What is Northern Dakota Railway like?
Set in Gardar, Northern Dakota Railway has been on the PDGA course list since 2017. It plays 9 holes, par 27, across 2,970 ft — an average of about 330 feet a hole. That is long enough that you will want a driver you can actually control off the tee.
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 forgiving overall, making it a good first course or a relaxed round. Shorter holes and open landing zones mean errant throws are usually recoverable, which is exactly what a newer player needs. 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 Northern Dakota Railway?
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 Northern Dakota Railway
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 If something here is out of date, the local club is usually the fastest way to confirm.
Other disc golf courses near Northern Dakota Railway
More disc golf near Gardar
Northern Dakota Railway is the only PDGA-listed course in Gardar, but North Dakota has 64 in total. See the nearby courses above, or browse every course in North Dakota.
Frequently asked questions
How many holes is Northern Dakota Railway?
Northern Dakota Railway has 9 holes with a total par of 27. The course measures 2,970 ft, averaging about 330 feet per hole.
Is Northern Dakota Railway free to play?
Yes. Northern Dakota Railway is free to play, with no booking or check-in required.
Is Northern Dakota Railway good for beginners?
Yes. It is rated beginner difficulty, with wide open prairie fairways and forgiving landing zones, which makes it a reasonable first course.
How long does it take to play Northern Dakota Railway?
About 45 minutes for a typical group on 9 holes. Solo players move faster; busy weekend mornings can add 20 to 30 minutes of waiting.
Where is Northern Dakota Railway located?
Northern Dakota Railway is in Gardar, North Dakota, at coordinates 48.58916, -97.87398. Directions are linked on this page.
What discs should I bring to Northern Dakota Railway?
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.