Course Details: Nestled in Shelton, Washington, Salish Cliffs Golf Club is a public par-72 course designed by Gene Bates and opened in 2011 as part of the Little Creek Casino Resort. Covering 7,217 yards with a course rating of 74.6 and a slope of 139, it’s set within a lush Pacific Northwest forest, offering a secluded feel. The course features bentgrass fairways, pristine greens, and a modern clubhouse with dining options. Green fees range from $80-$120, and the course is part of a resort with additional amenities like a spa and casino. Its excellent maintenance and scenic beauty make it a top public option in Washington.

Play Characteristics: Salish Cliffs is a penal, target-style course with narrow fairways framed by dense forest, requiring precise tee shots to avoid trouble. The greens are large but undulating, with strategic bunkering that demands accurate approaches—missing the fairway often leaves little recovery due to thick trees and rough. The signature par-3 15th, with its elevated tee and forested backdrop, is a highlight, while the par-5 7th offers risk-reward opportunities. The course’s challenging layout and fast greens test ball-striking and short-game skills, but its beauty and seclusion reward golfers who navigate its demands. Management deems it “un-walkable,” so carts are recommended.