Otter Creek Golf Course
Ankeny, Iowa
Otter Creek Golf Course Scorecard
| Front 9 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | OUT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 4 | 4 | 5 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 36 |
| Black | 374 | 389 | 552 | 203 | 542 | 181 | 467 | 397 | 417 | 3,522 |
| Tan | 347 | 369 | 520 | 183 | 523 | 158 | 444 | 379 | 398 | 3,321 |
| Yellow_(Men) | 330 | 349 | 460 | 169 | 502 | 149 | 424 | 364 | 375 | 3,122 |
| White | 350 | 150 | 439 | 375 | 469 | 354 | 120 | 385 | 478 | 3,120 |
| GREEN | 287 | 307 | 430 | 144 | 437 | 132 | 367 | 316 | 314 | 2,734 |
| Handicap | 9 | 7 | 11 | 15 | 13 | 17 | 1 | 5 | 3 | — |
| Back 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | IN | TOT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Par | 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 35 | 71 |
| Black | 408 | 553 | 431 | 154 | 431 | 196 | 391 | 409 | 400 | 3,373 | 6,895 |
| Tan | 397 | 531 | 414 | 138 | 409 | 171 | 374 | 389 | 377 | 3,200 | 6,521 |
| Yellow_(Men) | 381 | 515 | 387 | 121 | 386 | 152 | 351 | 369 | 357 | 3,019 | 6,141 |
| White | 374 | 504 | 348 | 145 | 409 | 307 | 439 | 170 | 318 | 3,014 | 6,134 |
| GREEN | 334 | 440 | 308 | 102 | 357 | 131 | 316 | 329 | 309 | 2,626 | 5,360 |
| Handicap | 8 | 14 | 2 | 18 | 4 | 16 | 12 | 6 | 10 | — | — |
Tees, Slope & Course Rating
| Tee | Slope | Course Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Black | 126 | 73.7 |
| Tan | 125 | 71.1 |
| Yellow (Men) | 117 | 68.4 |
| White | 112 | 70.2 |
| GREEN | 117 | 70.2 |
Otter Creek Golf Course by the Numbers
Otter Creek Golf Course plays to a par of 71 and measures 6,895 yards from the black tees (5,360 yards from the green tees). The layout features 4 par-3s, 11 par-4s and 3 par-5s. The number-one handicap hole is the par-4 7th — statistically the toughest hole on the course, while the 13th rates as the most forgiving. The longest test is the 11th, stretching 553 yards from the tips, and the shortest is the 13th at 154 yards.
About Otter Creek Golf Course
Otter Creek Golf Course is an 18-hole layout that challenges golfers with a par of 71 and yardage ranging from 5,360 to 6,895. Players can choose from several tee options, including Black, Tan, and Yellow for men, and White and Green for women, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all skill levels. The course features well-maintained greens, generous fairways, and a few tricky hazards that will require precise club selection. With a slope rating catering to both novice and seasoned golfers, Otter Creek offers a nice mix of straightforward and strategically demanding holes.
What to Expect
When playing Otter Creek, expect a forgiving layout that accommodates a range of handicaps, but don't be fooled—some holes can surprise you with their complexity. The key is to focus on course management, especially on the par-3s and the challenging bentgrass greens. Be mindful of early morning dew; it can affect your putting and approach shots. Bring a mix of clubs to navigate its diverse challenges, and you'll find that a well-placed drive can set you up for a rewarding round.
Fun Fact
Did you know that Otter Creek has hosted several notable amateur tournaments, showcasing some of the best local golfing talent in Iowa? It's a testament to how this course plays a vibrant role in the state's golf scene.
About Ankeny
Ankeny, Iowa, is a vibrant suburb just north of Des Moines, known for its friendly atmosphere and strong community spirit. With numerous parks, a growing array of restaurants, and local shops, it offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and small-town charm. Plus, it serves as a great jumping-off point for exploring the broader Des Moines area.
Nearby Attractions
After your round, consider grabbing a bite at the nearby Ankeny Diner, known for its hearty breakfasts and classic diner fare. If you’re in the mood for shopping, the Prairie Trail area offers a variety of shops and cafes to explore. For a longer stay, check out the Holiday Inn Express, which provides comfortable accommodations just a short drive from the course.