What is Horseshoe Pond like?
Horseshoe Pond sits in Maquoketa, one of 1 course in the city and 292 across Iowa. The layout runs 4 holes to a par of 12 over 1,276 ft, averaging roughly 319 feet per hole. That is a comfortable middle distance where fairway drivers do most of the work.
The terrain is prairie/open — wide open prairie fairways, which puts the emphasis on big arms and wind management. Exposed prairie layouts let you throw everything you have, but a crosswind will move a disc thirty feet off line before it lands.
ThrowSpot rates the course moderately demanding overall, making it players who have their form mostly sorted. Expect a genuine test without being punished for every miss. This is the level most recreational players score best on. Most groups finish in about 45 minutes, though a busy weekend morning can add half an hour of waiting on the tee.
What discs should you bring to Horseshoe Pond?
For a course like this, a full bag, including distance drivers and something overstable for wind covers the majority of shots. Open ground means wind is the real hazard. An overstable disc you trust into a headwind is worth more here than an extra ten feet of distance.
If you are not sure what matches your arm speed, the disc selector converts your throwing distance into a speed ceiling and specific mold recommendations. Because the fairways are open here, it is also worth checking the wind calculator before you play on a breezy day.
Cost and access
This course is free to play, like the majority of the 7,008 courses in the ThrowSpot directory. There is no booking system and no check-in — turn up and play. Most park courses are open dawn to dusk; hours can change seasonally, so it is worth checking locally before a very early or late round.
Amenities at Horseshoe Pond
Amenity information comes from PDGA course records and may not reflect recent changes. If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Getting to Horseshoe Pond
Maquoketa, IA — free parking is listed for this course.
Other disc golf courses near Horseshoe Pond
More disc golf near Maquoketa
Horseshoe Pond is the only PDGA-listed course in Maquoketa, but Iowa has 292 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in Iowa.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Horseshoe Pond?
Horseshoe Pond has 4 holes with a total par of 12. The course measures 1,276 ft, averaging about 319 feet per hole.
Is Horseshoe Pond free to play?
Yes. Horseshoe Pond is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is Horseshoe Pond good for beginners?
It is rated intermediate difficulty, so newer players should expect a challenging round. Expect a genuine test without being punished for every miss. This is the level most recreational players score best on.
How long does it take to play Horseshoe Pond?
About 45 minutes for a typical group on 4 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is Horseshoe Pond located?
Horseshoe Pond is in Maquoketa, Iowa, at coordinates 42.05540, -90.66233. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Horseshoe Pond?
For this layout, a full bag, including distance drivers and something overstable for wind covers most shots. Open ground means wind is the real hazard. An overstable disc you trust into a headwind is worth more here than an extra ten feet of distance.