D'Arcy Ranch Golf Club

D'Arcy Ranch has been on the radar for sometime. Whenever I was in the neighborhood I would just cross my fingers and attempt to get on as a single walk on...without success. It's a clear testament as to how popular a course it is. This time around I booked the maximum seven days in advance on line to secure my round. D’Arcy Ranch really is one of those courses that rewards the effort it takes to get on.

Check in was more than welcoming and a hats off go to Sean and the staff as they do a great job of getting golfers to where they need to be. A fleet of fairly new Yamaha golf carts were lined up and their distribution was handled like clockwork by an efficient crew of attendants. Practice facilities are at a high standard with a driving range and practice bunker found just across the parking lot and a large practice green is smartly positioned beside the opening tee.

The fairways at D'Arcy feature gently sweeping contours that can make drives and second shots challenging. Many fairways have mounds or slopes that may bring an off line shot back into play. The contouring of the fairways and greens echo the movement of the surrounding landscape. The course has a multitude of elevated tee boxes giving golfers endless opportunities to study the fairways, hazards and landing areas that lie ahead.

The greens complexes come in a variety of sizes and shapes that grab your attention. You need to direct your approach shots to the right sections as opposed to just finding the green. The many swales, ridges and breaks can make even the three foot putts treacherous. The greens all rolled with exacting consistency.

The use of spectacular bunkering enhances the beauty of the fairways and greens. The greens are well protected at the sides and backs by bunkers that tend to gather mishit approaches. Many are substantial in depth but are graded such that errant shots can be played towards the hole. Of the three ponds scattered across the property, they only threaten play on three holes.

It's not that there are a few good holes at D'Arcy Ranch, it's that there are so many great holes. It's impossible to pick a favorite but if I could, a strong candidate would be Hole 18, a 420 yard, Par 4 gem. A fabulous closing hole that finishes at the foot of the clubhouse but not before taking you on one more joyride as it tumbles downhill to an inviting green framed by tall spruce, rolling hillocks and cavernous bunkers.

The architectural firm Finger Dye Spann did a remarkable job of utilizing the natural terrain and serpentine valleys in designing this course. D'Arcy Ranch delivers breathtaking vistas, shot making challenges and absolute fun. After your round, head back to the welcoming two‑storey clubhouse, where a pint and a bite complete a splendid day spent on a truly fun and memorable course.

Great shot making course with lots of different elevation changes and great tee shots. Lots of holes you are required to hit the fairway off tee so it makes you choose Driver or shorter club for accuracy. Would recommend this course! The greens rolled pure and the fairways are great. Good for all skill levels and you will have some shots that you will remember!

Being a resident of Okotoks this by far is one of the nicest public courses i have had the opportunity to play. Some of the best mountain views you will experience in Southern Alberta. A great selection of tee boxes provide a great golfing experience. I have played most of the public courses in Alberta and by far this course set up is a real treat. It has the best early bird back nine special in Alberta of 25 dollars. Well worth the price.