
The Ridge Course
The Ridge at Manitou Golf Club

About this course
The Ridge at Manitou Golf Club occupies a dramatic site in the Muskoka region of Ontario, approximately two hours north of Toronto. Designed by Thomas McBroom and opened in the late 1990s, the course takes full advantage of the Canadian Shield landscape, with holes routed across and around exposed granite outcroppings, dense pine and hardwood forests, and significant elevation changes. The property's natural rock formations and rugged terrain give the layout a distinctive character that differs from the more pastoral settings common to southern Ontario courses. McBroom's design works with the topography rather than against it, incorporating the granite ledges as both visual and strategic elements. Several holes play across valleys or along ridgelines, with tee shots and approaches that must account for substantial elevation drops or climbs. The rock faces and natural vegetation frame many holes tightly, placing a premium on accuracy over distance. Water features appear on select holes, though the primary defense comes from the unforgiving nature of the terrain itself. The Ridge operates as part of the Manitou resort community, which includes accommodations and other recreational amenities suited to the Muskoka cottage country setting. The course attracts both resort guests and regional golfers seeking a layout that showcases the geological drama of the Shield. McBroom, one of Canada's most prolific architects, has designed numerous courses across Ontario, and The Ridge represents his approach to working with challenging, rock-dominated sites that require minimal earthmoving and maximum respect for existing landforms.
Quick facts
- Location
- McKellar, Ontario, CA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 2005
- Designer
- Thomas McBroom
- Holes
- 18
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 6,815 yards
- Difficulty
- 73.3/136
Getting there
The journey to The Ridge at Manitou Golf Club begins most commonly at Toronto Pearson International (YYZ), roughly two and a half hours south by car, though those flying private may opt for the closer Muskoka Airport near Gravenhurst. The drive north traces Highway 400 deep into Ontario's cottage country, where the landscape gradually sheds its suburban sprawl for the granite outcrops and glittering lakes of the Canadian Shield. As you veer west beyond Parry Sound, the final stretch along winding rural roads grows quieter still, the forest thickening until you arrive at McKellar - a hamlet so small and serene that the golf course feels less like a destination than a discovery, tucked into the ancient rock and pine as if it had always been there.

FAQ
Common questions about The Ridge
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
The Ridge was designed by Thomas McBroom.
Yes. The Ridge is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at The Ridge is 72.
The Ridge plays 6,815 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at The Ridge is 136.
The Ridge is a 18-hole course.



