Northwood Black

Disc golf course in Morton, IL

Northwood Black – One of the Hardest Courses in the World

Northwood Black isn’t just a course—it’s a test of endurance, skill, and mental fortitude. Created after the 2019 Pro Worlds event, Northwood Black was designed to be a true championship-level layout, demanding precise placement, elite shot execution, and an incredible level of patience.

At nearly two miles long, with tight wooded fairways, punishing rough, and grueling elevation changes, playing even par here is a professional-caliber round (1020-1025 rated).

Overview

Northwood Black is a championship-level gauntlet that blends extreme distance with tight, technical lines through dense woods. Featuring ravines, steep climbs, and punishing rough, it has earned its reputation as one of the toughest courses in the world.

Highlights

  • Used for MPO and FPO divisions during Ledgestone
  • Short and long tee options
  • Concrete pads with elite signage

Signature Holes

  • Hole 1: 400+ ft downhill par 3 that can make or break a round
  • Hole 12: 1,050 ft par 5 through dense woods — one of the most infamous holes in disc golf

Amenities

  • Parking lot
  • Permanent restrooms

Course Conditions & Maintenance

  • Managed by Morton Parks and the Ledgestone crew
  • Seasonal: extremely muddy in spring
  • Heavy rough during summer

Ratings & Reviews

  • UDisc rating: 4.8/5
  • “You don’t conquer Northwood Black. You survive it.”

Local Tips

  • Bring bug spray
  • Carry extra water
  • Expect rounds to take 4+ hours

Driving Directions

Northwood Black
Northwood Park
Morton, IL 61550

Take I-74 to Morton Avenue on the Northbound exit. Turn right onto Courtland Street and then turn left onto Main Street. After crossing the train tracks, you will pass a large dog park on the left. The entrance to Northwood is just ahead on the right side of the road, just before the road begins to turn left. Pavilion is all the way in the park.

🏆 Tournament History: Featured in the 2021-2025 Ledgestone Open.

Course Details

Designed by: Kip Taufer

Year Established: 2021

Course Type: Public, championship-level

Number of Holes: 18

Par: 68

Length: 10500 ft

Elevation Category: Substantial

Basket Types: DGA Mach X

Tee Pad Type: Concrete pads, elite signage