Smugglers Notch - Fox Run reviews
14
0
Disc Golf Nirvana Surrounded By Stunning Green Mountains - An Easy Bucket List Course
Reviewed:
Played on:Jul 13, 2024
Played the course:once
Pros:
Smuggler's Notch – Fox Run Meadows is a championship-level 18-hole course that plays through rolling Vermont meadows while providing immaculate views of the surrounding green mountains the state is so well known for. You may be familiar with this course due to its annual presence on pro tour coverage for the Green Mountain Challenge, as well as being host to the final rounds of the 2018 and 2023 World Championships. This course has been among the top-rated courses in the world on UDisc, including being rated at #7 for two straight years now. That's high praise, and just as with Brewster Ridge across the road, it is easy to see why this course is so loved once you're there in person.
Location of Fox Run is just of route 108, up Edward's Road; you'll see a sign to the disc golf center at the turn off the highway. At the next intersection, you'll take a right, where you'll see the pro shop and parking on the right side of the road. Hole 1's tee and 18's fairway and green will be to your left, making for some fun spectating opportunities from the pro shop and seating/parking areas. Smuggler's Notch is a year-round resort, so on the way to the disc golf center, you may also run into camping areas, pools, and ski areas depending on which direction you come from. If you are looking to course bag, I have good news for you, because Smuggler's Notch is also home to Brewster Ridge, a wooded 18-hole course that is rated even higher than Fox Run. Outside of that, Smugg's is about 45 minutes from Burlington and 24 from the nearest disc golf course. That being said, these courses will keep you busy for the better part of a day, and they also use tee time reservations which you can do online. I recommend booking ahead, as my friends and I were surrounded by other groups during our 2:10pm reservation for Brewster on a Saturday in July, though Fox Run was empty for our round at 5.
Amenities at the Pro Shop area include port-o-potties in the parking lot, water in the shop (free refills for your own bottle), and snacks/beverages for sale, along with discs and other souvenirs. There isn't much around the area besides resort restaurants, so I would suggest getting food and gas before you drive out if you're coming from farther away. Other than that, everything you could ask for is present.
Course Equipment is great overall at Fox Run. The baskets are Chainstar Pros just like on Brewster and look brand new. The signage is great, with tee signs including par, distances, a graphic showing the hole layout and tee locations, and the next hole direction. The tee pads for the Gold tees are large turf tees that were very nice to throw from, with the white tees being shorter turf tees as well. Red tees were natural as of our round here, but many holes have white and red sharing tees, so this is somewhat limited. There's also plenty of next-tee signage as well to keep you from getting lost, especially on the walk to and from the back section of the course. There are also plenty of sitting opportunities as well as bridges where needed, really rounding out a nice equipment setup for the course.
Course Design at Fox Run Meadows is spoiled in the name, as the main features are fields, hills, and OB/wild grass areas, with some woods sprinkled in. The course is separated into two areas: the front (holes 1-3 and 13-18) which has a mix of woods and more open fairways, and the back (4-12) which plays around a freshwater reservoir. There's a nice mix of elevation throughout, and plenty of OB to keep things challenging. A perfect complement to Brewster Ridge, Fox Run is a long, open course that will provide you with plenty of fun shots as well as amazing views of the surrounding green mountains.
Shot-Shaping will be critical on just about every hole at Fox Run, though the openness of the course allows for some flexibility. Holes 3, 5, 13, and 17 have the clearest favoritism to righthand backhand throwing players, while holes 6, 8, and 15 are the most obvious forehand or lefty backhand holes. That being said, it's not like the other holes don't have particular shot requirements, as many are either par 4 or 5s, or have multiple line options that come with their own difficulties. Hole 1, for example, has a pretty straightforward straight-to-left ending opening shot from the Gold/Blue tee, but then the basket sits in the back-right corner of the fairway, requiring a forehand or touchy understable backhand to get a birdie chance. Hole 16 requires a dead straight shot to start, and then has a gap into the open second half of the hole that could require a turnover, hyzer, or S-shot depending on where you land in the tunnel. Some par 3s like 9 and 10 can be attacked with a couple of strategies, but have obstacles like tree lines, OB, or a cliff in the case of 10 to keep in mind when deciding on a straight shot or something more bendy. All in all, while there are options on many holes, your placement of shots and accuracy in landing zones is critical on every hole.
Openess/Woods heavily leans towards open, but a couple of holes do utilize those Vermont woods. Holes 3, 11, 13, and 14 have guarded greens as the fairways on each lead you into wood lines. Hole 15 is the sole completely wooded hole, with a tight fairway leading to a small green after a right bend. Hole 16 starts with a tight straight shot through the woods before giving you breathing room in the second half. Everything else is mainly open, with wood line and OB shaping being the main obstacles to navigate.
Distances vary greatly at Fox Run. From the gold tees, you will have holes that range from 250 feet on hole 2 to the mammoth 1,265-foot hole 7. The course is a long one, with the average hole distance being over 500 feet. This includes three par 4s that are over 700 feet long and multiple par 3s over 400 feet. Elevation plays a role in some of those situations, but the main takeaway is that this is a long course, and you'll be grabbing drivers a lot. The different tees really add to the potential variance in distances, especially from round to round, as the red tees play 4,630 feet in total and each level up increasing 1,000 to 1,500 feet in length. The distances are similar for each tee option, relatively speaking; hole 7 is the longest hole from all 4 options, for instance.
Elevation isn't as prominent on this course compared to Brewster Ridge, but still packs a punch in spots. There are plenty of downhill shots, with holes 5, 9, 13, 17, and 18 all having significant downward slopes on part of or all of their fairways. Uphill shots aren't as frequent, but holes 1, 3, and 16 either have gradual hills or upward elevation on part of the hole. Other holes like 10 and 14 have smaller changes in elevation like slight valleys or sloped greens that will make landing in a good spot without rolling trickier. The lack of upward elevation is probably the part that's most lacking, but as a fan of downhill shots, I personally don't mind.
Difficulty level at Fox Run runs the gamut thanks to four options for tees. The gold tees are going to give you championship-level golf, while the reds are accessible enough that new players aren't going to get discouraged. Just about everyone will be able to find a level that works for them here.
Course Highlights can be a decently long list, as many holes stand out. Hole 18 has to be one of the best holes anywhere in terms of enjoyment and backdrop, with a fun but tough downhill shot followed by a second drive around or under a large tree to a difficult green. Hole 1 is also a great start, with a wildgrass carry followed by an uphill approach with just enough trees to keep you honest. Hole 5 is a very fun downhill shot to a tight gap in the wood line, followed by a dangerous green with the reservoir right behind the basket. Hole 7 is a true test of your distance, with a long fairway that's been tightened up since 2018 worlds by the looks of it (likely due to private property on the other side of the wood line). The course lives up to its coverage on the pro tour – if it looks like a stand-out hole of disc golf on YouTube to you, chances are it lives up to that name in person.
Setting/Aesthetic also deserves a mention. I know I'm a midwestern boy and might get easily impressed, but this has to be the most beautiful backdrop for a round of disc golf I have seen so far after playing over 150 courses. The surrounding green mountains are a perfect setting, and you feel like you're on an island of meadows during your round. I'm sure other courses will eventually top Fox Run for me in this regard, but this one sets the bar high.
Location of Fox Run is just of route 108, up Edward's Road; you'll see a sign to the disc golf center at the turn off the highway. At the next intersection, you'll take a right, where you'll see the pro shop and parking on the right side of the road. Hole 1's tee and 18's fairway and green will be to your left, making for some fun spectating opportunities from the pro shop and seating/parking areas. Smuggler's Notch is a year-round resort, so on the way to the disc golf center, you may also run into camping areas, pools, and ski areas depending on which direction you come from. If you are looking to course bag, I have good news for you, because Smuggler's Notch is also home to Brewster Ridge, a wooded 18-hole course that is rated even higher than Fox Run. Outside of that, Smugg's is about 45 minutes from Burlington and 24 from the nearest disc golf course. That being said, these courses will keep you busy for the better part of a day, and they also use tee time reservations which you can do online. I recommend booking ahead, as my friends and I were surrounded by other groups during our 2:10pm reservation for Brewster on a Saturday in July, though Fox Run was empty for our round at 5.
Amenities at the Pro Shop area include port-o-potties in the parking lot, water in the shop (free refills for your own bottle), and snacks/beverages for sale, along with discs and other souvenirs. There isn't much around the area besides resort restaurants, so I would suggest getting food and gas before you drive out if you're coming from farther away. Other than that, everything you could ask for is present.
Course Equipment is great overall at Fox Run. The baskets are Chainstar Pros just like on Brewster and look brand new. The signage is great, with tee signs including par, distances, a graphic showing the hole layout and tee locations, and the next hole direction. The tee pads for the Gold tees are large turf tees that were very nice to throw from, with the white tees being shorter turf tees as well. Red tees were natural as of our round here, but many holes have white and red sharing tees, so this is somewhat limited. There's also plenty of next-tee signage as well to keep you from getting lost, especially on the walk to and from the back section of the course. There are also plenty of sitting opportunities as well as bridges where needed, really rounding out a nice equipment setup for the course.
Course Design at Fox Run Meadows is spoiled in the name, as the main features are fields, hills, and OB/wild grass areas, with some woods sprinkled in. The course is separated into two areas: the front (holes 1-3 and 13-18) which has a mix of woods and more open fairways, and the back (4-12) which plays around a freshwater reservoir. There's a nice mix of elevation throughout, and plenty of OB to keep things challenging. A perfect complement to Brewster Ridge, Fox Run is a long, open course that will provide you with plenty of fun shots as well as amazing views of the surrounding green mountains.
Shot-Shaping will be critical on just about every hole at Fox Run, though the openness of the course allows for some flexibility. Holes 3, 5, 13, and 17 have the clearest favoritism to righthand backhand throwing players, while holes 6, 8, and 15 are the most obvious forehand or lefty backhand holes. That being said, it's not like the other holes don't have particular shot requirements, as many are either par 4 or 5s, or have multiple line options that come with their own difficulties. Hole 1, for example, has a pretty straightforward straight-to-left ending opening shot from the Gold/Blue tee, but then the basket sits in the back-right corner of the fairway, requiring a forehand or touchy understable backhand to get a birdie chance. Hole 16 requires a dead straight shot to start, and then has a gap into the open second half of the hole that could require a turnover, hyzer, or S-shot depending on where you land in the tunnel. Some par 3s like 9 and 10 can be attacked with a couple of strategies, but have obstacles like tree lines, OB, or a cliff in the case of 10 to keep in mind when deciding on a straight shot or something more bendy. All in all, while there are options on many holes, your placement of shots and accuracy in landing zones is critical on every hole.
Openess/Woods heavily leans towards open, but a couple of holes do utilize those Vermont woods. Holes 3, 11, 13, and 14 have guarded greens as the fairways on each lead you into wood lines. Hole 15 is the sole completely wooded hole, with a tight fairway leading to a small green after a right bend. Hole 16 starts with a tight straight shot through the woods before giving you breathing room in the second half. Everything else is mainly open, with wood line and OB shaping being the main obstacles to navigate.
Distances vary greatly at Fox Run. From the gold tees, you will have holes that range from 250 feet on hole 2 to the mammoth 1,265-foot hole 7. The course is a long one, with the average hole distance being over 500 feet. This includes three par 4s that are over 700 feet long and multiple par 3s over 400 feet. Elevation plays a role in some of those situations, but the main takeaway is that this is a long course, and you'll be grabbing drivers a lot. The different tees really add to the potential variance in distances, especially from round to round, as the red tees play 4,630 feet in total and each level up increasing 1,000 to 1,500 feet in length. The distances are similar for each tee option, relatively speaking; hole 7 is the longest hole from all 4 options, for instance.
Elevation isn't as prominent on this course compared to Brewster Ridge, but still packs a punch in spots. There are plenty of downhill shots, with holes 5, 9, 13, 17, and 18 all having significant downward slopes on part of or all of their fairways. Uphill shots aren't as frequent, but holes 1, 3, and 16 either have gradual hills or upward elevation on part of the hole. Other holes like 10 and 14 have smaller changes in elevation like slight valleys or sloped greens that will make landing in a good spot without rolling trickier. The lack of upward elevation is probably the part that's most lacking, but as a fan of downhill shots, I personally don't mind.
Difficulty level at Fox Run runs the gamut thanks to four options for tees. The gold tees are going to give you championship-level golf, while the reds are accessible enough that new players aren't going to get discouraged. Just about everyone will be able to find a level that works for them here.
Course Highlights can be a decently long list, as many holes stand out. Hole 18 has to be one of the best holes anywhere in terms of enjoyment and backdrop, with a fun but tough downhill shot followed by a second drive around or under a large tree to a difficult green. Hole 1 is also a great start, with a wildgrass carry followed by an uphill approach with just enough trees to keep you honest. Hole 5 is a very fun downhill shot to a tight gap in the wood line, followed by a dangerous green with the reservoir right behind the basket. Hole 7 is a true test of your distance, with a long fairway that's been tightened up since 2018 worlds by the looks of it (likely due to private property on the other side of the wood line). The course lives up to its coverage on the pro tour – if it looks like a stand-out hole of disc golf on YouTube to you, chances are it lives up to that name in person.
Setting/Aesthetic also deserves a mention. I know I'm a midwestern boy and might get easily impressed, but this has to be the most beautiful backdrop for a round of disc golf I have seen so far after playing over 150 courses. The surrounding green mountains are a perfect setting, and you feel like you're on an island of meadows during your round. I'm sure other courses will eventually top Fox Run for me in this regard, but this one sets the bar high.
Cons:
Artificial OB is a sticking point for many folks, and it is everywhere on this course. DGCR states that a lot of the OB areas are sensitive wetland spots, and other spots are clearly to separate fairway boundaries, though no fairways play close enough to create an issue. I get the argument that OB lines can create a sense of artificialness, and if used improperly they can feel unnecessarily limiting or gimmicky. Having said that, I feel like the OB here is purposeful enough that it doesn't call too much attention to itself and doesn't create unnecessary islands or other challenges for poops and giggles like other courses I have played (I didn't say Eagles Crossing, you're the one that bought that up).
Transitions from the front and back sections is very long, being probably between 800 to 900 feet of extra walking one way. These transitions are well-marked and include plenty of bridges (some even having chicken wire) to keep things from getting muddy. I thought the middle third of the course was great and well-designed, so I think the hike is worth it.
Course Length, to expand on the previous con, will have you getting plenty of steps. While the elevation isn't as intense as with Brewster Ridge, there are still a few floors worth of variance, and you're going to certainly meet any daily step goal you may have in place. Be sure to limber up a bit before your round, especially if you're playing both courses back to back. You also won't get much of an opportunity to hit the parking lot before the end of the round, so plan accordingly.
Teepads seem to have gotten improvements since previous reviews, but the red tees are still natural when not shared with the white option. Some of the shorter tees that have turf are on the shorter side, especially compared to the Golds. As one of my buddies said when someone else mentioned this, "Those tees aren't on TV". Brewster Ridge is in the middle of improving their red tees, so hopefully Fox Run is next up!
Pay To Play is an automatic turn-off for many players, so keep in mind Fox Run is private and costs money just like Brewster across the road. One round costs $10 on a weekday and $12 over the weekend when reserving a tee time online, something I recommend doing to avoid hiccups you may run into with just showing up. Some courses rub me the wrong way with how much they charge compared to the disc golf they provide, and Fox Run is absolutely not one of those courses. For the cost of one round at Eagles Crossing (why do you keep bringing that course up?), you can get a round on each of these courses and have money left over for a souvenir. Can't beat that considering the level of courses here, and how well they are maintained – I'm pretty sure Fox Run is consistently immaculate from what I'm reading online.
Crowds can lead to longer rounds, even with tee times. This can be hit and miss though. Our round on Brewster in a group of 3 took 2.5 hours due to being backed up a bit. Fox Run was empty by the time we hit our tee time, and with me and one other, we were done in under two hours easily.
Transitions from the front and back sections is very long, being probably between 800 to 900 feet of extra walking one way. These transitions are well-marked and include plenty of bridges (some even having chicken wire) to keep things from getting muddy. I thought the middle third of the course was great and well-designed, so I think the hike is worth it.
Course Length, to expand on the previous con, will have you getting plenty of steps. While the elevation isn't as intense as with Brewster Ridge, there are still a few floors worth of variance, and you're going to certainly meet any daily step goal you may have in place. Be sure to limber up a bit before your round, especially if you're playing both courses back to back. You also won't get much of an opportunity to hit the parking lot before the end of the round, so plan accordingly.
Teepads seem to have gotten improvements since previous reviews, but the red tees are still natural when not shared with the white option. Some of the shorter tees that have turf are on the shorter side, especially compared to the Golds. As one of my buddies said when someone else mentioned this, "Those tees aren't on TV". Brewster Ridge is in the middle of improving their red tees, so hopefully Fox Run is next up!
Pay To Play is an automatic turn-off for many players, so keep in mind Fox Run is private and costs money just like Brewster across the road. One round costs $10 on a weekday and $12 over the weekend when reserving a tee time online, something I recommend doing to avoid hiccups you may run into with just showing up. Some courses rub me the wrong way with how much they charge compared to the disc golf they provide, and Fox Run is absolutely not one of those courses. For the cost of one round at Eagles Crossing (why do you keep bringing that course up?), you can get a round on each of these courses and have money left over for a souvenir. Can't beat that considering the level of courses here, and how well they are maintained – I'm pretty sure Fox Run is consistently immaculate from what I'm reading online.
Crowds can lead to longer rounds, even with tee times. This can be hit and miss though. Our round on Brewster in a group of 3 took 2.5 hours due to being backed up a bit. Fox Run was empty by the time we hit our tee time, and with me and one other, we were done in under two hours easily.
Other Thoughts:
2018 Worlds on Jomez/Central Coast was my introduction to professional disc golf, and to this day Fox Run Meadows stands out to me as one of the most picturesque and standout courses featured on the tour when viewing on YouTube. I was worried that I was putting this course, as well as Brewster Ridge, on a bit of a pedestal it may not be able to live up to. I'm happy to have been wrong about that, as this course is everything you see on YouTube and more.
Having this course and Brewster Ridge within 200 feet of each other is silly. Smuggler's Notch, Jeff Spring, and Steve Brinster really knocked it out of the park with this course, and to have two courses of this caliber in one complex is hard to believe even after seeing and experiencing both. Do other multi-course complexes exist that can compete with Smugg's? Maybe, but I can't think of any off the top of my head, especially with Selah Ranch having been closed down.
I get why Brewster Ridge is rated higher on DGCR as well as UDisc, as it does stand out more from a pure design perspective. That being said, Fox Run is more than deserving of being right up there on rating. It's a perfect complement to the tight fairways that reside across the road, with amazing views, open but tough fairways, and several holes that would be the highlight hole of most other courses. You even get a taste of the woods on this course too, with 15 and 16 keeping you on your toes after having enjoyed more open shots for much of the course to that point. Fox Run really has a bit of everything, and I have a hard time thinking of fairway shapes or challenges that are missing from this course when you look at the full package.
I encourage folks to not let the OB lines distract you too much from the round of disc golf Fox Run provides, as I really think they serve a purpose well. Hopefully, the red tees will get improvements soon, which will really complete the course from an equipment perspective. It's impressive how well-kept this course is, and I'm sure they keep it at that level all season as well. The Green Mountain Challenge isn't for a while, and yet I would have considered the course tournament-ready during my round.
My day at Smuggler's Notch is a disc golf core memory for me, and I recommend that all players add this place to their bucket list. The two courses combined are everything you can ask for in a day of chucking plastic and paying $24 for both courses felt like an absolute steal. If I lived nearby, I'd be budgeting for a season pass just to be able to play all of the different combinations these courses provide. They're accessible to all difficulties, and really excel in just about every way you can think of.
Fox Run Meadows is truly a special course, and while it may be talked about a lot in reference to being a compliment to Brewster Ridge, it really is an elite course on its own merit. The variety of lines required is exceptional. The individual holes make for plenty of memorable moments. And that green mountain backdrop is second to none.
I thought about this rating for a long time, but that feels silly in retrospect. Fox Run Meadows is an easy 5/5 for me and deserves the love it gets and more. If you want a perfect day of disc golf, Smuggler's Notch is the destination for you.
Having this course and Brewster Ridge within 200 feet of each other is silly. Smuggler's Notch, Jeff Spring, and Steve Brinster really knocked it out of the park with this course, and to have two courses of this caliber in one complex is hard to believe even after seeing and experiencing both. Do other multi-course complexes exist that can compete with Smugg's? Maybe, but I can't think of any off the top of my head, especially with Selah Ranch having been closed down.
I get why Brewster Ridge is rated higher on DGCR as well as UDisc, as it does stand out more from a pure design perspective. That being said, Fox Run is more than deserving of being right up there on rating. It's a perfect complement to the tight fairways that reside across the road, with amazing views, open but tough fairways, and several holes that would be the highlight hole of most other courses. You even get a taste of the woods on this course too, with 15 and 16 keeping you on your toes after having enjoyed more open shots for much of the course to that point. Fox Run really has a bit of everything, and I have a hard time thinking of fairway shapes or challenges that are missing from this course when you look at the full package.
I encourage folks to not let the OB lines distract you too much from the round of disc golf Fox Run provides, as I really think they serve a purpose well. Hopefully, the red tees will get improvements soon, which will really complete the course from an equipment perspective. It's impressive how well-kept this course is, and I'm sure they keep it at that level all season as well. The Green Mountain Challenge isn't for a while, and yet I would have considered the course tournament-ready during my round.
My day at Smuggler's Notch is a disc golf core memory for me, and I recommend that all players add this place to their bucket list. The two courses combined are everything you can ask for in a day of chucking plastic and paying $24 for both courses felt like an absolute steal. If I lived nearby, I'd be budgeting for a season pass just to be able to play all of the different combinations these courses provide. They're accessible to all difficulties, and really excel in just about every way you can think of.
Fox Run Meadows is truly a special course, and while it may be talked about a lot in reference to being a compliment to Brewster Ridge, it really is an elite course on its own merit. The variety of lines required is exceptional. The individual holes make for plenty of memorable moments. And that green mountain backdrop is second to none.
I thought about this rating for a long time, but that feels silly in retrospect. Fox Run Meadows is an easy 5/5 for me and deserves the love it gets and more. If you want a perfect day of disc golf, Smuggler's Notch is the destination for you.
19
1
Everything You Think It’s Gonna Be 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Jun 3, 2022
Played the course:once
Pros:
+ All the iconic views from the Green Mountain Championship: the boardwalk from the first tee, alternate fairways leading up to the 4th basket with the rocks around it, the wall behind the 5th tee where the camera guys set up, the boulder behind the 9th basket, the amazing downhill view from the 18th tee
+ It's a resort, so the upkeep is immaculate (mowing, weed whacking, bridges, and all the disc golf equipment). On-site fully stocked pro shop, including snacks, craft beers and a patio overlooking the first tee and the entire 18th hole
+ Permanent signage on all four tees (Gold/Blue/White/Red), and they've kept the DGN tee signage from the Green Mountain Championship on the back tees
+ Some surprisingly short holes (#2, #6, #10) to balance off the big dogs like #4, #7, #8, #18
+ The differences among the tees allow you to match the course to your game. As an 800 rated older golfer, I played from the whites and felt like I had a well-earned +6. Even from the shorter tees there's plenty of challenge offered by the constant threat of OB and other hazards - and the blues would likely have been too much to handle (especially in the wind)
+ It's a resort, so the upkeep is immaculate (mowing, weed whacking, bridges, and all the disc golf equipment). On-site fully stocked pro shop, including snacks, craft beers and a patio overlooking the first tee and the entire 18th hole
+ Permanent signage on all four tees (Gold/Blue/White/Red), and they've kept the DGN tee signage from the Green Mountain Championship on the back tees
+ Some surprisingly short holes (#2, #6, #10) to balance off the big dogs like #4, #7, #8, #18
+ The differences among the tees allow you to match the course to your game. As an 800 rated older golfer, I played from the whites and felt like I had a well-earned +6. Even from the shorter tees there's plenty of challenge offered by the constant threat of OB and other hazards - and the blues would likely have been too much to handle (especially in the wind)
Cons:
- Except for #13, the white tees are just ground level rubber mats. They're in good shape, and the white tees have their own permanent signage. This "con" isn't about how they affect play as much as they affect the experience ("We don't get the nice teepads…"). So it's only a note about appearances - even playing from rubber tees, I thought the golf was a 5.0
Other Thoughts:
~ The Fox Run layout has two distinct areas, separated by a long walk out to #4 and back in to #13. The "front" half is much more wooded and has some elevation, especially on the two closing holes. The "back" half is the meadow that gives it the name. Open to the wind, with a lot of OB shaping your shots. By the time you come back in from #12, you may be surprised at how woodsy the course becomes
~ Expect long rounds. Even with the control of tee times, my round took 3+ hours. It's a long walk, and the tall grasses will slow things down hunting for discs
~ It's possible to play a shortened 9 hole loop using only the "front" section: 1-3, and 13 - 18. Plenty of great golf in those nine holes
~ Fun fact: you wouldn't know this from coverage, but the short dogleg #10 where you're throwing into a facing hillside has a huge cliff that begins about 15' behind the basket. If you penetrate the woodline behind the green, you might never see that disc again
~ Also on property: Brewster Ridge!
~ Expect long rounds. Even with the control of tee times, my round took 3+ hours. It's a long walk, and the tall grasses will slow things down hunting for discs
~ It's possible to play a shortened 9 hole loop using only the "front" section: 1-3, and 13 - 18. Plenty of great golf in those nine holes
~ Fun fact: you wouldn't know this from coverage, but the short dogleg #10 where you're throwing into a facing hillside has a huge cliff that begins about 15' behind the basket. If you penetrate the woodline behind the green, you might never see that disc again
~ Also on property: Brewster Ridge!
15
2
Iconic Vermont Beauty - Destination Worthy 2+ years
Reviewed:
Played on:Sep 20, 2016
Played the course:once
Pros:
Amazing facility that was still dressed up for the Green Mountain Championships. Multiple tees on every hole, fair and fun design. Elevation, OB Challenges and Iconic Vermont Beauty.
I used bullet points if you don't want to read the entire review.
Smuggler's Notch is destination disc golf
Smuggler's Notch provides TWO top rated courses in one location. Brewster Ridge plays through the woods while Fox Run covers the meadows and lightly wooded hills. There is true balance here: Yin and Yang, Wooded and Open, Fun and Funner! Since both courses are amazing and both courses offer multiple tees, Smuggler's Notch is a destination for disc golfers of all abilities.
My Favorite?
This course is a picture postcard for why Vermont is so amazingly beautiful. Vermont beauty alone makes this course one of my all time favorites. The fact there are two courses on site, adds to the experience. I think Fox Run is my favorite course at Smuggler's. However, it is very difficult to choose. It is like having to choose between Apple Pie and Chocolate Cake. Apple pie is my favorite pie, and Chocolate is my favorite cake. I think I found the Fox Run course to be more enjoyable as a solo player as it is very easy to navigate and you can see where you are throwing. It could have been the timing as I played this on a late fall afternoon and the fall colors were just beginning to show. It really was the perfect end to a perfect day of disc golfing in Vermont.
Four Sets of Tee on Every Hole!
I love the fact there are four tees on each and every hole. The long Gold tees have been developed and have tee signs. The Gold tees are made of turf placed over a bed of crushed rock. The Blue Tees were generally rubber mats. The shorter White and Red tees are marked by stakes. The Red tees are the shortest and would be perfect for new players or young kids. I am a weenie arm and I played from the Gold Tees and was able to get pars on nearly every hole. The big arms have plenty of opportunities to be searching for birdies or getting in trouble.
Signs and Navigation
Big beautiful full color tee signs on every tee. The signs clearly show all four tees, all the OB and the directions to the Next Tee. As long as you pay attention, you will not have any trouble following the layout. They have Fox Run maps in the tee shop as well. I was going to add that map to files, but can't seem to find it.
Its a big one
While it is a beautiful walk in the country, it is a long walk. This course is over 9,000 feet from the Golf Tees. There are some big bomber holes where you discs can fly free and far. The 1150 foot Hole 7 is a wonderful wide open hole from an elevated tee to a green across a small creek. When I played Fox Run, it was still set up for the Green Mountain Championships, which created OB islands and narrowing fairways. The OB areas definitely add more challenge to these more open holes.
Adam's Rib
Apparently, this course was originally part of Brewster Ridge as an extra 9. Nine holes play up and around a gently wooded slope. While the lines are not as tight as Brewster, you still have to avoid the trees and hit the fairways. Holes 5 -13 are on an area of land that was apparently once an executive ball golf course. They are long and open with elevation changes and they are beautifully manicured. There is a small pond that provides some extra challenge on Holes 5 and 12. Hole 18 is one of the most beautiful finishing holes in disc golf. A wonderful sweeping 775 foot down hill hole with OB road on the left and rough on the right.
On Site Pro Shop
There was a great variety of discs at the Pro Shop. They also had drinks and snacks. Staff was super friendly. They were very helpful and knowledgeable about the merchandise.
All 18 in a row
Once you head out on Hole 1, you do not return to the parking area and pro shop until you play the signature Hole 18. Although, you could play Hole 4 and walk to Hole 14 instead of playing the 9 holes in the meadow. But, why would you skip the most beautiful holes on the course?
Kids Carts and Strollers
The terrain is gentle enough for strollers and carts. Since there are four sets of tees on every hole, even younger players and newer players can play a round. However, it is a very large course and spread out over a large area. You will not return to parking area until after Hole 18 so prepare accordingly.
Restrooms
There were facilities at the pro shop. I don't recall seeing any other portables or facilities on the course. This is a very open course, but there are a couple of opportunities for privacy if needed.
Stop and Smell the Roses
If you spend all your time focused on the disc golf, you might miss the beauty of the mountains around you. Be sure to take a minute, take a deep breath, look around and enjoy the scenery.
Lost Discs
Unless you get unlucky on the holes near the water and send a stray shot into the pond, there is little chance to lose discs on this course. I suppose you could lose a disc on the meadow holes if you send a disc into the bordering rough.
I used bullet points if you don't want to read the entire review.
Smuggler's Notch is destination disc golf
Smuggler's Notch provides TWO top rated courses in one location. Brewster Ridge plays through the woods while Fox Run covers the meadows and lightly wooded hills. There is true balance here: Yin and Yang, Wooded and Open, Fun and Funner! Since both courses are amazing and both courses offer multiple tees, Smuggler's Notch is a destination for disc golfers of all abilities.
My Favorite?
This course is a picture postcard for why Vermont is so amazingly beautiful. Vermont beauty alone makes this course one of my all time favorites. The fact there are two courses on site, adds to the experience. I think Fox Run is my favorite course at Smuggler's. However, it is very difficult to choose. It is like having to choose between Apple Pie and Chocolate Cake. Apple pie is my favorite pie, and Chocolate is my favorite cake. I think I found the Fox Run course to be more enjoyable as a solo player as it is very easy to navigate and you can see where you are throwing. It could have been the timing as I played this on a late fall afternoon and the fall colors were just beginning to show. It really was the perfect end to a perfect day of disc golfing in Vermont.
Four Sets of Tee on Every Hole!
I love the fact there are four tees on each and every hole. The long Gold tees have been developed and have tee signs. The Gold tees are made of turf placed over a bed of crushed rock. The Blue Tees were generally rubber mats. The shorter White and Red tees are marked by stakes. The Red tees are the shortest and would be perfect for new players or young kids. I am a weenie arm and I played from the Gold Tees and was able to get pars on nearly every hole. The big arms have plenty of opportunities to be searching for birdies or getting in trouble.
Signs and Navigation
Big beautiful full color tee signs on every tee. The signs clearly show all four tees, all the OB and the directions to the Next Tee. As long as you pay attention, you will not have any trouble following the layout. They have Fox Run maps in the tee shop as well. I was going to add that map to files, but can't seem to find it.
Its a big one
While it is a beautiful walk in the country, it is a long walk. This course is over 9,000 feet from the Golf Tees. There are some big bomber holes where you discs can fly free and far. The 1150 foot Hole 7 is a wonderful wide open hole from an elevated tee to a green across a small creek. When I played Fox Run, it was still set up for the Green Mountain Championships, which created OB islands and narrowing fairways. The OB areas definitely add more challenge to these more open holes.
Adam's Rib
Apparently, this course was originally part of Brewster Ridge as an extra 9. Nine holes play up and around a gently wooded slope. While the lines are not as tight as Brewster, you still have to avoid the trees and hit the fairways. Holes 5 -13 are on an area of land that was apparently once an executive ball golf course. They are long and open with elevation changes and they are beautifully manicured. There is a small pond that provides some extra challenge on Holes 5 and 12. Hole 18 is one of the most beautiful finishing holes in disc golf. A wonderful sweeping 775 foot down hill hole with OB road on the left and rough on the right.
On Site Pro Shop
There was a great variety of discs at the Pro Shop. They also had drinks and snacks. Staff was super friendly. They were very helpful and knowledgeable about the merchandise.
All 18 in a row
Once you head out on Hole 1, you do not return to the parking area and pro shop until you play the signature Hole 18. Although, you could play Hole 4 and walk to Hole 14 instead of playing the 9 holes in the meadow. But, why would you skip the most beautiful holes on the course?
Kids Carts and Strollers
The terrain is gentle enough for strollers and carts. Since there are four sets of tees on every hole, even younger players and newer players can play a round. However, it is a very large course and spread out over a large area. You will not return to parking area until after Hole 18 so prepare accordingly.
Restrooms
There were facilities at the pro shop. I don't recall seeing any other portables or facilities on the course. This is a very open course, but there are a couple of opportunities for privacy if needed.
Stop and Smell the Roses
If you spend all your time focused on the disc golf, you might miss the beauty of the mountains around you. Be sure to take a minute, take a deep breath, look around and enjoy the scenery.
Lost Discs
Unless you get unlucky on the holes near the water and send a stray shot into the pond, there is little chance to lose discs on this course. I suppose you could lose a disc on the meadow holes if you send a disc into the bordering rough.
Cons:
Lots of walking
This course covers a lot of ground. In addition to the sheer length of the course, there are also long walks from 4 to 5 and again from 13 to 14.
Open
If this course is too wide open or doesn't have enough variety for you, check out the heavily wooded Brewster Ridge on site.
This course covers a lot of ground. In addition to the sheer length of the course, there are also long walks from 4 to 5 and again from 13 to 14.
Open
If this course is too wide open or doesn't have enough variety for you, check out the heavily wooded Brewster Ridge on site.
Other Thoughts:
Lodging
I did not stay at the Smuggler's Notch RESORT. I stayed at a small Bed and Breakfast in Jeffersonville called Smuggler's Notch INN. I felt like I had stepped back in time and onto the set of the Bob Newhart show. It really was just like that. An hisoric inn owned by a nice couple and everyone was friendly. All of Vermont seems quaint, cute, old fashioned and proud of it.
Immaculate
Course was in exceptional condition following the 2016 Green Mountain Championships. Everything was mowed and trimmed and shiny. Although I would imagine they keep these two resort courses looking nice all season. All the extra features and grooming were a great change of pace from the rustic backyard course at nearby Black Falls. While I love rugged, wilderness disc golf, it is nice to be pampered!
Review delay
I played this course as part of my trip playing 12 States in 12 Days. I promised myself before the trip that I would review every single course I played. I wanted to save the best (Fox Run) for last. I had hoped to finish my review sooner. I could have just slapped together a few lines, but I really wanted to convey how awesome it was to play here. It was literally a disc golf dream come true for me. My round at Fox Run is forever etched in my memory. I will savor these sweet disc golf memories for many, many years to come. I hope I can return again one day.
Rating
This course is a perfect match for the wooded Brewster Ridge on site. The entire Smuggler's Notch disc golf complex gets a 5. Fox Run gets 5 for being immaculately maintained. Fox Run gets a 5 for amazing Vermont Beauty. Fox Run gets a five for having four tees on every single hole. Fox Run gets a 5 for thoughtful use of elevation and natural challenges. Fox Run gets a 5 and is absolutely, hands down, the BEST course I played in Vermont!
I did not stay at the Smuggler's Notch RESORT. I stayed at a small Bed and Breakfast in Jeffersonville called Smuggler's Notch INN. I felt like I had stepped back in time and onto the set of the Bob Newhart show. It really was just like that. An hisoric inn owned by a nice couple and everyone was friendly. All of Vermont seems quaint, cute, old fashioned and proud of it.
Immaculate
Course was in exceptional condition following the 2016 Green Mountain Championships. Everything was mowed and trimmed and shiny. Although I would imagine they keep these two resort courses looking nice all season. All the extra features and grooming were a great change of pace from the rustic backyard course at nearby Black Falls. While I love rugged, wilderness disc golf, it is nice to be pampered!
Review delay
I played this course as part of my trip playing 12 States in 12 Days. I promised myself before the trip that I would review every single course I played. I wanted to save the best (Fox Run) for last. I had hoped to finish my review sooner. I could have just slapped together a few lines, but I really wanted to convey how awesome it was to play here. It was literally a disc golf dream come true for me. My round at Fox Run is forever etched in my memory. I will savor these sweet disc golf memories for many, many years to come. I hope I can return again one day.
Rating
This course is a perfect match for the wooded Brewster Ridge on site. The entire Smuggler's Notch disc golf complex gets a 5. Fox Run gets 5 for being immaculately maintained. Fox Run gets a 5 for amazing Vermont Beauty. Fox Run gets a five for having four tees on every single hole. Fox Run gets a 5 for thoughtful use of elevation and natural challenges. Fox Run gets a 5 and is absolutely, hands down, the BEST course I played in Vermont!
4
4
TheBogeyMan
Experience:
1 played
1 reviews
Stunning 2+ years drive by
Reviewed:
Played on:Jun 10, 2017
Played the course:once
Pros:
The Fox Run course at Smuggler's Notch is stunning and does not disappoint! The views are breathtaking and the staff are very friendly! Out of bounds comes into play on every hole which keeps you thinking and on your toes for every shot. Every single hole is well thought out and fair. The gold layout had turf tee pads, which were awesome to play from! The tee signs were incredibly accurate and made for no confusion.
Cons:
This really is not a con, but perhaps golf carts could be implemented here. The gold layout measures in at almost 2 miles of tee to basket distance, but the walk as a whole is easily 4 to 5 miles. Be prepared for a hike 
Other Thoughts:
This course is a must visit! The amenities at and around the course are top notch. I would recommend staying at Smuggler's Notch resort and playing multiple rounds at Fox Run and it's sister course Brewster Ridge.