Course #2 Ravines at Cog Hill Golf and Country Club

I played here as other courses weren't open for the year yet. Course was in horrible condition. Several Holes were closed and the course used temporary holes. Greens weren't mowed or cut for what seemed like last fall. You could not get the ball to the hole no matter how hard you hit it. Long, Slow Bumpy. I would not have been a big deal if proshop would have told us this prior to paying but they didn't and charged us a full rate of $70. It appears the owners doesn't care anymore and are only trying to squeeze as much money out it as they can.

Old school- class- challenging! Hit the pro shop.... Plenty of Under Armour Gear!

The Good: The second course at Cog Hill, appropriately named "Ravines", is not the caliber of Dubsdread, but its probably the most fun course of the four. Lee, Wilson and Roquemore layout is classic parkland design with very strong Par 3's, nice variety of Par 4's, and one excellent Par 5. Very good course conditions and good greens for a public facility. Great driving range and good short game area. One of the most fair priced public tracks in the Chicago market. Arguably the best pure golf layout within 30 miles of the city under $75.

The Bad: Pace of play was horrendous. Limited on-course service and course does not route back to the clubhouse after 9 holes. Clubhouse and dining facilities are only fair. The closing hole is pretty benign. Lack of GPS or significant signage is a big minus.

The Verdict: Ravines is a very fun course, but beware that you are basically forgotten about by the staff unless you are playing Dubsdread. Great course for the 8-15 handicapper. Despite lack of service, a strong track for the price tag.

Best Hole(s): The Par 5 9th is a great 3-shot hole that has a look similar to the closing hole on No.4. The Par 4 10th is a beast that requires a tough drive and approach to a green perched over a signature ravine.