BRANSON, Missouri – Construction of a new 18-hole par-3 course is under way at Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri.
This story was first reported by Golf Course Architecture magazine.
The new course is being built adjacent to the Payne’s Valley layout, which was designed by Tiger Woods’ firm TGR Design alongside resort owner and Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris.
“We believe what is taking shape will offer one of the most extraordinary par-three course experiences anywhere,” said Bass Pro in a statement.
The new layout will be the third par-three course at Big Cedar Lodge, joining the nine-hole Jack Nicklaus-designed Top of The Rock course and the 13-hole Mountain Top course, designed by Gary Player’s firm. There are three eighteen-hole courses, Payne’s Valley, Tom Fazio’s Buffalo Ridge and Coore & Crenshaw’s Ozarks National.
No details of the architect or timetable for the new course have yet been shared.
Google Maps imagery reveals that some construction work has taken place on land between the fifth tees and the eighteenth hole on the Payne’s Valley layout, but this parcel does not appear to be large enough to accommodate 18 holes.
“It’s hard to keep up with Johnny Morris – he’s always building great things,” said Lynn Berry, director of communications at Explore Branson. “And because everything he does is done to a mind-boggling degree, we know the course under construction is going to be amazing and further reinforce our status as a must-visit golf destination.”
