Poland Spring Resort

Poland Spring Resort sits in the western Maine town of Poland Spring, roughly 25 miles northwest of Portland, set within the forested, rolling terrain of the Sebago Lakes region. The course holds a well-documented place in American golf history: it is recognized as the first golf course built at a resort in the United States, laid out in 1896 by Arthur Fenn. Donald Ross redesigned the course in 1915, placing it on the Donald Ross New England Trail alongside courses across Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. The course is listed as a National Historic Site. The layout plays to a par 71 over 6,178 yards across 18 holes. Public access is available with reservations accepted up to one week in advance; guests staying at the on-site resort receive a $5–$10 discount on green fees. Price positioning is in the $ range. The course serves as the Maine Coastal sub-trail anchor for the Donald Ross New England Trail, with lodging available on the resort property.