Mount Summit Golf Course (Farmington, PA)

The historic Summit Inn sits high atop the mountain, harkening to days of yesteryear when the hotel wasn't just a place to stay on vacation, but was the vacation. 

(The fourth offers unbelievable views!)

At some time in the 1920's, the owners at the Summit Inn decided to invest in a nine hole course. The course was routed up and over the hill, and basically, uses the slope of the mountain to dictate strategy and shot values. There's very little architectural value, but it added to the amenities and activities that people, especially wealthy people, were looking to do at that time. 

There are two historical footnotes attached to the Summit Course. The 1935 US Open winner Sam Parks Jr was the head pro in 1931. Being from Pittsburgh, and with the Great Depression starting, Mr Parks was more than happy to take the job at the lil nine hole course.

(The view of the fourth hole from the tee.)

The other footnote had a bigger impact on modern golf architecture. Pete Dye's father got stuck in Farmington, and found himself at the Summit Inn. With nothing to do, he started hitting balls around the course and became enamored with the game. He would later build nine holes at Urbana, where Pete would pick up the game, and ultimately become the greatest modern golf architect of our time. 

(The 200 yard par three sixth plays uphill to a green just over the rise of the hill. Just hitting it in regulation is an accomplishment.) 

The golf course is free when you stay at the inn Monday through Thursday. Be prepared to hit off a variety of lies. The steak dinner with golf package is very popular. I give it a 2 (however it's hard to argue with free, and more fun than hitting range balls.)