New Salish Cliffs Golf Club taking shape

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Updated: November 1, 2010

All 18 holes and the driving range / practice facility have been shaped and seeded with T1 bentgrass turf. In addition, construction of the log and cedar clubhouse began earlier this month and is expected to be done by winter’s end.

“Watching Salish Cliffs Golf Club come to life is gratifying,” says Ray Peters, Executive Director of the Squaxin Island Tribe. “We knew this property had tremendous potential, and seeing it blossom the last few months has reinforced our belief that it will offer a unique playing experience.”

The clubhouse – which will reflect the style and structure of Little Creek Casino Resort – is being built next to a deep ravine situated near a bridge that spans between hole Nos. 1 and 10, boasting 360-degree views of the Kamilche Valley. The structure will feature a wrap-around porch overlooking hole Nos. 9 and 18, providing a perfect location for golfers to gather for a post-round drink and meal while watching others finish their rounds.

“We want the sightlines of the clubhouse to evoke thoughts of the Salish Cliffs name and provide a dramatic, aesthetically pleasing setting,” explains Peters. “By placing the clubhouse in this area, we will accomplish that goal and give our golfers a central meeting place with striking views of this special property.”

According to Salish Cliffs Head Superintendent Bob Pearsall, hole Nos. 10 through 17 are playable right now while the rest of the course is evolving quickly. When construction on the course breaks for the winter months in November, Pearsall and his crew will remain on site to maintain the course as it continues to grow in and mature.

Infrastructure adjacent to Salish Cliffs is also in its final stages. The road from Little Creek Casino Resort to the golf course has been completed and the parking lot has been cleared and graveled.

Created by renowned golf-course architect Gene Bates, Salish Cliffs incorporates natural vegetation, rock facings and 600 feet of elevation changes with seamless transitions. The par-72, 7,300-yard championship layout will be an intimate golfing experience with 16 of 18 holes encircled by lush forestry.