Coyote Run Golf Course

Coyote Run Golf Course in Flossmoor is a well-designed 18-hole muni layout that travels 6,478 yards from the back tees. Designed by architect Greg Martin and opened in June 2005, the course features a 69.6 rating and 124 slope, placing it in comparable difficulty to courses like Cog Hill #3, Phillips Park, and Cary Country Club. The par 71 setup includes four par-5s and five par-3s, and water plays a significant role here, with hazards affecting 11 of the 18 holes through five substantial ponds. The mostly flat terrain makes for excellent walkability, while generous fairway spacing and minimal tree interference provide forgiveness for errant shots -- things I appreciate.

The course represents a dramatic transformation from its previous incarnation as Cherry Hills Golf Course. The Homewood-Flossmoor Park District had pursued this property for years, facing staunch resistance from ownership. A 1990 Chicago Tribune article captured the tension when Cherry Hills' owner declared "I've said it over and over again, this club is not for sale," despite a $1.9 million park district offer and rumors of eminent domain usage. When years of rumors suggested the owners wanted to sell to property developers instead, the park district exercised eminent domain rights, triggering a legal battle over fair compensation. On February 24, 2003, a Cook County jury set the purchase price at $8.25 million, finally giving the park district control of the 27-hole public facility.

Greg Martin, known for his work at Wilmette, The Preserve at Oak Meadows, and Rich Harvest Farms redesigned the property beginning in September 2003. The original historic Cherry Hills had operated since 1932 with an 18-hole course designed by Harry Collis and Tom Bendelow, plus a David Gill-designed 9-hole executive course from 1966. Martin's renovation converted 27 holes into 18 (plus a 3-hole short course) and created a layout that maintains solid municipal conditioning. It also features square tee boxes that add an upscale touch -- I’m a fan. The 9-minute tee time spacing generally keeps rounds moving efficiently, while homes line only the exterior of the property, preserving the golf experience.

The practice facilities truly shine at Coyote Run. A lighted driving range with grass tees sits alongside a large putting green, while the standout feature is a three-hole practice and teaching course that costs just $5 to play (in 2025). This mini-course serves as an ideal introduction for new golfers. The modern clubhouse houses an extensive pro shop packed with merchandise and Wiley's Grill, named after the border collie who chased geese for 13 years here. The restaurant dominates the clubhouse space with dramatically high ceilings and offers diverse menu options including what may be Chicagoland's largest golf course hot dog(!), earning high marks in my rankings. Wiley's legacy continues with Beatrix, a Tennessee Brindle rescue dog who has taken over the critical goose patrol duties.