The Definitive Guide to Golfing in Des Moines, Iowa

Welcome to the Heartland of American Golf!

Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just looking for a friendly round, Des Moines, Iowa, offers a diverse and enjoyable golfing experience. This guide, compiled with insider knowledge from local pros and enthusiasts, provides everything you need to plan your next visit or enhance your local game. Consider this your go-to resource – bookmark it, share it, and enjoy the course!

Course Rankings & Reviews

This section details the top courses in the Des Moines area, categorized for different budgets and skill levels. Ratings are based on a combination of course rankings (Golfweek, Golf Digest), local player feedback, and course features.

Top 7 Public Courses:

1. Blackhawk Golf Course (West Des Moines):
2. Signature Hole: Hole #16, a challenging par-3 with a water hazard guarding the green.
3. Notable Features: Well-maintained fairways, undulating greens, and mature trees. Offers a classic, traditional layout.
4. Unique Factor: Known for its consistent playability and excellent value. A favorite among locals for its challenging yet fair design.
5. Slope/Rating: 131/70.5

6. Price: $35-$50 (depending on time of day)

7. Prairie Preserve Golf Course (West Des Moines):

8. Signature Hole: Hole #4, a picturesque par-5 with a dramatic carry over a ravine.
9. Notable Features: Links-style design with rolling hills, fescue grasses, and strategically placed bunkers.
10. Unique Factor: Offers a more challenging and visually appealing layout than many public courses in the area.
11. Slope/Rating: 138/72

12. Price: $40-$60

13. Indian Trails Golf Course (Des Moines):

14. Signature Hole: Hole #12, a demanding par-4 with a narrow fairway and a heavily guarded green.
15. Notable Features: A classic muni with a challenging layout, mature trees, and a historic clubhouse.
16. Unique Factor: A long-standing Des Moines institution with a loyal following. Offers a traditional golfing experience.
17. Slope/Rating: 128/68.5

18. Price: $25-$40

19. Saylorville Lake Golf Course (Altoona):

20. Signature Hole: Hole #18, a scenic par-4 with views of the lake.
21. Notable Features: Offers stunning views of Saylorville Lake, with a layout that incorporates the natural terrain.
22. Unique Factor: A beautiful course with a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely round.
23. Slope/Rating: 132/71

24. Price: $30-$50

25. Oakwood Golf Course (West Des Moines):

26. Signature Hole: Hole #10, a risk-reward par-3 with a challenging approach shot.
27. Notable Features: A well-groomed course with a mix of open and wooded holes.
28. Unique Factor: Known for its friendly atmosphere and consistent conditions.
29. Slope/Rating: 125/66

30. Price: $30-$45

31. Morton Marsh Golf Course (Des Moines):

32. Signature Hole: Hole #15, a par-5 that requires a strategic tee shot to avoid water.
33. Notable Features: A challenging course with a variety of hole lengths and layouts.
34. Unique Factor: Offers a good value for the price and a solid test of golf.
35. Slope/Rating: 135/72.5

36. Price: $25-$40

37. Desert Brook Golf Course (West Des Moines):

38. Signature Hole: Hole #7, a demanding par-4 with a dogleg left and a water hazard.
39. Notable Features: A well-maintained course with a challenging layout and strategic bunkering.
40. Unique Factor: Offers a good mix of short and long holes, providing a varied golfing experience.
41. Slope/Rating: 130/68
42. Price: $35-$50

Hidden Gems:

1. Grand View Golf Course (Des Moines): A historic course with a charming, slightly quirky layout. Offers excellent value and a unique character. Perfect for a casual round.
2. Clear Creek Golf Course (Des Moines): A shorter, executive-style course ideal for beginners or those looking for a quick round. Very affordable.

Premium Public Options:

1. Harvest Golf Course (West Des Moines): A newer, meticulously designed course with excellent conditioning and challenging layout. Expect a higher price point but a premium experience.
2. The Trails Golf Course (West Des Moines): Known for its well-maintained greens and strategic bunkering. A popular choice for serious golfers.

Budget-Friendly Champions: (Under $50)

• Indian Trails Golf Course: Consistently offers some of the lowest green fees in the metro area.
• Morton Marsh Golf Course: A solid value with a challenging layout that won't break the bank.
• Clear Creek Golf Course: The most affordable option for a quick and casual round.

Practical Golfer Information

Difficulty Breakdown:

• Beginner-Friendly (Slope/Rating 110-125): Indian Trails Golf Course, Clear Creek Golf Course, Oakwood Golf Course. These courses generally have wider fairways and fewer hazards.
• Championship-Level (Slope/Rating 130+): Prairie Preserve Golf Course, Harvest Golf Course, Blackhawk Golf Course, Saylorville Lake Golf Course. These courses feature tighter fairways, more strategically placed hazards, and undulating greens.

Seasonal Strategy:

• Spring (March-May): Course openings vary. Expect some early-season course closures due to weather. Aeration is common. Conditions can be unpredictable – rain and sunshine are frequent.
• Summer (June-August): Peak season. Prime tee times are booked well in advance. Heat management is crucial – consider twilight rounds.
• Fall (September-October): The most popular playing season. Excellent weather, beautiful foliage, and often lower green fees.
• Winter (November-February): Limited opportunities for outdoor play. Indoor golf facilities (e.g., Topgolf) and driving ranges are available.

Tee Time Tactics:

• Best Booking Platforms: Course websites, GolfNow, and individual course phone numbers.
• Advance Reservation Requirements: Highly recommended, especially during peak season (summer and fall).
• Walk-on Possibilities: Generally available at Indian Trails and Morton Marsh, but not guaranteed. Check with the course directly.

Local Playing Conditions:

• Typical Weather Patterns: Four distinct seasons. Hot and humid summers, cold winters with occasional snow.
• Wind Considerations: Wind can be a factor, especially on courses near Saylorville Lake.
• Course Maintenance Schedules: Courses typically close for aeration in the spring and fall. Check individual course websites for specific schedules.

Insider Knowledge

Pro Shop Insights:

• Best Places for Equipment: Golf Galaxy (West Des Moines), Dick's Sporting Goods (multiple locations).
• Lessons & Club Fitting: Several qualified instructors are available. Check with the pro shops at Blackhawk, Prairie Preserve, and Harvest for lesson schedules.
• Club Fitting: Golf Galaxy offers comprehensive club fitting services.

19th Hole Recommendations:

• Blackhawk Golf Course: The clubhouse offers a full menu with great views of the course.
• Prairie Preserve Golf Course: The 19th Hole offers a casual atmosphere and a variety of drinks and snacks.
• Indian Trails Golf Course: A classic clubhouse with a friendly atmosphere and a full menu.
• Saylorville Lake Golf Course: The clubhouse has a restaurant with lake views.

Local Golf Culture:

• Etiquette Expectations: Standard golf etiquette applies – be mindful of pace of play, repair divots, and rake bunkers.
• Pace of Play Norms: Aim for a pace of play of around 3 hours for a foursome.
• Community Tournaments: Numerous amateur and pro tournaments are held throughout the year. Check the Iowa Golf Association website for a schedule.

Transportation & Logistics:

• Parking Situations: Ample parking is available at all public courses.
• Public Transit Access: Limited public transit access to most courses. Car is generally required.
• Multi-Course Day Planning: Plan your route in advance, considering travel time between courses.

Seasonal Deep Dive

Spring Golf:

• Course Reopening Schedules: Typically, courses begin opening in mid-March to early April, weather permitting.
• Aeration Timing: Aeration often occurs in late spring (April-May).
• Early Season Conditions: Fairways may be firm and greens may be slow.

Summer Strategy:

• Heat Management: Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and consider playing during the cooler morning or evening hours.
• Prime Tee Times: Weekday mornings are typically less crowded.
• Twilight Golf Opportunities: Many courses offer twilight rates during the summer months.

Fall Excellence:

• Peak Playing Season Details: Excellent weather and beautiful foliage make fall the most popular time to play.
• Foliage Golf: Enjoy the stunning fall colors while you play.
• Weather Transitions: Be prepared for cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

Winter Options:

• Year-Round Facilities: Topgolf offers a year-round indoor golf experience.
• Indoor Alternatives: Driving ranges with covered bays are available.
• Off-Season Practice: Utilize driving ranges and indoor facilities to maintain your game.

Regional Context

Architectural Styles:

• Dominant Course Designers: Many courses in the Des Moines area were designed by local architects or have been renovated by renowned designers like Pete Dye (Prairie Preserve).
• Local Influences: Courses often incorporate the natural rolling hills and wooded areas of the Iowa landscape.

Geographical Advantages:

• Terrain: The rolling hills and varied terrain provide a challenging and visually appealing golfing experience.
• Climate: Four distinct seasons offer a diverse range of playing conditions.
• Landscape: The presence of Saylorville Lake adds scenic beauty to several courses.

Tournament History:

• Notable Events: The Iowa Open is a prominent amateur tournament held annually in the Des Moines area.
• Professional Tournaments: While not a major PGA Tour stop, the area has hosted various professional tournaments over the years.
• Championship Venues: Blackhawk Golf Course has hosted several amateur and regional championships.

Golf Community:

• Local Golf Associations: Iowa Golf Association (IGA) is the governing body for amateur golf in the state.
• Leagues: Numerous amateur golf leagues cater to different skill levels and interests.
• Networking Opportunities: Join a local golf club or participate in community tournaments to connect with other golfers.

Special Features & Resources

Golfer Profiles:

• Beginner: Indian Trails, Morton Marsh, Clear Creek.
• Intermediate: Blackhawk, Prairie Preserve, Oakwood.
• Advanced: Harvest, Saylorville Lake, The Trails.

Seasonal Pricing Guide (General Estimates):

• Spring/Fall: $30-$50
• Summer: $35-$60
• Winter (Indoor): $20-$40 (Topgolf)

Weather Contingencies:

• Indoor Alternatives: Topgolf, driving ranges with covered bays, indoor golf simulators.
• Rainy Day Alternatives: Local museums, shopping centers, restaurants.

Local Partnerships:

• Course Packages: Check individual course websites for stay-and-play deals with local hotels.
• Group Discounts: Many courses offer discounts for groups of 12 or more.
• Affiliate Programs: Consider joining affiliate programs for golf equipment retailers (e.g., Golf Galaxy, Callaway) to earn rewards on your purchases.

Accessibility Notes:

• Blackhawk Golf Course: Offers accessible tees and facilities.
• Prairie Preserve Golf Course: Provides accessible tees and facilities.
• Indian Trails Golf Course: Offers accessible tees and facilities.

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**We hope this guide helps you enjoy the best that Des Moines, Iowa, has to offer for golfers of all levels!