Distance Not Necessary For Quality
16 Helpful / 0 Not
Pros: Coralville's local course has just about everything except massive distances, but I hope to convince you today that a course can be quite incredible even with just one hole over 450ft.
The course comforts are all in place and in great shape. Large concrete tees, tee signs showing both pins, and 19 bright orange MachX baskets if we include the practice green.
Elevation is the prime part of the land. Big, consistent ups and downs are the stars of the show on 7-10 and 13-14, but the other stellar uses like hole 1 or 11's's fairway falling away to the pin and the greens of 4 and 5 shooting upward (tempts an ace run when throwing into a hillside) really solidify this factor of the course as the best.
Even most of the flatter holes provide some good challenge. Hole 2 has a tree ceiling late on the left line and a 3ft high downed tree on the right line. Water sits to the left of holes 5 and 6, and the tight woods on 15-17 make what would be below-average holes into good ones.
Flow of the course is excellent, and the one long walk (from 6 to 7) was necessary to reach the next part of the course while keeping the level of difficulty consistent. Maintenance to differentiate in and out-of-bounds was excellent as well as strips between holes.
No two holes feel the same, and without long holes that's impressive. The unique combinations of uphills, downhills, and other challenges is unparalleled in courses sitting below 6500ft.
Cons: Holes 3 and 18 are the only "bad" holes. 3 is a flat, wide open mid-range or fairway driver shot, while 18 is a treeless slight downhill that does add some OB to keep it from being the easiest 600ft par 4 ever.
Holes 8 and 18 have fencing down the left side. 8 has prominent "No Trespassing" signs to keep people out of the quarry, but I think 18's is just next to the road.
Hole 10's right line plays pretty close to the pad of 14, and the fairways of 7, 9, and 10 - while separated by large swaths of OB grass - could get dangerous if the wind decides to kick up.
Other Thoughts: For the parcel of land given, Coralville has pulled off an excellent course. Keeping every hole fresh but not overly easy was the key to making this such a good round of 18. The level of difficulty isn't the highest, but the work put in to make the course clean and un-monotonous takes it to the next level. I recommend a playthrough for anyone coming by Iowa University or even just going by on I-80.
16 of 16 people found this review helpful.
8 Helpful / 0 Not
Pros: What's Great:
- This is a perfect "easy course" and it should be celebrated because you know exactly what you're getting with this course and it accomplishes this extremely well. Every hole asks you to execute classic disc golf shots; the same ones we all think we can perform every time but after playing this here you'll be reminded that sometimes the basics are always in need of practice.
- Fantastic family or beginner course. This is the #1 place for beginners to learn disc golf in the Iowa City area and these types of courses are always needed to grow the sport. It's also a great place for families to come out for a quick round without having to worry about tight fairways and keeping the kids discs in play. This feature alone makes the course a win - until you've tried playing difficult courses with your wife and SO, you don't know you're missing a real treat. I've done several birthday parties here with my kids, they were lots of fun.
- The shots are unimaginative. Everyone will throw the same lines which may sound boring but it's also a great test of your ability to execute your game and a sneaky, highly competitive aspect for advanced players. This course sets up that "I'm better than you" scenario better than most and should be appreciated for its elegance in this regard.
- The Front 9 and Back 9 are different.
-- Front plays like a simple park course without many obstacles and challenges accurate lines off the tee-pads that need good distance while avoiding a small creek on multiple holes. Going off the fairway isn't punishing as you can usually save par or hold yourself to a boogey and aren't severely penalized for bad tee-shots.
-- Back asks for more accuracy and touch until the last 3 holes when you get to uncork a few longer shots with challenging putts. It has more tunnel and forest holes but without the annoyance of multiple trees clogging the fairways which can be a major limitation to some Iowa courses played in the woods. Hole 12 is a great separating hole as a drive left at any distance up the fairway leaves you with a difficult scramble situation.
- To summarize, good shots are rewarded with birdie opportunities for all players while average shots rarely end up with easy birdies. For most holes you need to consider your landing as it sets up your putt much more than other "easy" courses. Most greens are protected or have some degree of elevation that will challenge your putting if you miss your drive.
- This course is extremely challenging on windy days, especially holes with elevation changes off the tee or at the pin. Holes 1, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, and 18 really shine in the wind and help to separate the field during competitive play.
- Many Ace opportunities depending on course set up. At most, holes 1, 2, 3, 4, maybe 6, 7, 8, 9, 11 (blind), 13, 14, and 15 are all opportunities. These holes are probably why the course is also called easy as the pins are easily reachable.
What's Good:
- The course as a whole is extremely playable with clearly defined, wide fairways, level concrete tee-pads, large signs, benches, trash cans, and some picturesque golf shots (1, new 4, 9, 12, 18)
- Lots of elevation changes.
- Maintenance from the city is superb. Fairways are always mowed with trimmed edges. Free score cards at hole 1 along with a great map and putting green.
- Easy to get to the course, it's close to the city and next to the I-80 (east / west) and 380 (north / south) changes in case you're coming from out of town.
Cons: Despite the elegance and simplicity of the course, there are some downsides.
- Theres almost no need for midrange shots and you can get by with a limited amount of midrange discs in your bag to cover your basic shots. Every hole is either a driver or putter off the tee and because most holes are par 3 your either putting or chipping for your second shot. As a beginner course I feel there should be a few more opportunities for challenging approach shots from the fairway. This may not apply to everyone as some people may need a midrange disc for upshots.
- After rain the course can be muddy and soggy on quite a few holes.
- Theres a lack of obstacles off the tee pad limiting the need for flex shots or creative lines. Several holes have annoying branches that could be trimmed, hole 6 looking at you! (summer 21).
- If this course has one major flaw it's the uphill holes 7, 10 and 13 that are almost identical with bomb hyzers being the only real option for quality shots + distance. That said, when 10 is in long its a challenging fairway shot to the pin. Hole 7 has a shorter pin location on the left that plays a hyzer to a slightly protected green but overall it's lacking variety. Hole 13 is a tighter line, but it's still a manageable uphill hyzer. If the pin on 13 could be moved to the right it would be better but probably isn't possible as that would endanger the fairway on 12. Other options would be to add an elevated pin on 13. 7 and 13 are also ace run shots in short.
- Relatively short course, mostly par 3's.
- Lack of risk / reward aspect of imaginative golf.
Other Thoughts: I would highly recommend this course for beginners, families, and it's great for weekday league nights as it plays fast and sets up nicely for doubles play. It's not going to be challenging for experienced golfers but sometimes thats good. You wont leave the course feeling exhausted or worn down like other courses and theres plenty of opportunities to blast a few drives.
The course is still being improved. Recently hole 4 pin was moved to a small hill which gives you an uphill putt from almost any landing area. This change challenges the hyzer shot with a difficult line and landing area for the easy putt while blocking a RHFH throw with a large tree.
Lastly - this course will age like fine wine relative to the growth of disc golf in eastern Iowa. As of fall 2021 there are plans to add 2 professional level courses to the area within a year. The Shaver Park redesign in Cedar Rapids and a new, private course a ways outside city limits. These new courses should place this course in sharp relief with the proposed, higher difficulty courses and will show off the character of a well designed, friendly course. I expect a lot of players to gravitate back The Farm after a few rounds getting beat down by harder courses designs.
Another wonderful disc golf course for the community designed by local pro Jeff Harper who also designed The Peninsula in Iowa City.
8 of 8 people found this review helpful.
Fun course - easy to enjoy
2 Helpful / 1 Not
Pros: Tee pads and baskets are top notch. Course amenities are plentiful - benches on most holes and good signage.
The course is very fun to play and offers more elevation than the average course. One hole is played on sand, and water is a hazard on two holes. It is true that half of the holes can be easily reached with a RHBH hyzer, but the distances vary. There is a nice mix of wooded and open holes, and nothing unfair or absurd. The last hole could play as a par 4, otherwise the course is pretty easy.
Cons: The walk from 4-5
The walk from 6-7
2 of 3 people found this review helpful.
Nice New Course
6 Helpful / 0 Not
Pros: -Great Signage
-Multiple Pin Locations
-Good mix of open / wooded holes
-Decent use of elevation
-Concrete Tee Pads
-Good map at start of course
Cons: -More benches/trash cans needed
-Only a potra-potty on site for restroom facilities
Other Thoughts: While other reviewers are harping on this as a "boring" course, I think it is very nice. New just last year, it will come into its own. There is a good mix of open/wooded holes and good use of terrain. The multiple pin positions allow for a little more interest than in previous reviews. The signage is good with a decent map to follow. As some recently planted trees mature and some of the fairways get more established, the course will improve. Played on a Monday afternoon and had no issues with parking. Had a good round here and will definitely make it a point to stop again.
6 of 6 people found this review helpful.
You'll like "farming" here
3 Helpful / 0 Not
Pros: Most amateurs will appreciate a variety of game-refining elements : risk/reward, elevation changes, wind, technical challenges, scenery, open/distance shots, tilted stances, ace opportunities, and quick rounds. The steep-banked creek on holes 2, 4,5, and 6 will swallow plenty of lousy shots. Holes 11-13 and 15-17 have mature growth. Expect areas of deeper grass framing some fairways as the course matures. Several holes have either severe roll-away potential, or steep basket-area drop-offs. Within a month of opening, several improvements (tree planting, drainage, brush clearing, assorted garbage containers) have occurred. A few original farm buildings remain.
Cons: Talented pros will likely find this course to be lacking a wow factor, but should still enjoy a trip here, especially if combined with other area courses. It is brand new(fall 2018) and heavy rains will damage sloped fairways until established. A steady parade of heavy construction vehicles from the adjacent quarry cause noise and gravel dust everywhere. Beware of barbed-wire fencing concealed within brushy areas. Closed until at least 11am M-F. Very limited parking lot.
Other Thoughts: Unknown if this new course will stay open for winter play.
The toughest positions and a gusty wind maybe bump this to a 3 rating. There are restaurants, hotels, and the mall within 5 minutes from the course.
A nearby walking/biking trail extension is in progress. Congratulations to Coralville, the land donators, and the designer for this enjoyable new disc property.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.
Its Okay For Beginners
8 Helpful / 0 Not
Pros: -The property as a whole is all brand new, clean and nicely manicured. Clearly a fair amount of money was put into quickly putting this course into place and has a "ball golf" feel to the premises.
-There were nice new signs that are easy to understand.
-Each hole has a brand new basket. No need to get your tetanus shot before coming out here.
-This family farm looks to have other things to do, including but not limited to a permanent bean bag area made from concrete, something unlike anything I have ever seen.
-The property as a whole is very nice.
-1 long down-hill bomber hole that will make anyone want to step up to see how far they can bomb a disc. Fun for anyone on at least 1 hole always.
-River is in play on 2 holes but would require a shank of a shot as it only runs beside the hole and the fairway of the hole is wide open giving you plenty of wiggle room to throw on the other side of the fairway.
-Although they have quickly put a lot of work, time and money into this course with landscaping, they have still made the course FREE to play which is always great.
Cons: -General course design leaves a lot to be desired and is without a doubt the major limitation of this course.
A. Unless you prefer to throw straight, reachable distance holes over and over again for most the course, this course is going to disappoint. It's fair to say that somewhat close to 75% of these holes are fairly wide open, straight shots about 200-300 ft out. There is 1 other hole that goes to the right (hole 5 I believe and i think it was 2 holes that require you to throw a shot to the left (16 & 17). Other than that, an arrow straight shot thrown down an unobstructed alley will get you to each basket fairly easily.
-There are tons of freshly planted trees
-the trees will grow up and add to this course for sure, however, all these trees were planted on about 10 of the fairways strictly to line a straight fairway, giving you about a 100-150ft wide fairway to throw straight down. I don't believe I saw 1 tree planted that required you to throw a disc around it. I also assessed whether the trees created a fairway that bent left or right and none did. They simply put the trees in as straight as a line towards each basket, basically making a ton of holes that are all identical in their shot requirement.
-No garbages on the course when I was there but I would expect they will be putting some in soon and I am not dinging the course's rating for this, more or less wanted to make a note for those looking to play it
Other Thoughts: I always hate giving an average rating to a course that clearly the intent was to create something new and great with a lot of upfront money. Unfortunately, new and pristine only buys so much of my favor in a course and I definitely put more stock in great hole design, hole-type variety, course fun-factor (function of design and variety), and to some extent some technical requirements that make it so a guy throwing a tennis ball can't score the same as the guy throwing a disc. I admit I do prefer technical courses, but this course really does have the same straight, open shot on 75% of the course.
-This, in my opinion, is a great course for a beginner to really get an entry level feel of a decent disc golf course. I would be very skeptical to assume many seasoned throwers will come out here and feel challenged at all. I would never drive out of my way again to play this course. If it was within about 30 miles of my home Id maybe come back but not even that is a guarantee as I prefer more challenge and shot shaping requirements than this course will ever offer.
8 of 8 people found this review helpful.
For Beginners Only
5 Helpful / 3 Not
Pros: This course has beautiful brand new baskets that are bright orange and easy to see for the shorts. There are permanent bean bag toss boards in case you need to wait to hit the course. There is even a cool giant bell to ring on hole 1. The long baskets or alternate locations which are not in yet, would be borderline decent and could potentially merit a half point higher score. There are 2 good holes on this course, 15 which is a short tear drop down and back up a hill, and 18 which is a big bomber and even though there are no obstacles to deal with, 690 feet downhill is always fun.
Cons: I am very disappointed in this course. This is a course for beginners only because there is no challenge. A beginners course CANNOT merit anything above a 3.5 period. This is a wide open course with a few exceptions. There are recently planted trees and bushes on the wide open holes but not as obstacles at all, more as future ways to separate one hole from the other. There is nothing to throw around on most of the holes. There is no technicality to this course. With all the new trees planted one would think on occasion, that one or two of them would be in the fairway to throw around or between, but that is not the case here. There are a few holes in the middle that are just, throw up an open prairie, throw down an open prairie, throw up the prairie, throw back down etc. with no obstacles on the hole nor anything to separate one hole from the other besides some new 2ft tall bushes which makes it a safety concern as well considering this course will only bring in beginners who are still trying to figure out how far right they have to release the disc to get it to come back to the middle.
Other Thoughts: There is no way this course is remotely close to a 3.5, let alone the 4.5 that was given as the first review. I was so disappointed with this course considering it had such a high score. My trip to the area was a lot of fun, but this was by far the worst course we hit. It was simply just a waste of precious time on a short trip. I like technical or varied courses, Coralville is neither. Pretty much every hole is an ace run hole. Those are fun to have a couple times per round but not 15/18. If you are in this area hit Shaver park first and stay there and throw a second round before considering Coralville.
5 of 8 people found this review helpful.
Variety and "fun factor"!
9 Helpful / 2 Not
Pros: Edit/update: My review considers long and short on all holes (one set of baskets are moved between two positions that are currently installed on every hole). The easiest layout (5098ft) was in place (except for a couple holes) for Sept-Oct 2018 for the park's grand opening, and has fewer technical shot-shaping requirements:
1 left-to-right (hole 5)
2 right-to-left (holes 16, 17)
3 straight tunnels (holes 6, 12, 15)
The longest layout (6239ft) has more protected greens and technical shot-shaping requirements:
3 left-to-right (holes 6, 11, 14)
2 right-to-left (holes 1, 16)
3 straight tunnels (holes 5, 12, 15)
Holes 3, 7, and 8 are right-to-left but are wide open on the right side.
Holes 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17 have more protected greens in the long layout.
----
This course is known as Altmaier Park, or "The Farm". Brand new park, grand opening was yesterday (Sept 30 2018). Nice fresh teepads, new orange MachX baskets. This course has a little bit of everything. The variety is its strongest suit. Each hole has two basket positions, usually a little different on the distance, but also different types of shot shaping required. There are several ace runs, and up to three par 4s (holes 10 long, 12 long, and 18 in both positions), so depending on the layout the par ranges from 55-57.
There are a couple of flat open shots, several wide open shots on steep uphill and downhill. A highlight of these is hole 9, a 400+ foot downhill shot from a teepad with expansive views of the valley. One of hole 9's basket position is set right at the edge of the woods, and it's deceptive...a throw that can reach the circle will look like it's going to end up deep in the woods. Also, there are several tunnel shots with varying degrees of technicality. The more technical ones are carved out of dense cedar forest, and it can be very tough to save par if you penetrate any distance off the fairway. Holes 3-6 play along a large creek with some sections having 10-12ft vertical banks, and it is a severe penalty to go in there -- even if you want to try scrambling down, you might not see your disc at all when the water is high and silty after rainfall.
This course is an excellent complement to nearby courses - it's quite different from Peninsula, Sugar Bottom, Lake Iowa and all the Cedar Rapids area courses (and I think it's better than all of these). Several holes are unique, unlike any I can recall from playing about 150 courses in 22 states. When it comes to "fun factor", this course really nails it.
Cons: Although there are a handful of holes here that will definitely challenge the best pro players, that's less than a third of the course, so it's still fair to say that overall this isn't a "championship-level course". Most holes are reachable by intermediate-level players with 320-ish driving distance, and the longer holes are not very technical (except for 12 long).
Other Thoughts: Since it's a really new park, there are still some amenities that are in progress. It's not equipped with decent bathroom facilities or drinking water, although there is a portable john. I think they underestimated the amount of parking needed...probably should be doubled. Where the creek banks are vertical, some access points for disc retrieval would be helpful, but I can understand there might be feasibility and safety concerns. These cons don't have much affect on my rating which is based mostly on the course itself.
9 of 11 people found this review helpful.
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5+ 
9/30/2018 
10/1/2018
Review By: IHearChains 
This review was updated on 10/24/2018
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