There are three nines - Red, White and Blue - and each offers something different. The Red is short, wide open and plays to a par 32; this would be a good course for golfers new to the game or possibly as a warm-up before playing the other nines. The White and Blue are more challenging and are typically paired for 18-hole rounds. The Blue is very tight with dense woods lining the fairways. Just how tight becomes painfully evident with the very first hole. On paper, a 356 yard par 4 doesn't sound difficult, but standing on the tee gives you a different perspective. The hole bends slightly to the left at about 140 yards and, unless you can shape the ball from right to left, your options are limited. The best play might be a mid-iron as close to the trees on the left as possible - but watch out for the hidden water hazard. That leaves a 200 yard approach to an elevated green guarded by trees on the left. A nasty starting hole to be sure, but that's just the beginning. Holes 6 and 8 are beautiful but challenging dogleg left par 4s with scenic vistas from elevated tees. The finishing hole is a 102 yard par 3 to an island green. The course manager indicated that over 2000 balls were recently removed from the water surrounding this hole.

The pro shop in the clubhouse is functional if somewhat small. The clubhouse itself looked a bit dated but felt comfortable and would be a good place to grab a bite to eat and relax after a round of golf. Practice opportunities are limited to a putting green. Plan to take a power cart, especially for the Blue course - cart rental prices are reasonable and walking would be a daunting task.

Woodland Ridge provides a layout that can accommodate golfers of all skill levels in a tranquil north woods setting. Your next visit to NE Wisconsin should include golfing at Woodland Ridge - you won't be disappointed.

Latest Update: 12/29/2010