Link Course
Opelika, AL, USA
Grand National's Links Course is where the spirit of the game thrives amidst the sprawling beauty of Auburn-Opelika, Alabama, a testament to accessible championship golf. Designed in the modern era by Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course embraces the rolling, open terrain characteristic of inland links, a rarity in the heart of the Deep South. Wide fairways belie the challenge, offering a deceptive invitation off the tee only to reveal intricate bunkering and subtly undulating greens that reward thoughtful approaches and strategic course management. While not steeped in the lore of major championships, the Links Course at Grand National has served as a proving ground for rising stars, most notably hosting the Barbasol Championship, a PGA Tour event that showcases the course's playability and demanding nature, offering both birdie opportunities and tests of resolve. Grand National stands as an example of Robert Trent Jones Sr.'s commitment to bringing challenging yet enjoyable golf to a broader audience. The Links Course is favored for its playability, making it a popular venue for both serious golfers and those seeking a casual round. Its straightforward design and beautiful setting provide a memorable experience.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Unranked
Best in USA
Unranked
Best in AL
Public: #6
Golfers say this is the more challenging of the two courses at the facility, with a links-style layout that features authentic characteristics and routing that takes players far from the clubhouse at the turn. Most praise the course as an exceptional value, with some noting it could command significantly higher green fees given the quality of the experience. Reviewers consistently describe the layout as fun and enjoyable despite—or perhaps because of—its difficulty. The course appears particularly popular among budget-conscious players who appreciate getting a premium golf experience at accessible rates.
7.9
91 players
Harder course of the two, still a good time.
Best Value course in the South that I’ve played. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here. As a graduate student I get a student discount which allows me to play it for only $60. They could charge $200+ and it would be a fair price.
A lot harder than the lakes course. Also very fun layout though. Links course had a lot of links characteristics, so 9 & 10 will be as far from the clubhouse as you will be.
Public courses closest to Link at RTJ Golf Trail at Grand National Golf Club.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Link at RTJ Golf Trail at Grand National Golf Club has a Course Vaults score of 7.9 out of 10 based on 54 explicit golfer ratings.
Link was designed by Roger Rulewich and Robert Trent Jones Sr..
Yes. Link at RTJ Golf Trail at Grand National Golf Club is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Link is 72.
Link plays 7,311 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Link is 143.
