Tamarack (Idaho) Resort has unveiled the Osprey Meadows golf course, following a renovation by Robert Trent Jones II Golf Course Architects (RTJ II) and highlighted by a unique 19th Gambler’s Hole.
While mountain, meadow, and lake views remain, the resort and the original course architects from RTJ II reimagined the layout to enhance playability for members and resort golfers. The course’s picturesque terrain spans lakes, streams, meadows, and wetlands, flanked by aspens and stately ponderosa pines.
The course was originally designed by RTJ II and opened in 2006 to high acclaim. However, it closed nine years after opening due to economic setbacks but was purchased by Tamarack Resort in 2021.
“The grand opening of Osprey Meadows is the highlight of our summer, and we couldn’t be more thrilled for players to experience all 19 holes of this beautiful course,” said Scott Turlington, President of Tamarack Resort. “It’s extremely rare to get a second chance to make a first impression. In fact, it doesn’t happen very often, and we’ve got that opportunity now.”
As part of the renovation, the number and length of forced carries have been reduced, while fairways have been widened. Although the course has re-opened, refinements will continue.
The 19th Gambler’s Hole is ideal for players looking to settle friendly wagers. The watery par 3’s tee boxes are adjacent to the 18th green, affording a memorable double finish. Depending on the tee box used, the hole plays anywhere from 78 to 193 yards.
The overall course length now ranges from 3,197 yards (Bunny Rabbit tee box) to 7,447 yards (Double Black Diamond). The tee box names parallel the difficulty ratings of ski slopes, reminding players of the world-class downhill runs located in the mountains overlooking this scenic golf course and resort community.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to reinvigorate the award-winning Osprey Meadows Golf Course at Tamarack,” said Robert Trent Jones, Jr., founder and CEO of RTJ II. “The confidence that the Tamarack ownership has exhibited in the long-term value of this unique golf experience is unprecedented. We appreciate their vision and commitment.”
Jones, Jr. is the 2024 recipient of the American Society of Golf Course Architects’ Donald Ross Award, to be presented at the ASGCA’s Annual Meeting on Nov. 11 in San Francisco. The honor is given annually to a person who has made significant contributions to the game of golf and the golf course architecture profession. Jones joins the likes of Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus as Ross Award recipients and is the third member of his family to earn the honor.
