The Rock Course ☆ Follow

The Rock Course, also known as Top of the Rock, is a nine-hole, par-3 golf course located at Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, Missouri. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the layout is situated atop a mountainside overlooking Table Rock Lake. The course is distinguished by its elevation changes and dramatic views, featuring holes that stretch to over 200 yards. It holds a unique place in golf history as the only par-3 layout ever used by the PGA Tour for a championship event. The terrain is characterized by steep drops, exposed rock ledges, and natural vegetation including rhododendrons and flowering dogwoods. The first hole offers a slight downhill shot with views of the Chapel of the Ozarks and Jack's Cabin, while the second hole requires a shot over a 100-foot drop to a green surrounded by natural flowering vegetation. The third hole is noted for its difficulty, featuring an elevated back tee and a 30-yard deep green cut into a hillside, guarded by a large oak tree and bunkers. Water hazards play a significant role in the course's design. The fourth hole features a lake cutting across the fairway and nesting close to the right side of the green. The sixth hole presents an island green completely surrounded by water and rock formations, requiring a precise strike from an elevated tee to find dry land. Other holes navigate through small valleys and past decorative infinity pools, with greens protected by deep bunkers and natural features. Players utilize the Ozarks National practice facility to warm up before playing. The course is open for the season, with tee times available for booking. The layout combines challenging pin placements and narrow greens with the scenic backdrop of the Ozarks, offering a distinct experience compared to traditional 18-hole courses.