Craig Wood Golf & Country Club

Craig Wood Golf & Country Club offers a distinct blend of Adirondack charm and competitive golf, set just outside the iconic ski town of Lake Placid, New York. This 18-hole, private course unfolds through a rugged landscape that challenges golfers with its uneven terrain and shifting elevations. The layout moves from comparatively open fairways on the front nine to tighter, more wooded holes on the back nine, rewarding precision as the round progresses. The land’s natural topography shapes every shot, demanding strategic play especially around the course’s notably undulating greens.

The course plays to a par 72 and stretches approximately 6,600 yards, providing a firm test that still welcomes golfers across skill levels. While the rough proves notably thick and unforgiving, the fairways are well maintained, giving players a fair target off the tee. Greens roll true but present considerable subtleties and breaks that require keen attention, especially for downhill chips and putts. The undulated putting surfaces are a defining challenge here and serve as a critical skill filter.

Offering a distinctly Adirondack atmosphere, the club’s rustic feel is enhanced by limited smooth cart paths and bumpy terrain that invite walkers to engage fully with the course’s natural character. Carts are available and in good condition for those preferring to conserve energy. The clubhouse provides a warm, welcoming environment with a well-stocked pro shop and a restaurant praised for its hearty fare, ideal for regrouping after a round.

Visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the affordable price point relative to other courses in the Lake Placid area. Local knowledge benefits newcomers as the course’s subtle complexities aren’t always apparent on a first visit. Pace of play can sometimes slow due to popularity, so an early tee time is recommended to enjoy the round at a comfortable rhythm.

For players seeking a scenic, thoughtfully maintained course with a solid mix of challenge and enjoyment, Craig Wood Golf & Country Club delivers an experience that honors its Adirondack setting while providing practical playability for a wide range of golfers.