
The Ridge Course
The Ridge at Back Brook



About this course
The Ridge at Back Brook, carved into the rolling hills of Hunterdon County, channels the spirit of classic American parkland courses, yet its relatively young age belies a mature, challenging design. Architect Hal Purdy’s creation unfolds across dramatic elevation changes, rewarding thoughtful play rather than brute force. Generous fairways encourage bold drives, but strategically placed bunkers and subtly contoured greens demand precise approach shots. The course is known for its undulating terrain and fast greens that are some of the most challenging in the state. It favors those who can control their ball flight and manage risk, showcasing both beauty and challenge. While not a regular host to major championships, The Ridge at Back Brook fosters a vibrant, close-knit membership drawn to the course's strategic intricacies and the club's convivial atmosphere. The club is also home to one of the most active women's golf associations in the region, creating a strong sense of community. Adding to the club’s unique character is the tradition of the annual "Ridge Cup," a member-guest tournament celebrated for its spirited competition and post-round camaraderie, making it a cherished event within the club's culture.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Private column compares member-only and guest-restricted courses.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in NJ
Quick facts
- Location
- Ringoes, NJ, USA
- Access
- Private
- Year built
- 2002
- Holes
- 18
- Designer(s)
- Tom Fazio, Beau Welling
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 7,215 yards
- Difficulty
- 76.2/148
- Course Vaults score
- 8.1
Getting there
The Ridge at Back Brook lies in the rolling farmland of Hunterdon County, roughly an hour west of Newark Liberty International (EWR) and ninety minutes from the heart of Manhattan. The drive traces a gradual retreat from the urban corridor into the Raritan Valley's patchwork of stone walls, horse farms, and open pasture - a landscape that feels decidedly more Pennsylvania than New Jersey. As Route 202 gives way to narrower country roads near Ringoes, the terrain begins to lift and fold, and the final turn reveals the club's elevated perch above Back Brook, a fitting threshold between the everyday world and Tom Doak's minimalist masterwork.

FAQ
Common questions about The Ridge
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
The Ridge has a Course Vaults score of 8.1 out of 10 based on 40 logged golfers.
The Ridge was designed by Tom Fazio and Beau Welling.
The Ridge is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at The Ridge is 72.
The Ridge plays 7,215 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at The Ridge is 148.





