Nebraska
Top Choice: Quarry Oaks, Ashland
9.1/10
Why it's Spectacular
Designed By: John LaFoy
When one of our friends invited us to Nebraska for a golf trip we could not decline as we knew that the state that prided itself on cattle and corn also had a reputation for some of the best courses in the midwest. When we arrived at Quarry Oaks, we immediately knew why. The grounds of were absolutely impeccable and even from the parking lot of the clubhouse it was clear that the course was going to be scenic, thick with foliage, and challenging.
It did not disappoint. From the first hole on, you were heavily punished if you didn't hit a good drive and the winding holes with significant elevation change forced target golf that pushed our abilities. Dense woodlands, winding fairways, and undulating greens provided plenty of photo opps which easily lured you away from the daunting shots at hand but also gave repreieve for the shots we didn't hit.
Perhaps the most interesting holes occur on the back-9 where the course cozies up to the wide banks of the Platte River which provides a nice backdrop to the sprawling green grass. The final holes take you through the former quarry and a huge elevated tee-shot on 17 drops you into the hollowed canyon where a green now sits, protected by water. It comes as no surprise that Quarry Oaks is the top-rated public course in Nebraska and for very fairly-priced greens fees we would absolutely recommend!
