Hinton Golf Club

I've driven past the Hinton Golf Club on multiple occasions on my way to the neighboring province of BC but have never made the time to stop and play. Well, today I made the early morning drive from Whitecourt to Hinton to satisfy my curiosity. As a single walk on there was no problem scoring a tee time.

After a brief visit to the range and the practice putting green I made my way to the first tee. A quick study of the scorecard determined that I play the Black/Blue Combo tees as that best suited my handicap.

The first hole has a welcoming view from its slightly elevated tee box. A 516 yard Par 5, dogleg left with an inviting water hazard up the left. I chose the preferred line which was right center. The course winds its way through mature pine and poplar trees. There are a few elevation changes. The fairways are wide enough to forgive a miss hit or two. The course has two blind tee shots, hole 10 and 18. Things to avoid are the seven water hazards and the17 bunkers scattered around the course.

The greens are large and putting was pretty consistent throughout.

Birdies are there for the taking as the course has four Par 5's and five Par 3's. The course plays to Par 71. Two holes stood out for me, holes 11 and 15. Hole 15 is a diabolical 190 yard, Par 3 where I had a "Tin Cup" moment and eventually had to pencil in an 8 on the card...but it was a fun 8.

The pro shop is well stocked and the golf club has just recently acquired a fleet 60-65 new golf carts...that's nice to see. The restaurant has a variety of offerings to satisfy both your thirst and appetite.

I played with a member and had a ball. Plenty of wildlife to see...no surprise because you're just outside the national park. No tricked up holes. Course is pretty easy to walk. Has some challenge but not overly hard. Scenic. Was nice to have the company and advice of a member but can be played solo for the first time without wondering where to go or where to shoot.