Course Review: Palouse Ridge Golf Club
- Northwest Links
- Jun 25
- 3 min read
Course Overview
Location: Pullman, WA (Washington State University campus)
Course Type: Public / University-owned
Par & Yardage: Par 72, 7,308 yards from Crimson tees (also 6,723 yd blue, 6,172 yd gray, 5,552 yd black, and 5,106 yd green)
Rating & Slope: Crimson tees: 75.9 rating / 140 slope, Blue tees: 72.9 rating / 134 slope
Designer & Opened: John Harbottle III (in collaboration with Robert Muir Graves and Ted Locke), opened Aug 2008
Notable Features: Rolling Palouse terrain, strategic undulations, small-to-medium greens—many blind or semi-blind—fescue-lined fairways, frequent wind, stunning ridge and valley vistas.
Quick Take: Palouse Ridge feels like a hidden gem turned championship venue. You’re walking into a modern course with a timeless soul—firm, beautiful, and carved right out of the Palouse hills. It’s a place where course strategy truly counts, with spectacular views to boot. Whether you're a local or driving through for a round, bring your game face and soak in the slopey drama.
Detailed Course Breakdown
Course Difficulty – 8/10
Who’s it best for?
Mid- and low handicappers will be thrilled by the shot-making challenges. Higher handicaps can enjoy the layout too—just be prepared for its hidden hazards and blind shots.
Key challenges:
Elevation changes galore (many blind or semi-blind holes)
Fairways slope hard; precision off the tee is rewarded - you don’t want to find yourself in the fescue, trust us
Small greens with subtle contours—read 'em or you're in trouble
Frequent windy days make the course play even tougher
Tee breakdown:
Five options make it accessible—but the Crimson tees aren't for the faint of heart. Blues offer excellent challenge with drama; grays and lower still great for a fun but tasteful test.
Pro Tip:
If it’s your first time playing the course, try to grab a course book, caddie, or someone who’s played it before. There are plenty of blind shots and you want to know which side to err to avoid the treacherous fescue.
Scenery – 9.5/10
Overall vibe:Look out over the full sweep of the Palouse—those iconic velvet wheat-like hills are your backdrop. Sunsets and mornings feel cinematic.
Standout views:
Hole 3: elevated tee with sweeping valley panorama
Hole 10: a back-nine par 5 that lives up to the hype—infiniti-edge bunkers and grand scale
Holes 4 and 11: rugged, links-ish Highland par 3s set into the high slopes
Seasonal notes: Firm, quick summer play is sweet. Spring and fall bring lush green—but maybe slower greens and wetter ground. Winter rounds are possible but bring a jacket and cart.
Walkability – 6/10
Yes, you can walk—it's a beautiful trek—but those ups and downs will show. Cart recommended for most.
Elevation factor: One minute you're riding high, the next you're trekking back up—your legs will feel it .
Cart availability: Carts included in green fee.
Course Conditions & Maintenance – 9/10
Fairways: Firm, fast, lush Kentucky bluegrass with consistent maintenance
Greens: T-1 Bentgrass, sculpted with subtle breaks; quick but fair, not absurdly fast
Bunkers & Wetlands: Strategically placed across holes like the par‑5 5th with water/wetlands crossing
Drainage: Excellent—built for tournament play; turf holds strong through rain days
Amenities & Food – 8/10
Pro shop: Solid range of merch, apparel, and WSU-branded gear for souvenirs.
Food & drinks: Snack cart on course; clubhouse restaurant and bar serves hearty fare with valley views—grab a post-round bite with Cougar pals.
Extras: Learning center, practice range, chipping green, putting space, cart-powered play .
Practice Facilities – 8/10
Full driving range, dedicated chipping green, and good-sized putting green.
Value for Money – 8/10
Typical rates:
Is it worth it?
Yes. It's a championship-grade game with world-class views. Even at peak, you’re paying for scenery, community, and outstanding design.
Booking: Weekends fill up fast in peak months. Weekday morning/twilight? Easiest access.
Overall Rating – 8.8/10
It’s a rare bird: a university course that
meets championship expectations and feels deeply rooted in its landscape. Palouse Ridge delivers strategy, scenery, and community vibes all in one. Whether you're in town for the school, passing through on a PNW trip, or looking for a standout round with your golf buds, this one belongs on your must-play list.
Best For: Golfers who enjoy strategy, links-style, firm turf, photo‑ready holes, and can handle some wind.
Would we recommend? Absolutely—especially on a sunny Pullman day.
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