Olde Stonewall Golf Club

Sometimes, a course just knows how to appeal to you at a very simple level. The back tees at Olde Stonewall are called the “Epic” tees; they are also rated a 74.3 and carry a 149 slope; so, as much primal appeal as they may have had, I stayed away. Which didn’t mean I didn’t get to play from “cool” tees, it was the medieval’s for me (still a knee-knocking 72.4/146). Beyond the names of the tees, there’s the castle (yes a castle!) clubhouse and a staggering amount of rock work throughout the course. Visually, Olde Stonewall hits all the marks.

You can play some golf here as well, and the 140+ slope on all of the first three sets of tees is no joke. Even the front-most tees play to a 127 and 132 respectively; so there is challenge no matter what tees you choose to play. Elevation change, water, well planned landing areas, and forest lined fairways are hallmarks of most holes on this robust track which can play from 5241 all the way out to 7103. Once holding the #50 spot on golf Digests “top 100 courses you can play” list and a “top ten best new courses” winner in 1999 “Epic” seems appropriate.

There are multiple high vista holes throughout the course with fantastic views of the surrounding areas and really elevated tee boxes; for example, the Epic tee box on the 474 yard par four 16th (which I played because once you stand there, there’s no way you are walking back down to the Medieval tees) turned my 220-230 yard 3 wood into a 281 yard “driver.” However, for my money, the best golf hole is the far more sedate number four. This 414 treat plays to water on the right and has a small pine perfectly placed at the edge of the opposite side of the fairway providing just enough to think about on a challenging yet scoreable hole.

In general I found the holes to be a good golf test while still being playable. There weren’t many “gimmick” holes (unless you consider very elevated tee boxes a gimmick); and while most of the golf was straightforward, there were some “target golf” holes for fans of more extensive “game management” as well. The course uses its bunkers, and to a lesser degree water hazards, judiciously to defend landing areas and greens without being overly excessive or punitive. The bent grass greens are also in great shape and play true (which means really paying attention to not just the break of the green but also the flow of the grain or your putting pace could be a real issue).

Olde Stonewall was in fantastic condition and since I was first out, pace of play wasn’t an issue either. When I finished and observed the other groups going out and making the turn, there were no signs that anything had changed in that area after I got on the course. Both the club pro and the starter were engaging and helpful with course information (including an interesting history on how the course came into being), and the grounds crew was attentive and courteous as well.

Oh, one last thing... this is *NOT* a walking course. Tons of elevation change and some pretty long commutes from green to the next tee box. Even if you are up for the hike, there is no way you can walk it without effecting pace of play unless you are the last person on the course for the day.

I really enjoyed my experience at Olde Stonewall and look forward to visiting again.

I have played Olde Stonewall 4 times now and I have never been disappointed. This place is by far the nicest course in PA. The fairways & greens are always in championship conditions. I would recommend that everyone play this course , it's very challenging especially the back 9. Also the staff here is great, they are always happy to help w/ any questions you
May have and never make you feel like you don't belong there no matter how good (or bad like me) of a golfer you are. If you are around the western PA area treat yourself to a round here you will not be disappointed

This course is a must play course.The course has great views elevation changes and is well kept even during the winter months.The staff is very helpful and friendly and they make you feel like your at home.The pro shop is well stocked with top of the line equipment and clothing.This is a course that you must play if your in the western Pa. area..It is a top 5 course in Western Pa and my number 1 course.I wish I would have found it years ago.

A course you can play everyday and never get bored with it. Beautiful greens . Lots of sand. Spectacular views. Great practice facilities. Bring your A game. Or bring some extra balls. Play the white tees unless your a 5 or below handicap.

There is no better place to play than Olde Stonewall. The course is kept in impeccable shape, every hole is better than the next, the views are incredible, the greens run true and fast, its beauty is second to none and the staff makes you feel like its your home. It truly a special place to play.

On top of all the amenities, pro shop has all the name apparel and new clubs at lower than big box stores. If all that does not bring you out, the restaurant is top notch.

Olde Stonewall needs to be on your don't miss list.

I have played this course for 5 years. I am constantly amazed at the way the course challenges your game. No putt on the green is the same. The course is in pristine shape all the time. The staff is exceptional. I like to play early morning golf. I tend to follow the staff around the course. They are so friendly and accommodating. You always have a great lie in the fairway and the greens are fast and true. I recommend this course to anyone traveling through Western Pennsylvania. Fantastic.

Has something for everyone, challenging yet forgiving!! Beautiful layout!! Great greens!! Great fairways!! Great course!!

The course is always in great shape. Green all year round! Fairways are great, greens are fast and undulating and tons of sand traps! When people see the length of the course, many will travel to the tees further back forgetting that it is a Par 70 course. Two less par 5's makes the white tees plenty long! This course has all the challenge you need from any of the tees. Go to the Epic tees (championship tees) to see the course as it was designed! When you arrive to when you conclude, the staff is incredibly friendly and accommodating! This is a great place to play golf

You will not find a better course in the area and it is more convenient to get to than you might think. Every hole provides a different challenge and it is always in pristine condition. The front 9 makes you think on every shot, from tee to green. The back 9 is more picturesque and provides elevations that make you think twice before every swing. If you hit straight, definitely a course you can score on. But don't plan on hitting wedges into every hole. You will use every club in your bag, whether you play from the whites or the tips. The golf carts are the best I've been around and for getting to play in February, the course was in great shape already. I've played a number of times over the years there, and between the actual course, the staff, the amenities and the restaurant (Shakepeare's), you won't find a better place anywhere close to Olde Stonewall. Mark my word.

A great course no matter what your handicap or skill level. Each tee box will provide a fun but challenging round. The course will make you think and appreciate shot selection. When the fescue is up and the greens are rolling you won't find a more challenging public course. It's rivals some of the top CCs in the area. The course is always in great shape and maintained just like it was a country club. Calling this a public course doesn't do it justice.
The back nine is as tough as any nine you may find and boasts some of the hardest holes you'll play anywhere (The par 3 15th from the tips is worth the try).
The stone walls and other aesthetics gives this course great views during play.
The staff is super friendly and overly accommodating and the restaurant is top notch.

best course this side of Oakmont. Great staff, challenging course, wonderful setting. If you get a chance to play take it, you will not be sorry.

Cannot say enough good things about Olde Stonewall. This is truly a great golf course with a great staff. This course is always in great condition, the greens run true and fast. This course is a great test of golf skills. After play the Shakespeare Restaurant is a great place to eat. The bar area is very nice.

A very fun golf course to play. To say that the elevations are stunning does not still give it enough credit. The views are incredible as you work your way into the back nine. The course plays fair to all, and the fairways are immaculate. The Golf Carts have very accurate GPS, and the staff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly. If you are any kind of golfer, you will appreciate the uniqueness of this course. Highly recommended to play!

The course is spectacular!! Greens are extremely prepared the layout will take your breath
The staff is better than my CC , friendly, informed and all ways willing to help
One of the best places I've played in the US
This is as good as it gets

Olde Stonewall is one of those rare courses that combine natural beauty with a layout that is both challenging and fair. Starting with the first hole, a premium is placed on keeping the ball on the fairway. The bunkers are deep and well-maintained, the fairways are in excellent condition, and the greens are very fast. Overall, the course is extremely playable with five sets of tees.

The staff is friendly and accommodating, and they make you feel that they are genuinely happy to see you. There are lockers and shower facilities available for day players, a restaurant with a full menu, and a fully stocked golf shop.

For an enjoyable day of golf, Olde Stonewall is the perfect choice

Wonderful golf course! Olde Stonewall never disappoints....always in very good condition and challenging. The staff across the board is friendly and professional. If you are looking for a great day of golf I would highly recommend checking out Olde Stonewall.

1st time here great setup. Get your game tight on the front 9 you have to be really tight on the back 9. Surprised no par fives on back (doesnt really matter once you get there you have enough on you plate at that point), 14 and 15 par 3's is a lesson in iron play. 16 drive up to the very top (grey tees) best view I've had on a course put your big boy pants on and let it rip (240 just to clear the valley). I think it plays long enough you cannot club down and play safety golf (thank you!). Very much enjoyed and will be back.

I have ben a member now for 3 years, and after being a member of other so called "high-end" courses, I find Olde Stonewall to be the best in western Pennsylvania. It is challenging but fair, and you have to use all your clubs in the bag. The greens are near perfect and pace of play very solid. I would recommend OS foe anyone t any level. And the staff are the very best.

Best public course I have played anywhere. I watched a bald eagle sore along the creek. The greens were as good as any I have ever played. They have a great staff and pro shop. The food is really good too. If you want a real challenge go to the back tees. Good luck !

From the beautiful castle to the breathtaking views, this course has it all. The staff is excellent and more than helpful. The gentlemen at the bag drop start your experience with that of a country club. The staff in the pro shop continue that experience with kindness and a helping hand. The pro shop is loaded. If you don't see it they will find it or try and get it for you. Now the course. Not for the faint of heart. You must place your shots well. If you are off a bit you have to work but it's fair. Just spectacular! Very challenging but so beautiful. Fairways prefect and greens fast. Back nine is one that all courses should emulate. Just breathtaking. Recommend this course to everyone! When your done enjoy drinks and dinner with the best staff and food around. Just a delight!!