Revealed: the 10 toughest golf courses in America

Premium golf apparel brand, Galvin Green, analyzed the number of keywords related to a difficult golf course, such as 'advanced' and 'elevation change,' in the TripAdvisor reviews written by average golfers for over 800 courses in the US.

For those with at least 50 reviews, they looked at the average number of keywords indicating difficulty per review to determine which course Americans find the hardest.

"It is fascinating to see which courses Americans find the toughest. Whether you’re looking to test your skills or simply enjoy the thrill of conquering a tough course, these ones offer experiences that will challenge even the most seasoned golfers,” a spokesperson said.

"It is also great to see a mix of courses from different states, showcasing the diverse golfing challenges across the country. Hopefully, this research will inspire golf enthusiasts to push their limits and tackle one of the more difficult courses.

"Wherever and whenever you choose to play, Galvin Green has the clothing to match."

Here’s the countdown…

10. The Champions Club at Summerfield

Tenth is The Champions Club at Summerfield, Florida, which has an average of 0.943 keywords per review. It has a total of 53 reviews, which include 50 keywords. Overall, it is rated 4 stars.

Built in 1993, the course is a par-72, 18-hole course designed by Tom Fazio.

It measures 6,890 yards from the gold tees if you want a true challenge. The blue tees play at 6,313 yards, white at 5,,771, and green at 4,977.

9. PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course

In ninth place is PGA West Pete Dye Stadium Golf Course in California. It has an average of 0.944 keywords included in each of its 178 TripAdvisor reviews. The course is rated 4.5 stars overall, with the term 'tough' appearing 33 times, while the term 'fast greens' appears 17 times.

At 7,300 yards, the Stadium Course – home of the PGA TOUR’s early-season American Express tournament has the highest stroke (76.1) and slope (150) ratings of all the courses at PGA West.

With five sets of tees, the Stadium is apparently playable for all skill levels but it might require some pride swallowing.

8. Tot Hill Farm Golf Club

Tot Hill Farm Golf Club in North Carolina takes eighth place, with 0.956 keywords per review on average. The course has 68 TripAdvisor reviews, which include 65 difficulty-related keywords. The word 'challenging' appears 20 times among the reviews, with an overall rating of 4 stars.

The course plays at 6,713 yards from the Maverick (black) tees and is known to psyche out players who are unfamiliar with how to approach its more challenging holes.

Iconic course designer Mike Strantz produced a true gem that defies expectations just like the man himself.

7. Shell Landing Golf Course

Next up is Shell Landing Golf Course in Mississippi, with an average of 0.963 keywords used in each review. The term 'challenging' appeared the most, included in 19 reviews. Overall, it has 52 keywords spread across 54 reviews, and a rating of 4.5 stars.

Because of its various slopes, bunkers, dog legs, water hazards, and sand traps, this top-ranked, championship course offers challenges for even the most seasoned golfers.

Exemplary service, five sets of tees, and immaculate course conditioning make a visit to this course a rewarding, enjoyable experience for golfers who demand the best.

6. Wentworth Golf Club, Florida

With an average of 0.982 keywords per TripAdvisor review, Wentworth Golf Club in Florida ranks sixth. The course has 55 reviews, which contain 54 keywords, with an overall rating of 4 stars.

Prepare to bring your best game, as each hole has been meticulously crafted to test players of all skill levels.

Despite its modest length of 6,500 yards from the tips, the narrow fairways create an illusion of greater length.

5. Cinnabar Hills Golf Club

In fifth place is Cinnabar Hills Golf Club, California, which has an average of 0.984 difficulty-related keywords in each of its 61 reviews. The most common keyword among its reviews is 'challenging,' which appears 11 times.

Peacefully tucked in and around the hills, a short drive south of fast-paced Silicon Valley, Cinnabar Hills Golf Club blends championship-caliber golf with spectacular views.

San Jose’s first public course to open in 30 years was designed by award-winning architect John Harbottle III. Each hole has been crafted to maintain the natural slope of the area and to protect the local wildlife.

4. Stone Ridge Golf Course

Arizona’s Stone Ridge Golf Course ranks fourth, with an average of 1.0 keyword used in each review. The keyword 'fast greens' appears six times, while 'elevation change' shows up 11 times. Overall, it is rated 4 stars, with 74 reviews in total.

Nestled in the picturesque foothills of the Rogue Valley, Stone Ridge Golf Club offers a spectacular golfing experience with breathtaking views at every turn.

The 18-hole championship course offers a challenge to all levels of golfers and is sure to be an amazing experience for all. Stone Ridge Golf Club enjoys the most stunning views of any course in Southern Oregon.

3. Wine Valley Golf Course

Next on the list is Wine Valley Golf Course in Washington, with 1.088 keywords used per review on average. It has 80 reviews on TripAdvisor, including 87 keywords, with the most used term being 'challenging.'

This stunning Dan Hixson design unfolds on a grand scale, playing over rolling hills in the shadow of the Blue Mountains.

Each hole affords multiple lines of play, ensuring a pleasant round for every golfer and a true challenge for those who seek it.

2. Bethpage Black

In second place is Bethpage Black, which has an average of 1.112 keywords per review. The New York course has 107 reviews in total, with 119 keywords included in them. The course is famous for its difficulty and has hosted several major tournaments, including the U.S. Open. The most common keyword used in its reviews is 'tough.'

Located in suburban Long Island in close proximity to New York City, Bethpage is a mecca for public golf featuring five 18-hole regulation golf courses, including the world-renowned Black Course.

The Park was developed from an estate owned by the Yoakum family and other surrounding properties in Farmingdale.

1. TPC Tampa Bay

At the top of the list is TPC Tampa Bay, located in Florida, with an average of 1.2 difficulty-related keywords in each review. Overall, it has a 4.5-star rating, with 105 reviews containing 126 keywords. The term 'fast greens' appears the most, used in 22 reviews.

Home of 21 consecutive Champions Tour events, the stunning course winds through natural wetlands, cypress heads and lagoons, providing the perfect backdrop for outstanding golf.

The natural setting and abundance of wildlife are why TPC Tampa Bay is one of only two courses in the Tampa Bay area to be designated as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Aside from the wildlife, the masterfully designed course is meant to challenge the top golfers of the world, but also to provide a challenging and fun experience for players of all abilities.

READ MORE: Turnberry 'surpasses' Shadow Creek as most expensive round in the world

The post Revealed: the 10 toughest golf courses in America appeared first on Golf365.