The Pocono Mountains offer some of the most scenic and challenging golf courses. Within an hour’s drive of Lake Harmony, PA, golfers can find a variety of courses that blend natural beauty with demanding layouts. Whether you’re an experienced golfer looking to test your skills or a casual player seeking an unforgettable round, these five standout holes showcase the best of what the region has to offer.
1. Split Rock Golf Club – North Course, Hole 11
Nestled in the heart of the Poconos, Split Rock Golf Club’s North Course is known for its stunning views and well-maintained greens. Hole 11 is a par 5 that offers a thrilling challenge to golfers of all skill levels. With a slight dogleg left, this hole requires precision off the tee to avoid the thick tree line that hugs the fairway. Golfers must navigate a strategically placed bunker near the green, making approach shots particularly crucial. The scenic backdrop of Lake Harmony adds to the allure of this hole, making it one of the most memorable on the course.
2. Hideaway Hills Golf Club – Hole 15
Hole 15 at Hideaway Hills Golf Club is a picturesque par 3 that tests accuracy and club selection. The elevated tee box provides a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountains, but the real challenge comes from the water hazard guarding the green. A forced carry over the pond means there’s little room for error—land short, and you’ll be taking a drop. The green itself is well-bunkered, requiring a well-placed shot to secure a par. This hole perfectly encapsulates the beauty and challenge of mountain golf in the Poconos.
3. Jack Frost National Golf Club – Hole 12
A local favorite, Jack Frost National Golf Club offers a well-designed course that takes full advantage of the natural landscape. Hole 12, a lengthy par 5, is a true risk-reward opportunity for players willing to take a chance. Off the tee, players face a generous fairway, but positioning is key to setting up a strong second shot. Those who dare to go for the green in two will have to contend with a well-protected green surrounded by a bunker. Playing it safe by laying up provides a more manageable approach, but the undulating green ensures that birdie putts are anything but easy. The breathtaking views of the surrounding forests make this hole a must-play.
4. The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort – Hole 2
Designed by the legendary A.W. Tillinghast, The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort boasts a historic course with stunning riverside holes. Hole 2, a challenging par 3, is one of the most photographed in the region. This hole plays over the Delaware River, creating a dramatic setting that requires both focus and a steady swing. The green is perched just beyond the water, with bunkers waiting to catch any shots that veer off course. The sound of the river rushing below adds to the ambiance, making this hole a true test of nerves. Whether you stick the green or find the sand, playing this hole is an unforgettable experience.
5. Hideaway Hills Golf Club – Hole 13
Hideaway Hills makes the list again with its standout Hole 13, a 320yd par 4 that demands some power. This hole features an elevation gain of 98’ from tee to green. This hole will play two clubs tougher than your yardage, so be prepared! The green appears close from the fairway but adding at least 15 yards is necessary. After you sink that putt, check the view from the top of the hill. Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, this hole captures the essence of golf in the Poconos—beauty, challenge, and an unforgettable round.
Plan Your Golf Getaway
With these top-tier golf holes just a short drive from Lake Harmony, it’s easy to see why the Poconos are a premier destination for golf enthusiasts. But a great golf trip isn’t just about the course—it’s about where you unwind after the final putt. At Pocono Mountain Rentals, our spacious luxury homes offer everything your group needs for the ultimate golf getaway—plenty of room for the whole crew, game rooms, private hot tubs, and expansive outdoor spaces perfect for post-round drinks and camaraderie. So pack your clubs, book your tee times, and elevate your golf trip with a stay in a home built for unforgettable experiences.
