Variety of Scenic Golf Courses Make Game Even More Relaxing
golf, golf courses, recreation,
Golfing is an especially satisfying experience here, thanks to a variety of venues offering spectacular views and quality amenities.
Among the top of these destinations is Lewis River Golf Course, which is nestled in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains and features tree-lined fairways of large firs and maples, along with a few ponds and several greenside bunkers.
The fairways are a true test of golf because they are quite narrow, and the course is always in good shape thanks to the expert grounds-keeping crew. The facility also features a riverside restaurant that even has an outdoor fire pit and can host banquet events with seating for up to 400 people.
Another top pick is the scenic Longview Country Club, which opened in 1926. It features a challenging par-70 layout for its private membership and includes bluegrass fairways and greens.
Meanwhile, Mint Valley Golf Course in Longview is not only one of the finest public settings in the state, but it also serves incredible hamburgers. The Mint Valley Burger has become legendary at the clubhouse restaurant.
As for the course, it has several water hazards, tall trees and well-bunkered greens that are fast and in excellent condition. Besides the 18-hole layout, Mint Valley has a six-hole, par 3 pitch-and-putt course for golfers looking to improve their short game.
In Kelso, Three Rivers Golf Course has also garnered stellar reviews for its well-manicured terrain. It provides a true 18-hole challenge as a par 72, 6,700-yard public venue, and golfers are actually playing on a bit of history whenever they tee it up.
When Mount St. Helens erupted in 1980, the Cowlitz River became clogged with mud and ash, so the Army Corps of Engineers dumped much of the dredge spoils on land that would eventually become Three Rivers Golf Course. Then people found out that grass could grow great on the dredging, and today this course has lush green grass all year round.
Story by Kevin Litwin
