Golf Course Review by: Billy Satterfield
Rankings:
The Takeaway: A strong test from the tips but playable for all levels from the forward tees, Northern Bear can accommodate a wide range of players on a fair, but not stellar, course. Grade C+
Quick Facts
Designer: Jack Nicklaus 2002
Cost: $49 - $114 (cart included) Click for current rates
Phone Number: 780-922-2327
Course Website: Official Website - Visit Northern Bear Golf Club's official website by clicking on the link provided.
Directions: Get here! - 51055 Northern Bear Golf Course, Sherwood Park, Alberta T8C 1J6 – CANADA
Photos: See additional photos of Northern Bear Golf Club
What to Expect: Northern Bear is a Jack Nicklaus design southeast of Edmonton that is a host site on the PGA Tour Canada. The course is routed through a residential development with a modest amount of movement in the terrain and a handful of water hazards coming into play. When the course was designed, Jack was asked which hole would be considered the signature. He said, “The 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th . . .” in an effort to indicate all the holes are good without focusing on any individual offering. While the holes are solid, the reality is that it is difficult to identify a signature hole simply because there isn’t a compelling enough hole to garner that much attention. Typical Nicklaus design features are found here, but the course isn't as engaging as most of his tracks due to the fairly uninspiring terrain and conditioning that is average at best. Where Northern Bear ultimately delivers is as one of the stoutest tests in Alberta measuring 7400 yards from the tips and being a worthy stop for the best players in Canada, but there are other options for those looking for compelling architecture and scenic settings.
By the Numbers
| Tees | Par | Yardage | Rating | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 72 | 7352 | 75.1 | 137 |
| Gold | 72 | 6984 | 73.2 | 131 |
| Blue | 72 | 6779 | 72.3 | 128 |
| Blue/White | 72 | 6369 | 70.6 | 123 |
| White | 72 | 6042 | 69.6 | 121 |
| White/Red | 72 | 5647 | 67.0 | 117 |
| Red (Ladies) | 72 | 5244 | 70.9 | 123 |
Individual Hole Analysis
Signature Hole: 18th Hole – 454 Yard Par 4 –
Best Par 3: 4th Hole – 163 Yards –
Best Par 4: 12th Hole – 458 Yards –
Best Par 5: 10th Hole – 540 Yards –
Birdie Time: 16th Hole – 404 Yard Par 4 –
Bogey Beware: 9th Hole – 452 Yard Par 4 –
