Rolling Rock Club, Laughlintown, PA

Rolling Rock Golf Course in Western Pennsylvania is nestled in the breath-taking Laurel Highlands, more specifically in the tiny town of Laughlintown, population 332. This charming course and its beautiful scenery are worth the hour drive from Pittsburgh.

The Rolling Rock Golf Course opened in 1917, then a nine-hole course designed by legendary golf architect Donald Ross. The challenging design is full of undulating greens, well-placed bunkers and several water hazards. Hitting onto the tree-lined fairways is a challenge, but you can guarantee that the bent-grass course is always in excellent condition.

The course offers four tees with the par-70 back tees measuring 6,176 yards. The course isn't long, but it offers a myriad of challenges, namely the rolling greens. At 415 yards, the par-4 seventh might be the most challenging hole on the course. You'll want to keep your downhill tee shot on the fairway to prepare for the uphill approach shot where a rolling green awaits.

The back nine was added by golf architect Brian Silva in the late 90s and the new addition certainly has a more modern feel. The area where the back nine was built is very hilly (probably why the course was originally just nine holes) and Silva did an excellent job of incorporating the hills into the design. The 12th hole is one of the most notable holes on the back nine, a 475-yard par-5 with a water hazard running alongside the right side.

The private course is pristine and rarely crowded. Play during the week and you might not see another foursome the entire day.

In addition to the course, Rolling Rock offers a historic clubhouse with a top-notch menu. You will also find a practice green and large driving range. The stone water tower at the clubhouse has real historic charm and is visible from many holes on the course.

If given the chance to play a round at Rolling Rock Golf Course, jump on the opportunity. The brilliant design of a golf course legend combined with the modern twists by today's architect combine for one fabulous course. The gorgeous scenery and well-maintained facilities are the icing on the cake.