave came out in his SUV toward the end of my round to see how I was doing and if I needed anything. It was a beautiful property with a very nice Inn to stay at, and cabins/camping also. It is definitely a disc golf destination if you are anywhere near NE Texas

Other Thoughts:

I opted not to rent a golf cart. If it's a hot day, or you tire easily, it's probably a good idea to get one. It's about a 7 mile hike to play both courses.
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1 12
Jmk5704
Experience: 10 years 58 played 32 reviews
5.00 star(s)

Cream of the crop 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 9, 2017 Played the course:once

Pros:

What a fun and challenging course, it really just challenges you in every way and just makes you push your game to the next level especially with all the times you throw over water. You can tell the course has been made by a professional because you need your hole bag

Cons:

It's really expensive compared to most which a free. It is not at all beginner friendly.
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10 13
Tom Z
Experience: 9 played 9 reviews
3.50 star(s)

Overrated 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 10, 2017 Played the course:once

Pros:

** Well maintained.
** Owner and caretaker are very nice.
** Lodging on site, but a bit pricy
** Golf carts. More of a novelty. If I ever play it again (which I probably won't) I would opt not to use the cart.
** 2 courses on property which makes a day of it rather going somewhere else to play another round.
** Pro shop, but not much of one.

Cons:

** Not much elevation change.
** Sometimes long distances from basket to next T
** Very little risk/reward that required decision making (see other thoughts)
** Signage could be better. It was adequate but not up to a 5 star rating.
** Not much variety. A lot of open holes with few or no obstacles (trees, etc.)
** Personally, I found the course itself mostly ordinary.

Other Thoughts:

** There is not much difference between Creekside and Lakeside. I wrote the same review for both.
** I've played about 75 courses in 14 states and would not rate this course in the top 10 of the 75 I've played.
** Risk/reward: If you are throwing across a lake and can throw that far then there is not much risk. If you can barely throw that far there is risk. If you can't throw that far it is pointless. There is not much decision making in that case. When putting toward a lake or stream that is 20 ft. past the basket, you have to decide how likely you are to make it from the distance you are putting. But what's the worst that can happen? You are putting for a birdie 2 and miss. Your shot rolls into the lake or stream. You take a penalty stroke and make an easy putt back for a bogie 4. So you could get a 2 (if you make it), a 3 if you miss and it doesn't go OB, or a 4. On the other hand if 20 ft. past the basket is a 60 ft. deep tree filled canyon, that missed putt could turn into a 6 or worse. Now the decision you make as to whether to go for it or lay up becomes very important.
** If you like a grip and rip course then this place may be for you. It offers some opportunities to shape shots around obstacles, but mostly it is just throw long.
** If, on the other hand, you like to walk up to the T-Box and analyze what type of shot is needed to get the lowest score (do you throw a hyzer, a forehand flick, a thumber, go straight at it, layup in the fairway for a high percentage approach shot, or any number of other options) then this course may not be for you.
** It is a good place to practice long drives without much regard to what direction the disc goes. But then so is a football field.
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13 0
armiller
Gold level trusted reviewer
Experience: 9.5 years 276 played 60 reviews
5.00 star(s)

Selah – setting the standard for decades to come 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 21, 2017 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

-not sure where to start... BREATHTAKING DISC GOLF from start to finish
-a beautiful setting for a course, with changing terrain that lends itself to 18 fun and unique holes
-at least 7 unique water holes, not including the creek shots
-awesome hole diversity, with some more open big tree fairways, some tighter woods shots, use of the creek, and lots of long and short water holes
-from long tees, 16-18 are definitely among the coolest water holes I've played; 16 is a big boy water carry that I didn't quite make, 17 isn't particularly long but is still no gimme, and 18 is a great peninsula location that just screams "go for it, I dare you!"
-Use of space: there's plenty of it, and one of the most impressive things to me about Selah's courses (and especially Creekside) was the fact that NOT all the space was used. Fairways are not crammed all over the place, and that allowed Mr. Houck to work his magic, choosing the best spots for baskets/tees/fairways. Of all 36 holes onsite, no two felt repetitive to me. That space is also why it's best to pay extra for a cart.

Favorites:
1-3, 5, 7, 9-10, 12, 14, 16-18

Cons:

-there aren't enough hours in the day?
-plan to lose discs unless you plan to accept some extra strokes to lay up (note: it's probably worth looking through the used bin at the clubhouse for some extra water discs or some other deals; I still regret not picking up a 175g 7/10 no-name champ Teebird or a 174g 9/10 BigZ Roach, each for $5)
-would be really exhausting without the cart, especially if hitting up both courses

Other Thoughts:

Selah is rightly viewed as a "Mecca" of disc golf. First of all, I was extremely impressed with how polished the whole property was. The two courses each had their own feel and were both every bit as cared for as a PGA tournament golf course. The "creekside" name was a bit misleading. 1-2 and 7-8 play through spacious terrain with mature trees. 3-5 wind around a pond, and 13 has another pond. Holes 6 and 14 are top-notch woods holes, and holes 9-10 are the real "creek" holes. 10 is one of the coolest par 5s I've ever played (and one of Creekside's signature holes) due to the final dogleg to a pseudo-peninsula made by the creek. Ultimately, 16-18 are the best disc golf grand finale I've ever encountered. So yes, there's a creek. But I was floored by the hole variety with mature tree fairways, pond shots, Houck's use of the creek on 10, some tighter woods holes, and then the breathtaking final water carries. For some reason, I didn't expect so many water shots on Creekside, but they were the main thing that grabbed me. We managed to finish our last round just before sunset, and both the water-lillied pond and final water holes were incredibly picturesque. (I was too busy enjoying it to waste time taking photos, but the photos on DGCR really don't do the course justice.)

One of the things I appreciate about John Houck's design here is that the short tees are quite reasonable for newer players. I've played a decent number of top level courses, but both Creekside and Lakeside are places I could bring family or newer players wanting to put their developing game to the test against a real opponent without being totally annihilated.

Notes on playing Selah:
-$20 might seem like a lot, but there's no question it's worth it.
-Dave was awesome. We initially reserved a tee time for a day later, but a tropical storm in the Gulf threatened to rain on our parade. We were able to play a day early and missed the rain, although we missed out on a few hours.
-Get a cart! Especially if playing with only two (or even three?), one cart helps save time getting around the property, and one player can easily manage the cart while the other makes their shots. I never thought I'd be one to enjoy a cart in disc golf, but Selah makes you want to maximize every minute of your day.
-Unless you're already close, it's best to stay in the area. Staying in or around Mt. Vernon for one night would make it easy to play the Trey Texas Ranch courses as well and the Selah duo.

Summary and Rating: It's really impossible for me to give either of Selah's courses less than a 5. Courses like this set a standard for premier disc golf courses of the future, and I can only hope that there will be more facilities of similar quality in decades to come. Thanks, Dave! Thanks, John! I'll be back.
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7 0
eegor
Bronze level trusted reviewer
Experience: 28.4 years 138 played 28 reviews
5.00 star(s)

My favorite course 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 27, 2017 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

Defined fairways in a "country club" style design. This is the closest thing the a "ball golf" designed course I've ever seen. Navigation isn't a issue due to the mowing (maintenance) by Dave (the owner) and his staff. Each shot requires thought and planning. No "get to it and throw" on this course. John Houck designed a masterpiece here. There's actually more water on this course than Lakeside (a con to many), but everything is fair and if you play within your game, you can score well here. Each shot is challenging in some way. Although it's mentally tough, it makes for a round to remember... for better or worse.

Cons:

If you don't have a complete game or a little off of your game, this course will punish you like no other. The rough is rougher and the water OB is closer than just about anywhere else. I don't feel this is a con, but a pro... but there are a lot of disc golfers that get upset at losing discs and strokes because of the way this course is designed. I personally like it, but if you don't have control of your game... you won't really like it here.

Other Thoughts:

GREAT setting and if you stay on the the ranch, GREAT hospitality. This is a disc golf destination for the aficionados of the game. Paired with Lakeside and the Trey Texas Ranch just 20 miles away, this is a disc golf getaway for every bucket list. For the very best in hospitality, stay on Selah Ranch. We stayed at the Corral House a few years back and it was great for 5 guys. Full kitchen with everything you'll need and very comfortable sleeping arrangements. If you want to save a few bucks, call Mom at Trey Texas Ranch and she'll set you up.

It's worth the trip. As you will see from all the reviews... this is the prevailing view.

My advise... save up and stay on Selah Ranch. Thank me later.
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10 8
david W
Silver level trusted reviewer
Experience: 17.4 years 493 played 28 reviews
4.00 star(s)

2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Updated: Played on:Mar 21, 2017 Played the course:once

Pros:

This course is on a fantastic piece of property and has a good mix of shots. The long pads are a beast of a course and have some great shots and plenty of challenge.

The grassy fairways and large mature trees throughout the course really make it feel like a 1 of a kind track.

Cons:

The tree in front of hole 1's long pad has got to go. It is dead center of where you need to throw your drive and completely ruins the tee shot.

Hole 10 is not a good hole. Lots of potential but is ruined with too may trees and no clear fairway. Cut a fairway and create a line that people can actually throw instead of playing poke and hope to the dogleg.

Hole 13 is not very good. Blind par 3 over water. Its basically a bailout short and right so your not in danger of going in the water. Not a great design.

This course desperately needs distance markers especially on some of the longer par 4's and 5's.

Other Thoughts:

I liked the course okay but feel that it is currently overrated. Im not saying the course is bad but I think the fact that it shares the same property with a really good course boosts peoples perception of this track. I have played several 3.5-4.5 star courses that blow Creekside out of the water and was underwhelmed with a course that gets so many 4.5-5 star reviews.
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Designer response by johnrhouck
David, thanks for your review. When I first read your Cons, I thought "What course was this guy playing? That tree on #1 can't possible have grown that much." But when I got to Selah for PDGA Amateur World Doubles, I found you were absolutely right. I had no idea. Here's the before photo: [URL=https://www.facebook.com/325508277469395/photos/a.368225236531032.85475.325508277469395/1448206721866206/?type=3&theater]https://www.facebook.com/3255...3&theater[/URL] Here's how it looks today:[URL=https://www.facebook.com/325508277469395/photos/a.1447833641903514.1073741839.325508277469395/1448184801868398/?type=3&theater]https://www.facebook.com/3255...3&theater[/URL] And this is about what it took, lookng back at the tee: [URL=https://www.facebook.com/325508277469395/photos/a.1447833641903514.1073741839.325508277469395/1448184811868397/?type=3&theater]https://www.facebook.com/3255...3&theater[/URL] We have made major changes to #10 and #13 as well, plus major improvements to Lakeside #10 and #15. And needed improvements on almost every hole. Both courses now look 100% better. Sorry they weren't in better shape when you were there. If you could see the courses now, I think you'd know why so many reviewers give Selah five stars.
17 0
edfaits
Gold level trusted reviewer
Experience: 14.1 years 92 played 43 reviews
5.00 star(s)

From the Rec Player Perspective 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Feb 5, 2016 Played the course:once

Pros:

My reviews for Creekside and Lakeside will have redundant content, I apologize but I want both reviews to be able to "stand alone". Many have reviewed these courses, the only unique perspective I have is that I'm not a very good disc golfer! I suspect most that make this pilgrimage are dedicated and talented players.
Selah Ranch has been my "Shangri-La" for several years. I'm an "older player" (60+) and never progressed beyond a middle of the pack recreational skill level. However, I am passionate about the sport. My concern was would Selah be a "rec friendly" great experience, or would it be too punishing for this old arm? I'm thrilled to say Selah was everything I had hoped it would be! The ranch is beautiful, the courses are a pure joy to play, and the unique hospitality of the ranch made for a uniquely wonderful disc golf adventure.

-The gasoline powered carts made it possible to get in a full round on both Creek Side and Lake Side in a single afternoon. I'm usually pretty sore and worn out these days when I play 36 holes in a day, I call those my "4 ADVIL" tournaments. With the carts I had no problem playing 36.
-Holes challenge both throwing skills and decision making. Risk/Reward options available on nearly every hole. Often multiple lines to the hole, overall favors no particular style. I play mostly RHFH, my son is almost exclusively RHBH, I don't think either of us had an advantage.
-Creekside is as much fun and challenge for a Rec Player from the Red Tees as I image it is for an Advanced Player from the White Tees. Although I wouldn't call Creek Side "Beginner Friendly", it's certain manageable by anyone with basic disc golfing skills. My feeling is it's a little easier the Lake Side for a Rec Level player. Every hole a par was likely if I didn't do anything too dumb, make a horrible throw, or clank a short putt. I had several birdie chances, though it took both good and smart throws. Mess up, and bogey or worse was likely, though a few lousy drives left me with at least a shot at a redemption par.
-Keep it out of the water and there's not too much chance of losing a disc. Keeping it out of the water may be more easily said than done, especially on the great closing hole #18! On the other 17 holes, unless the wind comes up, the water won't come in to play unless you make one of those Risk / Reward decisions that brings the water in to play. Hole #13 is a classic example. Go straight at the hole just 205' away on your tee shot you have a pretty easy birdie chance, but miss 20' short or to the left and you're in the creek. Play it safe to the right and you'll have a pretty easy par. A birdie is in a rec player's reach, but you've got to control your nerves and your hyzer. Hole #16 is a short par 5 from the Red, but Hole #16 is a short par 5 from the Red, but you're going to have to flirt with the water on both your drive and your approach to get your chance at an eagle.
-Legitimate Par 4's and Par 5's. With these holes there are even more shot decisions to make, more options unfold as the hole plays out.
-Modern, quality, well maintained Innova Discatcher Pro baskets. Hardly worth mentioning here, it's fair to assume that EVERYTHING at Selah is first class.
-Fair greens, no gimmicky obstructions within the circle. Some placements close enough to water hazards to be a test of nerve but nothing unfair, at least when the wind isn't howling.
-Solid cement tee pads, adequate size though not huge. Clean, and well landscaped so there is no odd drop-offs that would impact run-up or follow-through.
-A decent Pro Shop, showers, and real bathrooms on site. Amenities approaching a quality ball-and-stick golf course.
-Hole twelve was guarded by a bunch of hay bales. I'm not sure if that's a permanent feature, but it's not something I've seen up in the northeast.
- I understand that not every disc golfer will be willing/able to spend the money for greens fees, carts, and lodging at Selah Ranch, but for me the costs were very reasonable for experience. To compare this to ball golf, I received "Pebble Beach" quality for less than the cost of greens fees and a cart at my local municipal course.
-A cold winter day at Selah Ranch is warmer than what I'll see in New England until April

Cons:

As I stated, this is my Shangri-La, can there really be any cons? If I really have to come up with something:

- It's a huge East Texas Ranch... the wind can howl, thunderstorms can boil up at a moment's notice, summer heat and humidity can melt your favorite plastic, drenching rains can flood the creeks and gullies...Snakes, Scorpions, and other creepy-crawlies hide in the brush, bulls might charge, lightning, tornadoes, meteors threaten, oil wells could blow out, and there is a scary disclaimer to sign, though on the February day I played I didn't see anything more menacing the buzzard circling as a clanked my birdie putt attempt on #4. I'm not sure Selah is more dangerous than my local New England courses plagued with Lyme disease-carrying deer ticks.
-The Ranch is pretty remote, and though somehow mobile phone service was great everywhere on the course. Options for gasoline, food, beer are limited in Talco, basically just a gas station. Mt. Vernon is a few miles to the south and has much better food options, but don't assume anything will be open after your round.
-Without a cart, it's a long walk just to get to the first tee. It's quite a hike to play Creekside, with no place to sit and no drinking water available on the course. Rent the cart, it's well worth it, especially in the warmer months, which I understand can be every month but January and February.
-If you are walking, navigation takes some effort since tees are not always visible from the last basket. With a cart, it's not an issue, you'll find the tee pretty quickly.

Other Thoughts:

I dragged my family 400 miles out the way so I could tick this place off my bucket list. I'm grateful they indulged me. I only had a single afternoon before we turned the car northward on our way back to Chicago, then home New England. I had time to play both courses, but not enough time to soak up all that the ranch has to offer. With Trey Ranch "just down the road", I'm sure I could have spent several blissful days here. I hope to return soon for a longer stay.

On the mid-week February day I played the course it was pretty deserted. I realize this place is remote, but I'd really love to see more vibrancy to this place. It truly deserves the support of the disc golf community.

So are the Selah Ranch courses the best I've ever played? I live less than an hour from Maple Hill, and I've been lucky enough to play Nantucket, some great courses in Vermont and the coast of Maine, and even got to play the nearly completed Frost Valley course in New York. Is the Beatles 'Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band' a better album than the Stones 'Exile on Main St'? Is Beethoven's Ninth better than Mozart's Jupiter Symphony? That's the great thing, we get to enjoy it all and take joy that they all exist.
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13 0
splatbaseball51
Gold level trusted reviewer
Experience: 15.6 years 182 played 59 reviews
4.50 star(s)

Overshadowed by LS but otherwise awesome! 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Sep 23, 2015 Played the course:once

Pros:

CS is the best "ranch" or "cow field" type course I've ever played. There isn't actually any cow's in the field, but it reminded me of all the private pasture courses on the east coast, more so than LS, which felt more like a country club with woods. There aren't cow patties everywhere like there are back home, there are poured concrete tee pads (something VA still hasn't fully caught on to yet...) and the rough has been tamed very well for this privately maintained land.

CS is still a gorgeous landscape, but feels much very different from LS. (which is a good thing, honestly) Even though these courses are on the same property and only separated by a few hundred yards, they each have their own very distinct character. CS feels the most "ranchy" of the two and it wears that dress like the finest of prom dates.

Most of the holes on CS were open fields where several trees shaped the shot(s), but off the tees and approaches. CS and LS both put a premium on shot placement. If you want the birdies, you'll need to drop your ego and put the disc in a specific spot. (don't worry, big arms, you'll still have an advantage on many holes)

I'll list the water as a pro here, but I also have it as a con for a different reason. I'll list it as a pro for the challenge it provided. Complicated even further by the wind, CS was by far the most nervous I've been playing DG. That was fun, I guess, but I may or may not be a masochist.

With the exception of truly wooded holes, you'll utilize most other shots in your bag. There are very obvious lines you should take, unlike LS which allows you to be more creative if you like. This course does still favor the big arms, way more than LS does.

To borrow from my LS review, The amenities were more than ample, but not perfect (as you can see in my cons). The tee pads were plenty big enough, two per hole with very nice signs at each tee. There's also a pro shop on site, you'll get scorecards for each course, have a place to buy plastic and also rent a golf cart! The revolution has begun, ladies and gentlemen! These types of amenities is what it will take to push our game to the next level.


Cons:

CS doesn't have the most well-rounded design. By that I mean it doesn't have many, if any, truly wooded holes. Most of the "wooded" holes are simply shot shaping with a few trees. (there's nothing wrong with those shots, by the way, but they won't pass as wooded holes) To be in the upper echelon of courses, It's my personal opinion the course should be well rounded between open/semi-open/wooded. How else would you challenge every aspect of a players game?

The use of water on CS felt a little more "forced" than on LS. I don't really know how to explain that other than saying some holes were unnecessarily close to the water. I'm sure many will disagree, it simply seemed like they tried too hard to make more water holes at the expense of designing a better shot.

There were several holes that seemed like "gimmie" birdies. Normally that's not a bad thing, you should just get the birdie most of the time. I don't think a course of this caliber should have any "gimmie's". I sometimes call these "filler" holes. There were a couple of these on CS. No they weren't 300ft shots in an open field, but they probably get birdied at a 75% rate. Again, I'm sure there will be plenty of disagreement on this, it just seemed like some shots could've been brainstormed on for longer.

Courses this nice should have benches on every tee. It wasn't too bad since I had a cart, but with as long and as nice as these courses are, they should have benches on every tee.

Other Thoughts:

I promised Dave I'd review these courses on their own merits. Many people will compare the two and award the lesser with a half point lower. I award CS with a half-point lower regardless, but please don't think that means it's a bad course. Come on, now, it's still a 4.5. This course is fantastic, just not quite what LS is (but is any course?!?)

I recommend playing CS first and letting LS be the icing on the cake. I might have been let down to have played them in reverse order.

My favorite hole was #3. I shot a 63 (-4) from blues.
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6 1
Tommy2am
Experience: 11.3 years 33 played 16 reviews
5.00 star(s)

The best course in the world 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Aug 15, 2015 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

This course has every element of a great course. Best course designer in the world. Check. Absolutely gorgeous surroundings. Check. The best teepads, signage, and baskets money can buy. Check. Challenging holes that require the use of every disc golf shot. Check. Obstacles including water, trees, bushes, blind spot throws, elevation changes, rocks, footing holds, islands, alternate teeboxes, holes ranging from short to verrrryyy long, wind factors, etc. Check. Great playability and flow. Check. Nature galore. Check. It is an outstanding travel destination, with a bed and breakfast, great fishing, a great pro shop, homemade food, and plenty of activities to do.

Cons:

You would have to really be nitpicking here to come up with cons. I guess I could say the location since its not in my backyard. It is about 90 minutes east of Dallas, TX (where I live), so there isn't a ton of night life or things to do in general outside of the ranch itself, of course. To be fair though, this is really a place to get away...so this is really scraping the bottom of the barrel for a con. The price can add up since it is $20 per person per day for unlimited greens access. The golf carts are $40 per day, and with two huge, awesome courses, you really HAVE to have a golf cart. The pro shop is quite nice, and its easy to drop a lot of money on extras too. There is a lot of water, so you will likely lose discs. I have lost two discs playing thousands of rounds...I lost 3 discs my first time playing selah.

Other Thoughts:

This is quite simply an outstanding championship course that will stand up to any course in the world. This is ranked #1 in the world and its sister course (selah ranch lakeside) is ranked #5 in the world. If you live within a few hours, like to travel and play, or are planning a trip to Texas...this is a MUST PLAY course.

P.S. The fishing here is incredible as well. I had some great catches, and apparently that is common here!
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9 0
bjreagh
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 28.2 years 353 played 321 reviews
5.00 star(s)

Selah Ranch is now my #1 DG destination! 2+ years

Reviewed: Played on:Jun 23, 2015 Played the course:2-4 times

Pros:

THE COURSE- The short version review: is I absolutely enjoyed every single shot on every hole. This is a superbly designed course set on fantastic land coupled with another great course on-site. I will definitely make plans to come back here again, hopefully soon.

Now the details: My favorite thing about the course and design was the mental challenges offered here- done in two ways. 1st, the decisions you have to make for each shot as there are often multiple options/routes and lots of risk/reward vs playing safer decisions are to made. Though not heavily wooded on most holes the baskets are strategically placed and there always seemed to be a tree branch to consider or water lingering near. I spent more time weighing my options and deciding on the shot here than I normally would at most courses where it is usually a quick decision. And 2nd, was the par 4's and 5's, which is a not-so-common style in the par-3-dominated world of DG. I truly enjoy thinking ahead and trying to set up the next shot or two (like found at holes at Idlewild, Flyboy, and the IDGC courses) rather than always just aiming for the basket off the tee and just trying to get close. On the tee you have to think "where do I want to be exactly in order to do what I want to do on my next shot." Here many times length is not nearly as important as precision. And getting a hard-earned 4 or 5 and feeling good about it is not typical of most courses.

I thought the diversity in hole length was fantastic (distances in the 100's, 200's, 300's, 400's, 500's & 600's just from the am tees). Several par 4's and 5's but plenty of deuce chances mixed in. No two holes were anywhere close to being the same. The holes are well-spaced out so each is its own private experience. Varying degrees of tree density, some minor elevation thrown in, and lots of water hazards in the form of a creek and several ponds/small lakes. (The water can usually be avoided with a conservative shot, but if you want to shoot low you have to brave up and face the possibility of a water penalty.) The longer holes here are not long just for the sake of being long (unlike so many "par >3s" I have seen elsewhere, or those bragging about having a 1000' hole just because), but here they have purpose and contain strategic design for each segment of the hole. Seems like there is always a tree or a branch just perfectly placed forcing you really focus on your line. When I played (mid-summer), the fairways on the more open holes were lined with taller grass as other reviewers have noted, but I found they were plenty wide to land in, even if it means throwing a more controlled fairway driver.

The colorful tee signs (2 per hole, 1 at each tee) can't be any better with the stylish design and wealth of information. The visible Discatchers are easy to spot and in great condition. And there are two sets of nice concrete tees on every single hole! Detailed color scorecards were provided. This place is complete and was obviously done right with no corners cut and lots of thought and care put into it. I really appreciated the consideration designing 2 sets of tees providing for variety (since there is only 1 basket location per hole) and making this course playable and enjoyable by a wider variety of skill levels.

Navigation was a breeze with the map and golf cart and next tee arrows. If the basket was not visible from the tee, it was clear as to where you should throw without too much scouting. The cart was easily able to maneuver over the terrain on every hole.

Also, the clubhouse area is close to this course and is great- lots of discs (new and used) for sale, lots of carts, restrooms, even showers, and a large meeting/dining hall for tournaments. Thanks to worker Jack, who was glad to meet us for all our cart and disc needs.


THE COMPLEX- Let me begin by saying that Selah and the DG here is by far the gold standard in a vacation DG facility. The courses are phenomenal and the whole package here is outstanding- DG, lodging, hospitality, beauty, peaceful isolation. (Selah has accomplished what I had hoped Highbridge would have been.) The courses alone are just as good as, if not better than Idlewild, Flip, IDGC, and Flyboy when it comes to shot making, strategy, amenities, and visual appeal. I have played many top courses and have often been slightly disappointed as the hype inflated my expectations, but not at Selah- it easily exceeded my lofty expectations!

I played many courses to and from Selah that were all affected by the recent uncharacteristic great flooding of 2015. Though all were playable, all the rest of the courses still showed the after effects of the high water. That is, except Selah, which had also been flooded, but showed little to no signs of it just a few weeks later- a tribute to the great maintenance and care as the staff evidently stays on top of things here. (I am sure it helps that the area is more than just a DG course being a B&B and farm also, but whatever it takes.)

I stayed in the corral house, which is perfect for a large group of disc golfers, an excellent facility isolated from the rest of the buildings, with all the luxuries you can expect (kitchen, grill, fire pit, lots of beds, tv, wifi, pool table, golf cart, and a great shower!)

Cons:

THE COURSE- The only major thing I can think of is many of the short par 3's from the reds can be played with a simple midrange straight or hyzer shot (RHBH) of about the same distance. Sure the water comes in play on most, but it seemed I was able to use the same shot quite often for these. So even though they don't look the same, I was able to play them all just about the same. (The solution for me is to play these holes from the blue tees next time I suppose.)

This is probably not the norm as the area had just recovered from insane flooding, but on hole #10, the water from some of the lakes overflows in this area on its way to the creek. The first half the hole was very swampy with lots of standing water (understandable and amazing that this was the only major issue considering the epic rains the area had endured this year.) Maybe a drainage ditch could be cut to contain the overflow a bit when it did rain a lot?


THE COMPLEX- You do have to consider the price of everything. Compared to most courses, including pay to plays, this one is definitely in its own league. $15-20 to play all day, $20/person to split a cart, and the lodging prices are at the high end of all the B&B/inns/cabins I have stayed in. That being said, playing here should be considered a vacation destination, not your everyday park course. If you can find it in your budget to come here, you will not be disappointed with the quality of what they offer, and is a great use of your vacation dollar.

I hope they would consider building a couple more smaller disc golfer cabins in the future. The corral house is really nice, though large and is best suited for ~8 people, where a cabin or two built for 4 people max at a lower price would be nice.

Practice area? I wished the corral house had a practice basket. That would be a great addition.

Other Thoughts:

THE COURSE- It is hard to compare DG and [ball] golf, and I am not saying you should. But coming from one who converted to DG, Creekside is the closest thing in DG I have played that matches the feel of playing on a nice golf course: varying pars, the carts, short grassy fairways, water hazards, all the amenities, the style of play... almost hard to verbalize, as it is more a feel, but Creekside had a great vibe to it.

I really could go on and on about how much I loved this course (maybe because I played this one first, or it fits my game pretty well, but I personally liked it slightly better than the also awesome Lakeside course.) CS is more isolated than LS and you will likely not run into anyone else. (Unlike LS which plays near the main house and the big lake and you may often encounter guests fishing or sight-seeing in golf carts.) I see no reason to give CS anything less than a 5.0 rating. The total package is just about as perfect as anything I could dream up.

Note- I played the course from the shorter tees this time, though I did note where the Pro tees were for each hole (talk about challenge!). The reds fit my skill level perfectly as a decent intermediate non-pro. The blues would definitely challenge just about anyone. I also played using the golf cart (highly recommended) as the holes are spread out, and it saves your legs from walking, your back from carrying your bag and water, and makes for faster play so you can play more rounds.


THE COMPLEX- The two courses complement each other very well, I really consider Selah just to be a 36-hole mega-course. In general:
Creekside- shorter water holes, longer more open and moderately technical holes
Lakeside- longer water holes, medium and short tight technical holes
If you play both courses you will play an amazing variety of holes with no two holes alike.

If you are a serious disc golfer, you will want to plan a DG vacation here. I recommend staying on site to allow more time to play and time to relax. And I suggest allowing at least 2-3 days to play as you will want to play here over and over again.

I am also an avid bass fisherman, and the fishing here is really good. There are lots of places to fish, it was a nice change of pace between DG, and was an unexpected bonus. Selah Ranch is now my most favorite place on Earth.

I can't wait to come back!
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13 0
c_a_miller
Diamond level trusted reviewer
Experience: 12.5 years 299 played 209 reviews
4.50 star(s)

The Longer, but Lesser Brother 2+ years drive by

Reviewed: Played on:Feb 7, 2015 Played the course:once

Pros:

Note: We played this course after we had played Lakeside on a weekend in February. We played from the longer tees without carts.

Creekside gives you the opportunity to air it out a little more than at Lakeside. You can air it out without having to worry about losing it in water as there is less water.

Even with less water, the long holes still demand good placements to score well. I especially enjoyed Hole 3. It actually had water and you had to lay up and then throw over the water to a guarded basket.

I have never been a big fan of making holes long for the sake of making them long, but Hole 8 was one of the holes that I did not mind. It is the only 1000'+ hole in the area. You need to finish right off your drive to avoid being in the bushes and then a few more good shots down a huge alley to get to the basket.

I felt that Creekside had more par 3s that appeals to people who like shorter holes. This course had a much better variety in terms on <300' holes and longer 550'+ holes. This course is longer footage wise, but you can expect to score better here than at Lakeside, because of the larger number of shorter holes.

Cons:

In my opinion, there are too many average holes to make this course a 5. Holes 4, 5 and 17 are just short shots over a little bit of water. Even the longer holes felt a little repetitive. For some reason, Creekside's holes just did not stick well in my mind like Lakeside, and I think that is important to make a great course.

Houck likes peninsulas, and I like peninsulas. However, I did not like Hole 18. At all. I felt that the peninsula was too narrow and hard to hit from 320' out. According to the course map, the peninsula directly in front of the pad about 100' is OB, which makes there no good lay up zone.

Other Thoughts:

My rank for the four big courses in the are are:

1. Selah Ranch - Lakeside
2.Texas Trey Ranch - Trey Deuce
3. Texas Trey Ranch - Texas Twist
4. Selah Ranch - Creekside

All four are phenomenal courses and all four are worth the time and money to spend an entire weekend up here.

Do not get me wrong, I enjoyed Creekside 100 percent; it is definitely in my top 10 course, but I think its ratings are overrated because it is next to the best course in the world. Still, this is a great course and it has a lot of fantastic holes. I would make the drive back to play both of these phenomenal courses.
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Designer response by johnrhouck
Cody, so glad you enjoyed Creekside so much. Just one note on #18, which still confuses people for some reason. Yes, the little penninsula right in front of you is OB, but the short tee, and the entire area left of the water is in-bounds. You can lay up there and have just 200' to the green.
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