8.52 CONDITIONS out of 10
Upkeep
Green & Clean
Above & Beyond
7.94 HOSPITALITY out of 10
Guest Services
Amenities
Experience
8.01 PLAYABILITY out of 10
Design
Difficulty
Carts & Cards
8.05 FACILITIES out of 10
Tee Times
Teach & Learn
Accessibility
7.53 VALUE out of 10
Actual Costs
Fun Factor
Value
About forty-five minutes from Minneapolis or St. Cloud and located amongst the hills and farms is a surprise called Albion Ridges in Annandale, Minnesota. The 27-hole golf course has something for all abilities. Granite plays 2,798 yards from the whites while Rock and Boulder play 2,910 and 2,727 respectively.
First glance at the Granite nine appears pretty straight forward, but you soon realize shot placement will be rewarded. Even though there is ample room off most tee boxes you don’t want to find yourself in the rough too often or hacker status will be secure. We really enjoyed the par 3 #3 and par 4 #9 holes. Both are nicely laid out and a challenge at any level. #7 was another favorite on the Granite 9 luckily the wind was not a problem the sunny fall day we played. Our second 9 was Boulder. First hole is a dog leg left around Fred’s silo. From the looks of the side of the silo more than few errant hacker shots have found it tough to cut the corner. There are aiming boulders on each hole and we suggest using them. There are several opportunities to cut distance off on this nine whether over water or shortening corners, but the prudent play may be straight forward as the hole lies. Boulder is different and a very fun 9 that has great variety. Weekend green fees at Albion Ridges are $32 plus cart. Their website has great information ranging from directions to the interesting history of the course. The scorecard page has pictures of each hole that gives you an idea of what it is really like. Tee times are available by phone or online. The clubhouse is large and has plenty of room for larger groups before and after rounds. However, it is lightly merchandised and offers only minimal choices for refreshments. The staff was very accommodating and eager to help in anyway they could. Power carts are available and located conveniently right outside. Driving range and putting green are available to get you ready for your round.
Latest Update: 1/8/2011