That’s a tough one, the four of us on the trip talked about it and there was some definite disagreement…
I’d put The Loop at the top of my list. I think it helped that we saw it both directions, but it has some of the most ridiculous green complexes I’ve ever played. I do generally agree with @Tron that they’re too pushed up, and penal. I’m not sure I’d feel comfortable recommending that anyone over about a 15 handicap play it, unless they’re willing to throw score out the window and just enjoy the craziness.
Second I’d go with Diamond Springs. We got stuck behind some folks there for a family reunion that were beyond loaded. It made for a slow round, with so many laughs I think it probably skewed my rankings a bit. We were also ahead of a group of older retired guys giving each other the needle, which reminded me a bit of my regular group at home. It’s a place I could absolutely see myself playing every day. After our round I had the most incredible brisket sandwich outside of Texas (and actually including a couple of meals there too). I’m not actually sure the course alone deserves the second spot, but our experience during the round and the vibes of the place influenced me for sure.
Third I’d put The Mines. We were the last group to finish at sunset, and had a buddie’s first hole in one during the round. As a group I think we shot a 63 (best ball). It reminded me quite a bit of a more tame version of Greywalls. A really enjoyable collection of par 3s, great conditioning, and the way it just pops up after driving through an industrial part of downtown is awesome. (I believe the other three guys on the trip all put The Mines at the top of their list - definitely as the top DeVries)
Next Forest Dunes. I played my best round of the trip here. Conditioning was great, and the views of the clubhouse coming back along 8, 9 and 17 and 18 made for some cool pictures. In general though it reminded me of a bunch of other courses I’ve played. Of the two courses on the property I felt like they’ve got a grower and a show-er. FD is definitely the show-er. There’s nothing wrong with that, but if I was splitting 100 rounds among these course this position in the ranking would reflect how often I’d play it.
Last I’d put Pilgrim’s Run. The vibes here were the worst of the trip by a fairly sizeable margin. It felt really basic and sterile compared to the other courses on the trip. The greens had really interesting internal contours, but outside of a couple of noteable holes I found it to be a somewhat forgettable place.
If I was splitting 10 rounds between the courses I’d go:
2 Loop Red
2 Loop Black
2 Diamond Springs
2 Mines
2 Forest Dunes
Also, the Bootlegger was a ton of fun and shouldn’t be missed. If we would’ve stayed up there for more than one night I’m sure it would’ve been one of my favorites too.