Chicagoland Special
Chick Evans Golf Course, Morton Grove: This fun, satisfying 5,691-yard, 18-hole par-71 course (pictured above) is located in the suburb of Morton Grove. A hidden gem on the Northside that offers a quality golf experience for all skill levels, you’ll enjoy a fun and relaxed round whether you are in the mood for nine or 18 holes.
IN THE EARLY PART OF THE 20TH CENTURY, Chicago city planners made a point of promoting and protecting green space in the city and surrounding suburbs. This green space started in the form of city parks and has expanded today into a much larger network that includes golf courses under the Forest Preserve District of Cook County.
The mission of the Forest Preserve District remains the same as it was 100 years ago: “To acquire, restore and manage lands for the purpose of protecting and preserving public open space with its natural wonders, significant prairies, forests, wetlands, rivers, streams, and other landscapes with all of its associated wildlife, in a natural state for the education, pleasure and recreation of the public now and in the future.”
Under this mission, the Forest Preserve District set aside 11 green spaces devoted to the game of golf, thus creating Forest Preserve Golf, with opportunities running the gamut from championship-level layouts to beginner-friendly courses to driving ranges and mini golf, all with a goal of ecological balance through sustainability and restoration.
Next time you are in Chicagoland, stop by one of the Forest Preserve facilities, and check out for a little while from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Here are five of the most popular locations:
George W. Dunne National Golf Course
Oak Forest
George W. Dunne National, located in suburban Oak Forest, has been recognized by Golf Digest as one of the top public courses in the state. Here, players find well-conditioned bent grass fairways and greens. Whether you play from the tips or are a beginner, you’ll enjoy the challenging terrain that Dunne National offers. Eight lakes, which come into play on 11 holes, tree-lined fairways, and an abundance of wildlife help make the experience a memorable one.
Highland Woods Golf Course
Hoffman Estates
A challenging course, Highland Woods’ generous fairways are countered by 52 sand traps strategically placed throughout its rolling hills and tree-lined fairways. The course offers three sets of tees with water coming into play on six of the 18 holes
Joe Louis “The Champ” Golf Course
Riverdale
Joe Louis “The Champ,” named after prize fighter Joe Louis, is a tournament favorite because of its championship layout. A challenging course to begin with, the signature 614-yard, par-five 7th hole (the second longest par-five in the Chicagoland area) as well as “The Champ’s” large undulating greens, raise the stakes. Joe Louis has three sets of tees, 52 sand traps, and occasional water hazards that come in play.
Indian Boundary Golf Course
Chicago
Redesigned in 2003 by the late, Illinois-based golf course architect Dick Nugent, Indian Boundary is a track suited for all levels of play. With its heavily wooded layout and strategically placed water and sand, the course is both scenic and challenging. Conveniently located on Chicago’s northwest side, Indian Boundary is Forest Preserve Golf’s most popular course.
