Coolv

A beautiful course, nice layout and great grounds. Some very nice holes although 8 and 9 on the South 9 seemed like an afterthought. It was apparently a busy day but we didn't see anyone behind us until 17, and it was clear ahead of us as well. The downhill par 3 on the West course (6 I think) was challenging due to its height difference, and provided an amazing view.

The only downside was that the marshall drove behind us on 8 and 9 of the front 9 telling us to pick up the pace because we were 2 hours and 10 minutes at the end of 8 and the pace is 4 hours and 20 minutes for 18 holes. There was no one behind us. For some reason he was only pushing on the two english speaking people in the cart, and not the french speaking walkers we were paired with.

I had heard about Northern Bear, but hadn't had a chance to try it. I went on the Friday before the long weekend and it was perfect. I got in on the spring rate for $99 with cart. Course conditions were great although the bunkers were a bit firm. Some quite challenging holes, but none that were frustrating. Pace of play was great, but it was a Friday afternoon, so not a true test. Recommended.

The course wasn't bad. The greens are a bit spotty in places, but it's early season. I've played later in the season and it's been fine. Pace of play is pretty good, as with most courses with GPS carts, the marshals don't typically patrol. There are some weirdly laid out holes (15 and 18 stand out in this), but its a nice enough track. Staff have always been friendly, and you can't beat the twilight rate with a meal certificate.

Played 9 holes in the morning, there was one group a few holes ahead and no one behind me. The course has some very nice holes lined with older growth trees, which seem out of place beside the highway as it is.

Staff were great, and the price is quite good as well compared to the Calgary rates.

Conditions were fine for the time of year (April in Alberta). Greens had been newly aerated.

No real practice facilities beyond a warmup net.

Played as part of a social tournament. Course was in generally good condition, some interesting holes and layout. Not a bad course for being basically right down town. The clubhouse was rather spartan.