Emerald Hill Golf Course C

Sterling, IL 61081-9709

Grade Breakdown

Overall C 78/100

Course Condition A 90/100

Design & Challenge D 65/100

Amenities C 72/100

Value B 85/100

Service C 75/100

Reputation B 82/100

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About This Course

Emerald Hill Golf Course in Sterling, IL, is a highly regarded municipal course that stands out for its exceptional maintenance and historic charm. Opened in 1923, it offers a classic public golf experience with fast greens and a strategic layout featuring water and sand hazards. While the design is traditional rather than innovative, the course condition and value make it a top choice for locals and visitors alike.

Course Info

Holes 18

Par 71

Yardage 6,244

Slope 113

Course Rating 69.5

Type Municipal

Year Built 1923

Terrain Rolling

Green Fees

Weekday $40

Weekend $40

Practice Facilities

driving range practice greens

Details

Address 16802 Prairieville Rd, Sterling, IL

City Sterling, IL

Phone +18156226204

Website http://www.emeraldhillgolf.com/

Who Should Play Here?

Beginner Recommended

Emerald Hill is an excellent choice for beginners due to its well-maintained condition and medium difficulty rating. The course offers a variety of elements like trees and water that teach shot-making without being overly punishing, provided players utilize the forward tees.

Play from the forward tees to manage length while still enjoying the challenge.
Take advantage of the practice greens before your round to gauge green speed.
Watch for the water hazards on par-4s; accuracy off the tee is key.

Intermediate Recommended

Mid-handicap golfers will find a satisfying test with a slope rating of 113 and strategic elements including sand traps and water. The fast greens require precision, but the course layout offers enough variety to keep scores interesting.

The back nine features some of the more challenging holes requiring careful club selection.
Fairways are well-defined, so missing them often leads to trouble in the rough or near water.
Pace of play can be an issue during peak times; arrive early to avoid delays.

Advanced Playable

While not a championship-level test, advanced players will appreciate the course's maintenance and the strategic demands of its pin placements. The fast greens and specific hole layouts offer opportunities for low scores if played strategically.

Target the center of the fairways on long holes to set up approach shots to the fast greens.
The course rating of 69.5 suggests a solid challenge for scratch golfers, particularly on the par-4s.
Be mindful of the 'fast' green speed; leave plenty of room on putts.