SILVER LAKES GOLF CLUB ( 905-836-8070)
Review 8/14/04
Silver Lakes Golf Club in Newmarket is a David Moote 4 star design (Golf Digest Places to Play) reminiscent of
layouts in Carolina, and unique to the Greater Toronto Area. The fairways are defined by mature forested terrain
that squeezes the landing areas, creating a need for extreme accuracy off the tee. From the back tees this can
be quite a challenge, as the course plays to 7029 yards with a top slope rating of 133. The blues measure
6511/129 slope and the whites are much more reasonable at 6098 yards and a 125 slope. The forward tees
play to a 123 slope at 5092 yards, and the yellows provide a challenging alternative for women as they measure 5578 yards with a 130 slope.
The opening hole presents an accurate picture of what one can expect at Silver Lakes - a narrow fairway flanked
by thick tree lines to either side. Two of the most interesting holes of the layout follow - both featuring approaches
to greens situated on the other side of water hazards. Number two presents an ample landing zone anywhere
near the 150 yard area, but a pond 90 yards away that also meanders to the right side and behind the green,
makes for a tight approach. With a long, slender putting surface par is good score here. The third is a pretty par
three, also over a pond. There are bunkers on either side and also immediately in front of the green, with about
15 yards of grass between the hazard and the putting surface. The playability of the course from the forward tees
is highlighted on the next hole, as the from the three back tees golfers must carry a water hazard while from the
two front tees, the hazard is merely along the left and mostly out of harm's way. Pictures of both holes are featured below
The rest of the holes on the front and through number 13 present tree lined fairways with accuracy more
important than distance. The 12th is particularly tight, and at 450, 425 and 400 from the three back tees - this par
four also plays long. With little room for error, playing cautiously may be a good idea here. Most of the green
complexes feature bunkers on the sides, leaving the front of the putting surfaces open for run up shots or chips
when approaches are short. Thirteen is also extremely interesting. This par four coves just 315 yards from the
tips (295 from the blues and 275 from the whites), and tempts long hitters to attempt to drive the green. A
daunting water hazard must be carried, but there is sufficient room to the right and behind the green. A more
prudent play is to lay up near the 100 yard marker, leaving a wedge approach to green sculpted between 2 sand
traps on the right and 1 on the left. Fourteen is the most open driving hole on the course, though a lake runs a
good length of the hole on the left. Most of the water hazards at Silver Lakes are on the perimeter, with few long,
forced carries. Fifteen and sixteen also provide some room for error off the tee. The back ends with a score-able
par three before culminating with another tight driving hole. The terrain throughout is relatively flat, and the greens
are large, mildly undulating and a joy to putt on. Play smartly, reach in regulation and good scores can be had. Miss to either side, and some tricky up and downs will be the result.
Silver Lakes is a fine golf facility. Uniquely, cart paths are provided on both sides of the fairways - even on the par threes. Weather covers are standard on the back of each cart, protecting clubs on rainy days. Aesthetically,
the combination of hardwood forests, manicured fairways and greens, and white sand bunkers make the course
quite beautiful to the eye. On our visit the layout was meticulously groomed from tee to green. Sprinkler heads
are marked and flags are posted on the fairways at 100, 150 and 200 yards, while color coded flags indicate the
day's pin placements. There is a huge putting/chipping green plus a water driving range with grass tees directed
towards targets in a lake. The clubhouse features a pro shop, restaurant/lounge with menus for breakfast, lunch
and dinner, plus ample banquet and outing facilities. Rates in 2004 topped out at $70 on weekdays and $80 on
weekends (carts $30 shared). Corporate memberships are available, and Silver Lakes also specializes in tournaments and outings.
For more information, visit our page for Silver Lakes with link to their website by clicking here.
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