University Ridge derives its name from the landscape features left by the last retreating glacier. The course sits on the terminal moraine, where the Wisconsin Glacier stopped, forming the backbone of the ridge that separates the land into groups of rolling hills and valleys. The natural ridge dictated course construction and the designers followed the contours of the land to create a natural setting that overlooks the City of Madison. University Ridge is a member of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program which promotes protecting water quality, conserving natural resources, and providing wildlife habitats. The Ice Age Trail, one of eight National Scenic Trails in the U.S., also runs through a portion of the golf course. With five sets of tees ranging from 5,005 to 7,259 yards, University Ridge offers something for players of every ability level. The wide open front nine rolls through a preserved prairie and marshland, while the first six holes of the back nine are cut out of a dense Wisconsin woodland. The course opens up again at the 554-yard signature 16th hole, which features three fairways and 16 bunkers. The 18th is the perfect finishing hole as a climb of 182 feet between woodland and prairie is required to complete the 413 yard par 4.
