Blue Top Ridge Golf Course in Riverside, Iowa, offers a challenging yet accessible 18-hole layout featuring fast, contoured greens and thoughtfully placed bunkers. Its rolling terrain and natural wind conditions provide an engaging experience for golfers seeking a test of precision and strategy.
Blue Top Ridge Golf Course stands as a compelling challenge for Riverside and eastern Iowa golfers seeking an 18-hole layout that balances rugged character with purposeful design. This public course stretches over 7,150 yards from the back tees with a par of 72, carving its presence into gently rolling terrain that tests every aspect of one’s game. The course’s defining traits are its sharply contoured greens and strategically placed bunkers, creating moments that engage focus and precise execution.
The routing weaves naturally through open fairways and stands of native trees, with undulating ground that influences shot selection on nearly every hole. Golfers will find the putting surfaces among the most selective in the region, demanding careful reads and confident strokes. Sand bunkers guard key landing zones and the greens themselves, often forcing a measured approach shot to navigate the angles. Though the layout is known for its challenge, it offers teeing grounds to accommodate a broad range of skill levels, making the course approachable for mid to low handicaps while still rewarding precision and course management.
Blue Top Ridge’s open setting allows the wind to play a subtle yet ever-present factor, encouraging creativity and adaptability in shot shaping. The conditioning is excellent year-round, with smooth, fast greens and well-maintained fairways that respond well to approach shots and putts alike. Players will appreciate the blend of natural Iowa topography with thoughtful golf architecture, designed to provide a test without overwhelming newcomers.
The clubhouse serves as a welcoming hub with amenities including a pro shop and practice facilities, ensuring golfers can prepare and unwind in comfort. Walking is allowed and recommended for those who want to experience the course’s natural features fully, though carts are readily available. Planning a round in late afternoon may offer more favorable conditions and an opportunity to benefit from twilight rates.
Blue Top Ridge Golf Course remains a memorable Iowa destination that challenges the player’s full arsenal while rewarding thoughtful strategic play within a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.
Notable for its sharply contoured and fast green complexes, Blue Top Ridge challenges golfers with bunker placements designed to test shot accuracy. The routing through rolling hills takes advantage of natural Iowa landscape, while consistent course conditioning provides a championship-level test accessible to many skill levels.
Experience one of golf's most legendary courses
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3184 IA-22, Riverside, IA 52327, USA
Main clubhouse with pro shop and practice facilities
Walking is encouraged to fully appreciate the course’s terrain; firm-soled golf shoes recommended.
Open to the public with tee times recommended; twilight specials available.