Sedgley Woods
| Sedgley Woods Disc Golf Course | |
|---|---|
| Type | Disc golf course / Recreation |
| Location | East Fairmount Park |
| Coordinates | 40.0020,-75.1880 |
| Area | Within Fairmount Park |
| Established | 1979 |
| Operated by | Philadelphia Parks & Recreation / Philadelphia Disc Golf |
| Features | 27-hole disc golf course, wooded terrain, recreation |
| Hours | Dawn to dusk |
| Transit | SEPTA bus; drive recommended |
| Website | Official Site |
Sedgley Woods is a nationally recognized 27-hole disc golf course in East Fairmount Park, one of the oldest and most respected disc golf courses on the East Coast. The course wound through mature forest and challenging terrain since its establishment in 1979, attracting players from across the region and hosting competitive tournaments throughout the year.[1] It's considered one of the finest disc golf courses in the northeastern United States. That's saying something.
History
Origins
Back in 1979, the course got its start. It was one of the first disc golf courses in the region, born from pioneering efforts in the sport. Philadelphia Disc Golf advocates pushed hard to make it happen, and the Fairmount Park setting provided perfect terrain.
Development
Over the decades, Sedgley Woods didn't stay static. What started as an original 18 holes eventually expanded to 27 holes, with continuous improvements along the way. The course became a tournament destination, attracting serious competitors.
Significance
The course has hosted PDGA-sanctioned events, Am Worlds qualifying rounds, and regional championships. Weekly leagues keep the community engaged. Without Sedgley Woods, Philadelphia's disc golf scene would look completely different.
Course Features
Layout
You'll find 27 holes spread across the property. The original 18 holes split into "Front" and "Back" nines, then they added an extra 9 called "Long". It's a mix of technical and open holes with elevation changes throughout.
Terrain
This is wooded golf. Mature forest canopy covers most of the course, requiring shot-shaping through trees. Roots and obstacles make things interesting. Drainage can be challenging after rain, so conditions vary.
Difficulty
Intermediate to advanced players belong here. It's technical woods golf demanding accuracy and shot precision. The 18-hole par sits at 54. Don't expect an easy day.
Playing the Course
Basics
Here's the good news: it's free to play. Bring your own discs, since there's no rental shop on site. You'll find a course map at the first tee, with tee pads and baskets marking each hole.
Etiquette
Yield to groups ahead of you. Keep pace of play moving. Protect the forest environment and follow course rules. It's not complicated, just common sense.
Tips
The course can get wet and muddy, so bring water and prepare for muddy conditions. Mark your discs clearly since it's wooded and discs disappear easily. Watch for hikers on crossing paths. Bug spray's useful in summer months.
Visiting
Hours
Play from dawn to dusk year-round, weather permitting.
Getting There
Location: Sedgley Drive, East Fairmount Park, off 33rd Street.
By Public Transit: SEPTA Bus 38 and 43 run nearby, but it's a long walk from stations. Honestly, you'll want a car.
By Car: Limited parking exists near Sedgley Drive. Enter from 33rd Street.
Equipment
Bring your own discs. Wear shoes with good traction because the terrain gets tricky. Pack water and a towel if wet conditions are forecast.
Community
Philadelphia Disc Golf
Local organization supports the course through maintenance, weekly leagues, tournament hosting, and new player development. They're the backbone keeping things running.
Tournaments
Regular events happen here. Weekly putting leagues run regularly. Monthly tournaments draw competitors. Annual championships happen seasonally. Charity events occasionally pop up too.
Nearby
- Fairmount Park — Surrounding park
- Strawberry Mansion — Nearby historic house
- East Fairmount Park — Area
- Laurel Hill Cemetery — North
See Also
References
- ↑ "Sedgley Woods". Professional Disc Golf Association. Retrieved December 30, 2025