A world renown golf course architect said it best….
“I wouldn’t change a thing, even if I wanted to, they wouldn’t let me build a course like this today. It’s a classic.” ~ Pete Dye
The Golf Course at Glen Echo delivers an unparalleled, one-of-a-kind experience that can be found no other place. It is arguably the most historic course west of the Mississippi. Opening in 1901, Glen Echo has hosted a multitude of amateur and professional tournaments, including the legendary 1904 Olympic Golf Championship. At no other golf course in the world can you walk in the footsteps of Olympic athletes and only Glen Echo flies the Olympic flag. In its 100+ years, the course has seen numerous renovations. Through them all, membership has meticulously preserved the unique heritage of the original, world-class design by 1896 U.S. Open Champion Jim Foulis. Most of the holes are fundamentally the same as the day the club opened. Simply put, the Glen Echo golf course is a best of both worlds experience; a historic layout mixed perfectly with modern day features and amenities.
It is a testament to one of the most talented and respected golf superintendents in the country. With three standard sets of tees, the course will fairly challenge players of all skill levels. Plus, we have not forgotten the little ones. Glen Echo also has US Kids Junior Tees to accommodate families with children of any age. No matter where you tee off, accuracy is essential. You will need to safely navigate undulating fairways, water hazards and sand traps. Once on the green, your game will truly be tested. Birdies can be had, but be cautious. Poor decisions, errant shots and misjudged putts will lead to a bogey or worse. It is a golf course you never tire of playing. Every round is distinctive and memorable; wrapped in a backdrop of picturesque beauty. Before you head out, make sure to visit one or all of our practice facilities.
Whether you are interested in joining a country club or planning a golf outing (Charitable, Corporate, Social), our friendly members and staff are confident the authentic Glen Echo experience will exceed your expectations.
Fulfilling our commitment to maintaining a historic golf course with modern amenities, Glen Echo Country Club has built a multipurpose practice facility. The three distinct practice areas include a Driving Range, Chipping & Short Game Range, and Putting Green. All three mimic the conditions of the golf course, providing a true test whether you are working on your game or simply warming up before a round.
The zoysia grass Driving Range is the same you find throughout the tee boxes and fairways of the golf course. The area provides players an opportunity to practice hitting every club in their bag and it is long enough to accommodate the biggest hitters. Yardage targets helps you dial in your distance and accuracy.
The Chipping & Short Game Range is very popular with our members. There is a reason why teaching professionals emphasize the importance of a proficient short game. It is clear with players of every skill level that an improved short game leads to lower scores. This area includes a practice chipping green, bunker, and five separate yardage targets. It is the perfect spot to practice short approaches, pitch shots, chips to gimmie range and sand saves. Shots are restricted to approximately 125 yards.
Our practice Putting Green is located next to the Golf Shop. It is certainly a great place to groove a confident putting stroke and is a must stop for players prior to a round. The practice green is maintained exactly as every other green on the property and simulates the variety of putting situations you are likely to experience on the golf course. As a rule, the greens are fast; some say “lightning” fast. We highly recommend you practice downhill putts in case you break the Glen Echo golden-rule and find yourself above the hole.
Glen Echo has a full staff of teaching professionals that can help improve any facet of your golf game. Our course and modern practice facilities support the value and enjoyment of all golf lessons.