River Ridge Golf Club

River Ridge is a challenging 9 hole course in Independence IA on the banks of the Wapsipinicon River. The course has been modified over the years to help with flooding conditions, meaning it has a mix of older holes and newer holes, as well as a few quirks in the routing.

I liked the course, though I didn't love the opening hole. It is a very narrow par 5 with OB left. As someone who hits a draw to a hook, this is my nightmare scenario. The 2nd hole is no bargain either, but after the opening two holes, River Ridge is a nice mix of holes that give you a chance to use most of your bag.

With the rough spring, the conditions at River Ridge aren't great. A few fairways show evidence of flooding and the greens were varying speeds.

The course has been undergoing some tree removal, and I think it's only going to get better. I am excited to check it out again in a couple years.