Nestled in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park, Sedgley Woods disc golf course offers a unique outdoor experience for players of all skill levels. This 27-hole course has been a fixture in the local disc golf community since 1977, making it one of the oldest permanent pole-hole courses in existence. The course is open to the public year-round from sunrise to sunset, providing ample opportunities for both casual and competitive play.
The Friends of Sedgley Woods, a dedicated volunteer group, maintains the course and organizes regular events. These include weekly tag rounds and monthly tournaments, fostering a strong sense of community among disc golf enthusiasts. The course’s layout takes advantage of the natural landscape, offering a mix of wooded and open holes that challenge players to improve their skills.
Key Takeaways
- Sedgley Woods is a historic 27-hole disc golf course in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park
- The course is maintained by volunteers and hosts regular events for players
- It’s open to the public year-round and welcomes players of all skill levels
History and Overview
Sedgley Woods has a rich history as one of the oldest disc golf courses in the United States. Its creation and evolution have shaped the sport on the East Coast and beyond.
Foundation and Legacy
Sedgley Woods disc golf course was established in 1977 in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. It was founded by Jim Powers, Joe D’Annunzio, and Rick Vlam, who started the Philadelphia Frisbee Club after graduating from Penn State.
The course quickly became a cornerstone of the East Coast disc golf scene. It has hosted numerous tournaments and events over the years, helping to grow the sport’s popularity in the region.
In 1990, the Friends of Sedgley Woods organization was formed. This group has been crucial in maintaining the course and promoting disc golf in Philadelphia.
Course Evolution and Design
Sedgley Woods features one of the oldest permanent pole-hole disc golf courses in the country. The layout has evolved over time to challenge players of all skill levels.
The course design incorporates the natural terrain of Fairmount Park, with tree-lined fairways and elevation changes. It has 27 holes, offering a variety of short and long throws.
In 2017, Sedgley Woods celebrated its 40th anniversary, marking four decades of continuous play. The course’s longevity is a testament to its design and the dedication of its community.
Regular maintenance and upgrades have kept Sedgley Woods relevant and enjoyable for new generations of disc golfers. The course continues to be a beloved destination for both local players and visitors.
Playing the Course
Sedgley Woods offers a challenging and diverse disc golf experience. The course features a mix of open and wooded holes with varied terrain and strategic elements.
Course Layout
Sedgley Woods is a 27-hole disc golf course located in Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. The layout includes 18 main holes and 9 additional holes.
Players can expect a mix of short and long holes. Some holes have alternate basket positions, adding variety to repeat plays.
The course winds through wooded areas and more open park spaces. This mix provides a good balance of technical shots and opportunities for longer drives.
Tee Details and Fairways
Most tees at Sedgley Woods have level cement pavers. A few holes still use rubber flypads.
Fairways range from open grassy areas to narrow, tree-lined paths. Some holes feature significant elevation changes, adding an extra challenge.
The course has blue tees for added difficulty on certain holes. These often require longer or more precise throws.
Tree lines come into play on many holes, forcing players to shape their shots carefully. Accurate drives are key to scoring well.
Signature Holes
While specific hole details aren’t provided in the search results, Sedgley Woods likely has several memorable holes.
Look for holes that make use of the park’s natural features. These might include dramatic elevation changes or particularly scenic wooded areas.
Some holes may have multiple pin positions. This allows for different challenges depending on the current setup.
Pay attention to holes with alternate baskets. Holes 5, 12, 20, 21, 22, and 23 offer this feature, potentially changing how they play.
Competitive Play
Sedgley Woods offers a vibrant competitive scene for disc golf enthusiasts. Players can test their skills in various tournaments and events throughout the year.
Tournaments
Sedgley Woods hosts several PDGA sanctioned tournaments annually. These events attract players from across the region and beyond. The Philadelphia Disc Golf Open is a major highlight, drawing top talent to compete on the historic course.
Monthly tournaments provide regular opportunities for players to challenge themselves. These events cater to different skill levels, ensuring that both novices and experienced players can participate.
Throwback Events celebrate the course’s rich history. These tournaments often feature unique rules or equipment, giving players a taste of disc golf’s earlier days.
Weekly and Monthly Events
Tag rounds are a cornerstone of Sedgley Woods’ competitive scene. These events occur three times a week:
- Thursdays: 5 hours before sunset
- Saturdays: 11 AM (1 PM on second Saturday workdays)
- Sundays: 11 AM
Tag rounds allow players to compete regularly and improve their skills. The format encourages friendly competition and community building among local disc golfers.
Ranking and Tags
The tag system at Sedgley Woods serves as a local ranking method. Players compete for numbered tags, with lower numbers indicating higher ranks.
During tag rounds, players put their current tags on the line. The winner of each group earns the lowest-numbered tag among the participants.
This system motivates players to attend events regularly and strive for improvement. It creates a dynamic and engaging competitive environment for disc golfers of all skill levels.
Community and Culture
Sedgley Woods fosters a vibrant disc golf community. Local players and volunteers work together to maintain the course and grow the sport in Philadelphia.
Friends of Sedgley Woods
The Friends of Sedgley Woods is a dedicated group that keeps the course running. They formed in 1990 after thieves stole ten baskets. The group quickly raised money to replace the stolen equipment.
Today, the Friends continue to play a crucial role. They organize events, handle maintenance, and promote disc golf in the area. Their efforts ensure Sedgley Woods remains a top destination for players.
The group welcomes new members. They encourage locals to join and help preserve this historic course.
Volunteers and Maintenance
Volunteers are the backbone of Sedgley Woods. They handle various tasks to keep the course in great shape. These tasks include:
- Clearing fallen branches
- Mowing grass
- Repairing tee pads
- Updating signage
Regular work days bring the community together. Locals pitch in to tackle bigger projects. This shared effort creates a sense of ownership among players.
The course stays open year-round thanks to these dedicated volunteers. Their hard work ensures everyone can enjoy disc golf at Sedgley Woods.
Local Disc Golf Scene
Sedgley Woods is a hub for Philadelphia’s disc golf community. It hosts regular events that bring players together. These include:
- Weekly leagues
- Monthly tournaments
- Tag rounds
Tag rounds are popular among locals. Players compete for numbered tags, with lower numbers being more desirable. This friendly competition helps improve skills and build relationships.
The course’s central location makes it easy for city dwellers to play often. Many locals visit multiple times per week. This constant activity creates a lively atmosphere and helps new players feel welcome.
Sedgley Woods also serves as a training ground for competitive players. Its challenging layout prepares them for tournaments across the region.
Course Amenities and Information
Sedgley Woods offers a range of facilities for disc golfers. The course layout provides options for players of different skill levels.
Facilities and Access
Sedgley Woods is open to the public year-round from sunup to sundown. It’s free to play, though donations are welcome to help maintain the course. The 27-hole layout includes short holes suitable for beginners and more challenging options for experienced players.
Three practice baskets are available for warming up or honing skills. Most tees have level cement pavers, with a few rubber flypads remaining. New tee signs were installed on holes 1-18 in late 2021, improving navigation.
Navigation and Course Map
Navigating Sedgley Woods is straightforward for new visitors. The Friends of Sedgley Woods often have members on-site to answer questions or provide guidance.
A course map is available to help players find their way around the 27 holes. The layout includes multiple tees and some holes with alternate basket positions. Holes 5, 12, 20, 21, 22, and 23 feature alternate baskets, adding variety to repeat plays.
Players should be aware of other groups, as some fairways are close together. This proximity can lead to discs occasionally crossing paths between holes.
Visitor Experience
Sedgley Woods offers a welcoming environment for disc golf enthusiasts. The course provides amenities and hosts events that cater to players of all skill levels.
Amenities and Tips for Newcomers
Sedgley Woods disc golf course is open to the public year-round from sunrise to sunset. The course features 27 holes, making it a great spot for extended play.
New players can find guidance from friendly regulars who are often around to answer questions. The course layout is beginner-friendly, with most tees having level cement pavers.
There are 3 practice baskets available for warming up before a round. Signs on holes 1-18 were updated in late 2021, helping newcomers navigate the course.
Visitors should be aware that trash and graffiti can sometimes be an issue. It’s a good idea to bring a small bag to carry out any litter you find.
What to Bring
Players should bring their own discs, as rentals are not available on-site. A variety of discs is recommended, including drivers, mid-range, and putters.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the course covers varied terrain. Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Bug spray can be helpful, particularly in wooded areas. Sunscreen is also recommended, as parts of the course are exposed to direct sunlight.
A small towel can be useful for wiping discs or hands. Some players bring a small stool for resting between throws on longer holes.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Sedgley Woods promotes eco-friendly practices and wildlife preservation. The disc golf course works to protect the natural environment while providing recreational opportunities.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Sedgley Woods uses sustainable methods to maintain the course. The Friends of Sedgley Woods organization leads efforts to keep the area clean and minimize environmental impact. They organize regular volunteer cleanup events to remove litter and debris.
The course design works with the existing landscape. Minimal changes are made to the natural terrain. This preserves trees and plants in Fairmount Park. Sedgley Woods avoids using harmful chemicals for maintenance. They opt for manual removal of invasive species when needed.
Water conservation is also important. The course relies on natural rainfall to water vegetation. This reduces strain on local water resources like the Schuylkill River.
Wildlife Preservation
Sedgley Woods serves as a critical habitat for migratory birds and butterflies. The trees and open meadows provide food and shelter for various species. The course helps maintain one of Philadelphia’s few undeveloped meadows.
Course managers work to protect nesting areas during breeding seasons. They educate players about respecting wildlife habitats. Signs remind visitors not to disturb animals or remove plants.
The diverse plant life supports local ecosystems. Native flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Sedgley Woods’ trees offer homes for squirrels, birds, and other small animals.
Getting There
Sedgley Woods disc golf course is in Philadelphia, PA. It’s easy to reach by car or public transit. The course sits next to the Schuylkill River in Fairmount Park.
Directions and Parking
To drive to Sedgley Woods, take I-76 to exit 340B for Girard Avenue. Head east on Girard Avenue and turn right onto Sedgley Drive. The course entrance is on the left after about 0.3 miles. Free parking is available in a lot near hole 1.
Look for the course sign to find the start. The parking area can fill up on busy days, so arrive early if possible. Street parking is also an option along Sedgley Drive if the lot is full.
For GPS, use the address: 3201 Sedgley Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19130.
Public Transportation Options
Several public transit options serve Sedgley Woods. The closest stop is the 15 trolley at Girard Avenue and Sedgley Drive. From there, it’s a short walk to the course.
Bus routes 48 and 32 also stop nearby on Girard Avenue. The Girard Avenue subway station on the Broad Street Line is about a 15-minute walk from the course.
For detailed transit directions, use SEPTA’s online trip planner. Enter “Sedgley Woods Disc Golf” as your destination.
Bikes are welcome at Sedgley Woods. Bike racks are available near the first tee for secure storage while you play.
Beyond the Course
Sedgley Woods is more than just a disc golf course. It’s a gateway to Pennsylvania’s thriving disc golf scene, nearby courses, and opportunities to improve your skills.
Disc Golf in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania boasts a robust disc golf community. The state has over 300 courses, ranging from beginner-friendly to pro-level challenges. Many parks host weekly leagues and tournaments.
The Pennsylvania Disc Golf Association promotes the sport statewide. They organize events, maintain course directories, and support new course development.
Pennsylvania’s diverse landscape offers unique disc golf experiences. Players can enjoy courses in forests, mountains, and urban parks.
Other Nearby Courses
Philadelphia area disc golfers have several options beyond Sedgley Woods. Tyler State Park in Newtown offers a challenging 36-hole course with wooded and open fairways.
Fort Washington State Park has an 18-hole course with elevation changes and technical shots. It’s about 30 minutes from Sedgley Woods.
Stafford Woods in Voorhees, New Jersey is another popular spot. This 18-hole course features a mix of wooded and open holes.
Expanding Your Skills
Improving your disc golf game takes practice and strategy. Focus on form first. Good technique leads to more consistent throws and fewer injuries.
Try field practice to work on distance and accuracy. Throw different discs to understand their flight patterns.
Join a local league or club. Playing with others can push you to improve and teach you new techniques.
Watch pro tournaments online. You’ll see advanced strategies and course management skills in action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players often have questions about Sedgley Woods Disc Golf Course. This section covers key details about the course’s hours, tag system, events, amenities, online community, and layout.
What are the operating hours for Sedgley Woods Disc Golf Course?
Sedgley Woods is open to the public year-round from sunup to sundown. Players can enjoy the course during daylight hours every day of the year, regardless of weather conditions.
How does the tag system work at Sedgley Woods?
The tag system at Sedgley Woods is a friendly competition among regular players. Tags are numbered, and players can challenge others for their tags during rounds. Lower-numbered tags are more desirable, creating ongoing friendly rivalry.
Are there any upcoming events scheduled for Sedgley Woods?
Sedgley Woods hosts monthly tournaments year-round. Players can check the course’s official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date event information.
What amenities and facilities can be found at Sedgley Woods?
The course provides basic amenities for players. Porta Johns are available on site for restroom needs. There are no water hazards on the course, but players should bring their own water.
How can one join the Sedgley Woods Disc Golf community online?
Players can connect with the Sedgley Woods community through various online platforms. The course has an active presence on social media, and there are disc golf forums where players discuss the course and organize meetups.
What type of disc golf layout and terrain can players expect at Sedgley Woods?
Sedgley Woods features 27 holes with three tees per hole. The course is known for its tight play, with many trees and elevation changes. Players can expect a challenging layout that requires accurate shot shaping and scrambling skills.
