Sunday, October 27, 2013

Charlotte Disc Golf

Since its a frequent question on where to play disc golf in Charlotte when you visit , I'll try to give you a quick low down.

I will assume you are an intermediate or better disc golfer.

Here is a nice map to the top 15 courses in the Charlotte area.

Westside

Number 7 on the map:
The most revered course in Charlotte is Renaissance Park. (aka Renny) You have two layouts to choose from , Silver or Gold. Both are challenging however, Gold is a championship caliber par 70 course. If your short on time Silver clocks in at a 59 will give a great overview of what the Gold course feels like.

Number 15 on the map:
Near Renaissance Park is Plantation Ruins at Winget . It's always reminded me as a "Light" version of Renaissance, I would recommend playing here afterwards. The setting of a old plantation gives this course a lot of character, and a confidence boost after playing its big brother Renny.

Between Renny and Winget is Mac's Speed Shop, a great place to eat. They have really good Beer Can Chicken!

North / Northwest

Number 3 on the map:
RL Smith is a little out of the way from many other courses in the area, however since its easy to get to from 85 and 485 its well worth your time. To find the first Tee follow the sidewalk that leads around the back of the playground, the Tee is on the side of the hill going down in the valley. This course uses the elevation it has to be what I suspect is the most hilly course in Charlotte. You'll be playing in the woods as well, this is a very memorable course.  The course features the best benches I've ever seen on a course... You be happy they are there!

Number 5 on the map:
Hornets Nest was the site of the final 9 for the 2012 Worlds, and a personal favorite. Two layouts Nest and Web share some Tees and Baskets. Nest is Yellow baskets, Web is white. The course plays back to the parking lot after the front 9, so if you bring a cooler you can grab some refreshments out of the trunk. If daylight is a concern play the wooded back 9 first, the front 9 is much more open and easier to finish at dusk.

On your way out, stop at Bubba's BBQ. Its got a big pink pig out front and serves excellent pulled pork.

Number 2 on the map:
Another Stan McDaniel designed course in Charlotte, Nevin will test your disc golf skills. Surely one of the hardest courses in Charlotte Nevin gives two sets of Tees and a par 64 or 69 from longs.

NorthEast

While there are 4 courses in the Northeast , I personally don't spend a ton of time there. They are good courses but are not so differnt from what I consider better choices listed above and below.

South / SouthEast

On the south side the premiere course is the Angry Beaver. As of writing, additional Tees are waiting to be poured. Playing from the now natural Tees brings this course up to a par 70. However the worlds Tees are in and play as Par 66. This site features two courses on the property, the second being a beginner friendly track with long and short tees. 

Near here are many food options.

Rock Hill

A little ride down 77 will take you to Rock Hill, sight of the USDGC. Great layout on a college campus , feels very much like a ball golf course. Navigation can be difficult so bring a course map. If your heading south, I would cap off the trip here.