Mad River is a multi-faceted golf experience. The course offers a variety of strategic choices and shot variations that demand finesse, patience, attack and composure. Players will find themselves using every shot and club in their arsenal to accommodate the different lengths of each par. Nine of the 18 greens are elevated in varying height above their fairways, requiring accurate club selection and – inevitably – a creative short game. Despite the relatively small size of the greens, each has a possibility for open pin locations as well as ones that are tucked and tempting.

What makes these challenges enjoyable for members year after year is the unspoiled beauty of the place – the long views over farmland, the roll of the fairways, the play of light and shadow in the early morning and late afternoon. Mad River is also an eminently fair and engaging test of golfing ability. While the course was lengthened in 2012 for the two back tees, the forward tees were moved up on several holes. Mad River now has 13 sets of fully rated and handicapped tees – six for men, five for women and two for juniors – that ensure an enjoyable golfing experience for players of every skill level.

Mad River’s extensive practice facilities are located just steps from the first and tenth tees. In addition to a wide driving range and large tee deck, the short-game area is equipped with target flags, an elevated green and practice bunkers that enable members to replicate many of the challenges they face on the course.