The 15th Hole at river ranch

15th hole at River Ranch overlooking the Snake River

Why would David McLay Kidd refer to this project as a “unicorn”?

The golf course at River Ranch is on sand-based land along water with a sharp and supportive ownership group.

But there’s more. And in this case, it’s that natural green complex on the far side of the property that affords Kidd and his crew the opportunity to build something unique, memorable and special. As we break away from the digital series on “Raising River Ranch,” we’re going out to the golf course to check in on the evolution of the 15th hole. 

Watch episode 2, The Ripple Effect, below.

Missed Episode 1? Watch Here

Building the 15th | The Ripple Effect

How do you transform raw land into a golf hole that players will remember for generations?

Perched high above the Snake River, the par-4 15th has evolved through countless sketches, site walks, and design refinements. Watch as David explains the strategic decisions, routing, shot values, natural landforms, and philosophy that shape every detail of a world-class golf hole.

RIVER RANCH REPRESENTS THE COMING TOGETHER OF PEOPLE, VISIONS AND INTERESTS. THIS OWNERSHIP BELIEVES THAT GREAT PLACES ARE BUILT SLOWLY, INTENTIONALLY AND WITH RESPECT FOR WHAT CAME BEFORE THEM.

IT’S A RESORT ROOTED IN A LOVE OF THE LAND AND LOCAL KNOWLEDGE. IT’S INFORMED BY HISTORY AND SHAPED BY A CREATIVE COLLABORATION. ONE THAT VALUES AN EXPERIENCE OVER UNNECESSARY EXCESS, AND LEGACY OVER A FLEETING TREND.