When you think about Gil Hanse and Los Angeles, the first thought that pops up is most likely the Los Angeles Country Club and the North Course, which hosted the 2023 US Open Championship. While Hanse did a fantastic job on the North Course, the locals know him better for his work at Rustic Canyon Golf Course, a public track in Moorpark, California.
Rustic Canyon is often heralded as one of the hidden gems of the Los Angeles golf scene. In 2002, Gil Hanse, Geoff Shackelford, and Jim Wagner built Rustic Canyon on a former sheep ranch. The design team intended the game to be played as much on the ground as in the air, delivering a unique, challenging layout that captivates casual golfers and seasoned enthusiasts.
What sets Rustic Canyon apart is its emphasis on natural beauty and strategic design rather than flashy aesthetics. The course seamlessly integrates into the surrounding landscape, featuring rugged terrain, native vegetation, and stunning vistas of the Santa Susana Mountains. Hanse’s minimalist approach to design shines through, as the course feels as though it was carved out of the land’s natural contours.
The layout of Rustic Canyon is thoughtful and engaging, with wide fairways that tempt golfers to grip the ball and rip it off the tee. However, the strategic placement of bunkers, arroyos, and subtle elevation changes demand precision on approach shots. The greens are large and undulating, providing an actual test of putting skill. We played with two locals, who taught us about putting up-canyon and down-canyon. Any putt headed up the canyon will be slower than the same putt down the canyon. So, a downhill putt up canyon will be much slower than it looks.
One of Rustic Canyon’s most notable aspects is its accessibility. Despite its reputation as one of the best public golf courses in the area, it remains relatively affordable and open to the public. Additionally, its proximity to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) makes it an ideal destination for golfers looking to squeeze in a round before catching their flight.
Rustic Canyon offers a memorable and rewarding golfing experience highlighting Southern California’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor passing through, playing a round at Rustic Canyon will leave a lasting impression.
To book a round at Rustic Canyon Golf Course please visit their website!