Winchendon is a short, narrow course with small greens (with many breaks) and hilly fairways that are basically untouched from the day Ross redesigned them in 1926. Some of the bunkers and tee sizes have been modified over the decades. It requires an accurate short game, and local knowledge helps the golfer overcome the often tricky lies.

The course features bent grass greens with narrow native grass fairways and rough. There are no homes on the fairways, allowing for magnificent views of the mountains and thousands of trees of many varieties.

One of the most striking views in New England golf may be the scene at the number one hole looking down from the 15th tee. Playing this course when the leaves change color is especially picturesque. The vivid reds, golds and oranges of the fall foliage are everywhere on this heavily wooded, yet open-fairwayed course.

Here is a course where Ross maximized the topography, keeping all its very best features. As little earth as possible was moved, and like many Ross courses, it looks far easier than it is. Ross lovers will love Winchendon very much, indeed.

(From "Great Donald Ross Golf Courses You Can Play" by Paul Dunn and B.J. Dunn)