Maplewood Golf Course, Renton, WA

Maplewood is a beautiful municipal golf course located in the Seattle suburb of Renton, a quick 11-mile trip from the city limits. In addition to being a challenging, yet playable course, Maplewood offers great amenities for a full day of fun.

The course itself is well-maintained for a public golf course and the greens are in exceptional shape. Mature trees line most of the holes, testing golfers at every turn while providing a picturesque backdrop. Play a round during the fall and really enjoy the colors and sounds of nature.

The par-72 course is of moderate length, even from the back tees which play just over 6,100 yards. Ponds and creeks border many of the holes so this course is sure to provide a challenge for water-wary golfers. The par-3 sixth hole is particularly tricky with a tee shot over water, a bunker behind the hole and a back-to-front slope on the green.

The 11th hole is the number one handicap hole for golfers, regardless of the tee they are playing from. The hole is not particularly long for a par-4 – it's 401 yards from the back tees – but an errant shot is trouble. Trees and a creek border the right side of the fairway and tall pines are located on the left. The two-tiered green is surrounded by mounds and a bunker.

Overall, there are a good variety of holes, some straight, some with dog legs to the left or right. The course is walkable, if so desired, or golfers can choose to take a cart for a reasonable price. Since the golf course is quite popular in the area, expect to wait on holes during busy times like Saturdays and Sundays. The popularity is due, in part, to the fact that the cost to play on the quality course remains quite affordable.

Maplewood is also very close to the highway, which is convenient but also noisy at times. The noise is a distraction for some golfers, but others barely even notice the sounds.

One of Maplewood's most notable features in addition to the course is its 30-station double-decker driving range. Since the driving range is heated, covered and lighted, golfers can work on their game late in the day and deep into the golf season.

Feeling hungry? Maplewood is home to River Rock Grille which boasts a full-service bar, patio and banquet area. The bar area has a good selection of beers and TVs, perfect for watching college football after a round of golf on Saturdays in the fall.

Maplewood was voted "Best Public Golf Course" four years in a row by readers of the South County Journal. You will definitely want to check out the course on your next trip to Seattle and stay for the many great amenities.

06-17-10 Played a nine holes after work. Very busy and the golf course is OK. Don't expect much for $22 but fair for the value. Greens were in good conditions. Boring lay-out and short course from the blue 6,112. Quality of golfers with high handicap which creates slow play. Noisy because of the highway. Club house had a fun ambiance. Watching the Lakers beaten the Celtics in Game 7. I recommend the location if you would like to play after work with average players.