Elkdale Country Club: Family-friendly Local Course Worth the Trip

Denise Royer
Freelance Writer

Some people hear “country club” and immediately think of plaid shorts and stuffy old men. If you are one of those people, head over to Elkdale Country Club, located in the scenic hills of Salamanca, and you may be pleasantly surprised to have this notion challenged. This semi-private 18-hole golf course is a far cry from the cultural stereotype and is truly a nice, welcoming club in the country.
On a recent outing during this unseasonably warm March, the good folks at Elkdale graciously allowed a motley foursome consisting of myself, my husband and our two children (ages five and two) to take a little tour of the course. No one on the course batted an eye – in fact many smiled and waved – as we made our way through the back nine.
Not a golfer myself – a so-called “golf widow” actually – even I can appreciate the beauty and serenity of this place, if not the test of one’s golfing abilities. The front nine at Elkdale was built in 1927 and is cut through varied terrain and mature trees. The back nine was added in the early 1960s and is a bit longer with larger greens. The layout is designed to provide an interesting challenge for players of all skill levels and the modern tee-to-green watering system ensures maximum playability throughout the season. According to PGA professional Jack Widger, course highlights include Hole #4, a par 3 which wins for beauty and difficulty; Hole # 15, a par 5 which wins for its length; and Hole #16, which wins for intimidation. The men’s course rating is currently 69.3 and the slope rating is 120.
Not just for golfers, Elkdale Country Club is true to its name, complete with pool, lounge facility and excellent dining. The bar and restaurant are not yet open full time, but while the warm weather sticks around, the course is open on a day-to-day basis. The special early-spring rate is $31 for 18 holes and cart or $21 for 9 holes and a cart. The rate will change once the course gets a complete spring manicure.
Elkdale is located on Route 353, halfway between Salamanca and Little Valley and just 10 minutes from Ellicottville. A semi-private course, public play is welcome every day of the week with a reservation during regular operating hours. For more information or to book a tee time, call the golf shop at (716) 945-5553. Or just stop by for a visit and the helpful staff will be sure to answer any questions about the club, membership, league information and more.