Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club, Southern Pines, North Carolina - a Classic Donald Ross Golf Course Designed for Club Members and Guests

The Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club is a Donald Ross golf course that is rare among modern golf clubs. The 18 holes on the course are still in the exact same positions, with the same hole numbers as when the course opened in 1921.

The course is nestled in the fragrant pine forests of North Carolina and is considered a throwback to golf when it was pure and simple; or, as some would describe Mid Pines, "pure Donald Ross,'' because it conforms to the land where it was built. There are few forced carries found on the course, and no contrived holes.

It's been written that Mid Pines was never intended as a daunting task to the finest players competing under championship conditions. Rather, Mid Pines was intended simply as a fun course with adequate challenge for members and guests of a private club and resort. Even so, the course still played host to the 2002 USGA Senior Women's Amateur Championship.

Mid Pines is a bit hillier and shorter than its sister course, Pine Needles. The par-72 course plays to a modest 6,528 yards from the longest tees, with a USGA rating of 71.0 and a slope rating of 126. Several improvements and renovations have been made over the years, such as leveling the tees, rebuilding and cleaning a pond, and improving the irrigation and drainage system. The greens are still somewhat on the small size, however, especially when compared to those found on many modern courses, and tend to be undulating.

Some of the most noteworthy holes on the course include its collection of par-3s, which are also some of its most popular holes. Hole No. 2, in particular, is one of the most photographed. The hole plays to 178 yards from the longest tees, but also plays uphill to an elevated green that makes for a very difficult target to hit.

Another of the noteworthy par-3 holes is No. 13. The hole plays to a lengthy 223 yards from the Blue tees, and 197 yards from the Whites. Adding to the difficulty, the green is narrow and well-bunkered.

Some other noteworthy holes include No. 10, a par-5 that plays to 514 yards from the back tees. Considered one of the most beautiful holes on the course, the tee shot calls for a drive up and over a ridge to a fairway that features a number of bunkers.

The finishing hole at Mid Pines is the one many golfer most often remember. The par-4 plays to 411 yards from the back tees and is a slight dogleg left, with the approach shot uphill to the green. What's most noteworthy about the hole is the stunning sight of the hotel sitting in the background.

There are practice facilities and a number of instructional options available at Mid Pines and Pine Needles, as well as a Pro Shop. Accommodations are also available at the Mid Pines Inn, which features room with an Old South charm. Casual dining and drinks are available at Pop's Lounge and Cosgroves, while the Terrace and Dining Room offers more elegant dining.