Hyland Hills

I liked this course more than I expected to. I figured it would be just big elevation changes and not much more. But a lot of the holes play across the slopes or in the woods on top of the hill. The a ... show more ›

I liked this course more than I expected to. I figured it would be just big elevation changes and not much more. But a lot of the holes play across the slopes or in the woods on top of the hill. The amenities (pads, baskets, signage) are excellent, and include a ski lodge with food and a disc golf pro shop. In the end, yes, the thing that really sets it apart is the ski slope, but there's more going on.

Some of the wooded holes, especially #6 & #16, are almost ridiculous in how tight they are. Both go downhill and left through a narrow chute of trees. If you don't hit the curves just right, you will be in some thick brush. The others are challenging but more playable.

One thing about this course is that the most physically demanding climbs and descents all come close to the end. #14 is 545' of probably the steepest slope I've ever climbed straight up. Playing golf becomes secondary to the effort of getting to the top. There are other big climbs, but that's the only one that's almost unreasonable. Of course, the big payoff is getting to throw back down the hill, top to bottom, which you do on the 710' #18. Keep it low and don't pick a disc that's too stable, or you will fall out and cost yourself a lot of distance. Of course, if the course is not too busy and you're like me, you won't be able to resist throwing all your drivers on that one. I could probably stand up there and throw discs all day without getting tired of it.

$5 always seems like a lot after playing most courses for free, but if you are physically fit enough for the hills, I think it's worthwhile to give this one a try. Having tried it once, I am more likely to play Bryant Lake (its sister course) again, but I did enjoy Hyland and will keep it in mind when I'm visiting my home state of MN.