July 16, 2018
Above is a photo of Walter Hagen, circa 1923, making a spectacular drive on the new Saranac Inn Golf Course with a foursome. Hagen made the 18 holes in 70 swings, creating a record for the course.
The pro's pro
The Saranac Inn Golf Course was once part of the famous Saranac Inn Resort. The original six holes were built in 1901 and in 1910 the course was extended to 18 holes. Ingrained in history, buried in tradition, the Saranac Inn has been true to the architect, Seymour Dunn’s, original plan to offer guests a pleasurable round of golf. After building over 300 courses in many parts of the world, Dunn stated that the Saranac Inn was his “masterpiece.” He also stated that “anyone who was able to play on the Inn course would be able to give a credible account of themselves on any course.”
This course was strategically designed to be playable, enjoyable, and challenging for all levels of play. Seymour Dunn had a sharp understanding of golf and an astonishing ability to translate that understanding into a design that's lasted the test of time and lived through advancements in technology and generations of golfers. Many of the top pros used Seymour's instruction methods to improve their game. They include some of the greatest golfers of all time: Jim Barnes, Walter Hagen, and Gene Sarazen.
Faster is better
The fast and true bent grass greens give you a chance to sink some putts, but don’t get too complacent as each green is different and unique. The well-bunkered greens are undulating and fast, requiring a soft touch, yet they still run true. Some holes are long while others are short and unique, tossing challenges in to keep golfers alert. Some greens are flat while others are large and slope from front to back. Be ready for the greens with false fronts and that heart-stopper three-tier green on the ninth hole. Speaking of the ninth, it has been described as a wave that can putt out from under your feet.
The Saranac Inn Golf Course is for all golfers who understand the compelling love-hate relationship the game provides. Some holes you’ll love, some holes you’ll hate, but it will be impossible to forget the great golfing and fantastic fun. This is a course that doesn’t do ambivalence or cookie-cutter — without a doubt you’ll play and dream of coming back again and again.
Tees and fairways
Golfers here can almost practice putt on the meticulously maintained bentgrass tees. As a matter of fact, back in the mid '80s, the grounds crew would cut cups into the tees for golfers to practice their putting while they waited. The Saranac Inn has four sets of tees for beginners to advanced players. The fairways are tightly mowed, green, and lush with some elevation changes, featuring major uphill and downhill holes. With 18 holes purposefully deigned to challenge golfers at every level, playing the Saranac Inn is a memorable round of golf and a great way to spend the day.
A true Adirondack getaway
If you're coming to spend time in the area, take advantage of staying right here on the course. Not only does the Saranac Inn Golf Club provide a championship level course, there is also a modest ten room motel located just steps away from the first tee and clubhouse. Groups of golfers look forward to the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, where they can enjoy the package deal of playing the game they love followed by a fun place to stay. It has become a tradition for many golf groups to come and spend a weekend without having to leave.
A warm welcome
As if the spectacular course with partial mountain and lake views isn't enough, you'll be unduly impressed with the friendly and accommodating staff the Saranac Inn provides. From the moment you walk through the door you'll be instantly aware of the staff's interest in making sure you have a great golf experience. From the big hello when you enter the clubhouse to the thank you when you finish your round, the staff at the Saranac Inn want you to have fun and feel right at home.
Reasonable rates and a friendly staff make Saranac Inn Golf Club the best golf value in the Adirondacks!
We love the outdoors in Saranac Lake. Come stay with us and find out why.
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