Opened in 1986, McCormick Woods was the first of the triumvirate of upscale public courses we now enjoy in the heart of the Kitsap Peninsula -- it lies east of Seattle by ferry, and north of Tacoma via the Narrows Bridge.  Carved through towering forest, this Jack Frei design is the center-piece of an upscale residential community that -- while surrounding many holes -- is set back far enough to rarely be in play.  However, after your round at McCormick Woods, you may decide to engage a realtor and start house-hunting yourself.  The course is that good.

Laid out across typically rolling Kitsap terrain, holes range from flat to roller-coaster!  And it's that variety that makes McCormick Woods so enjoyable.  The first time golfer never knows what awaits as he or she approaches the next tee or the next shot -- it's a bit of drama and whimsy that will hold your attention, from the first tee to the final putt.  Of course, the geography (including views of Mt. Rainier) isn't all that will hold your attention!  McCormick Woods is a challenging track with water in play on ten holes, and though most landing areas are generous, straying too far afield will cause you to get acquainted with the forest primeval. 

Back on the lush fairways, McCormick Woods provides wonderful green complexes with infinite short game challenges.  There is a huge variety of sand and grass bunkers, as well as false-front greens that will demand proper club selection.  Most putting surfaces are large and undulating with many options for pin placement.  But be warned, two putts are far from assured here, so a few extra minutes spent on the practice green are likely to pay dividends out on the course. 

To get you ready for the challenge ahead, McCormick Woods offers a generous grass practice range and chipping area, and a huge putting green.  Crowning the course, and surrounding Kitsap Peninsula forest land, is a venerable restaurant that was recently re-christened the Club-house Grill.  The menu offered is way beyond typical golf course fare -- though you will find terrific soups, salads, and sandwiches. There is also a lunch and dinner menu featuring fresh local seafood, pasta, and steaks --served with the kind of aplomb you'd never expect at most golf courses.  But that's just it, McCormick Woods is not "just another golf course."  It's an experience everyone should try, you won't regret it!

McCormick Woods...by the numbers

      Par: 72

      Cost:  $-$$ (daytime), $ (twilight)