RTJ Golf Trail at The Shoals
RTJ Golf Trail at The Shoals delivers an 18-hole championship layout set amid gently rolling terrain and shimmering water features. This public course offers a balanced challenge with wide fairways and intricate greens, welcoming players of all skill levels to experience the best of Robert Trent Jones design in Northwest Alabama.
Course Overview
Located in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, RTJ Golf Trail at The Shoals offers an 18-hole championship experience that blends strategic design with the natural contours of the Tennessee Valley. This public course is part of the renowned Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, known for delivering challenging layouts suited for a broad range of skill levels. The course unfolds across spacious fairways that encourage bold play, while demanding precision from its thoughtfully positioned bunkers and undulating greens.
The Shoals’ setting welcomes golfers with an open, airy landscape that incorporates subtle elevation changes and water features, offering both visual variety and strategic challenge. Players will find wide landing zones that make it approachable for high handicappers, yet the course’s length and green complexity present a solid test for more advanced players seeking to sharpen their short game and approach shots.
Seasonal conditions generally keep the turf lush and playable from spring through early fall. The well-maintained fairways and fast, receptive greens reward accurate iron play and thoughtful course management. For those planning a visit, morning tee times are ideal for enjoying calm winds and softer greens, while afternoons may present a stiffer breeze that tests shot trajectory and tempo.
The clubhouse serves as a welcoming hub with dining facilities that overlook key portions of the course, perfect for post-round reflection or casual gatherings. Golfers can take advantage of a fully stocked pro shop and professional instruction, making it an accessible stop for families, groups, and solo travelers alike.
Walking is encouraged and offers a chance to absorb the course’s varied terrain, though power carts are available on request. Good walking shoes are recommended, particularly on hotter days when the sun commands respect. Visitors can expect a smooth booking process with friendly staff ready to assist both newcomers and returning players.
RTJ Golf Trail at The Shoals combines classic golf architecture with modern playability in a setting that rewards thoughtful strategy and steady execution, promising a memorable day on the course for players at every level.
Course Highlights
The course showcases wide fairways bordered by deep rough, multiple elevation shifts, and water hazards that strategically influence play. Its greens are fast and varied, rewarding finesse and course management. The Shoals is noted for its scenic views of Lake Wilson and its combination of challenge and accessibility typical of the RTJ Trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
John Lindberg
RTJ run the best golf operations I’ve experienced. From the moment you arrive you’ll quickly see it’s a first class operation. We had breakfast and thanks to Ariel’s excellent service we all enjoyed our time. I ordered the Three Egg omelette, which was cooked to perfection. My friend ordered the fruit plate FRESHLY prepared and full of flavor. Highly recommend eating on the back patio to enjoy the beautiful views! The course was in EXCELLENT shape and the maintenance crews keep it in FIRST CLASS CONDITION. We’ll be back!
Jerry Smith
Chris Wagner
Beautiful facility. Course layout was awesome. Multiple sets of tees to accommodate all golfers. Well stocked pro shop. Starters were friendly and helpful. Conditions were very good even with change in seasons. Greens were quick and tricky. Enjoyed my day here. Thank you.
Daniel Nelson
Nice course. Loved the layout.
Harold Schultz
One of the BEST RTJ courses, we all had a great time (8 guys), and location is the best of all. Excellent view of Lake Wilson
Craig Cowell
One of the best golf courses on the RTJ Golf Trail, probably because it is a bit out the of way and doesn't get the play that other courses do (like RTJ Hampton Cove -- my home course). Everything is first class, as is what's expected on an Alabama RTJ course. Great layout; keep your camera ready. Lots of postcard-level photos will be made. Both courses equally challenging. Both are just wonderful. You can't go wrong here.
Samuel Hunt
My favorite course in AL. Beautiful course and views. Extraordinary design. Wide fairways lined by deep rough, multiple cut depths, perfect greens, trees, sand, and elevation changes. Come and experience what PGA pros and amateurs feel like playing great courses. DON'T BE A DOUCHBAG AND SAND YOUR FAIRWAY SHOTS AND FIX YOUR DIVOTS ON THE GREEN. This place is a church of golf in AL. Revere it. Respect yourself and treat yourself. Elevate your golf experience.
Jimmy Turner
This is a great place to play golf with two great courses and a nice practice area. The only issue with RTJ at the Shoals is the condition of the greens. The rains this year have made it difficult to maintain them, I’m sure. Hopefully they can improve. I would hope that the greens would be changed to hybrid Burmuda, but obviously I don’t have a vote on that.
Him Mcgee
Justin Pearson
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Course Details
Access & Location
990 Sunbelt Pkwy, Muscle Shoals, AL 35661, USA
The Shoals Clubhouse features a full-service dining room and pro shop with practice facilities.
Walking is welcomed and enjoyable over the gently rolling terrain. Wear supportive shoes, and be prepared for moderate elevation changes.
Reservations recommended, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
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