The bright lights illuminate the putting greens as the sound of a roaring waterfall echoes through the property. A cheerful coyote grins as four Chronicle reporters make their way to the counter window. After paying the entry fee and selecting equipment, the group makes their way to the 18-hole course, and twilight settles over the area.

Coyote Crossing is a mini golf course located on the Carol Stream and West Chicago border, just off North Avenue, operated by the Carol Stream Park District, who granted permission for this story. Though nearly 20 years old, the course looks relatively new, and is open from May to mid-October each year. The park often offers twilight golf – in addition to themed nights – and the Chronicle joined in on the action toward the end of the season.

At 8 p.m. on a Saturday night, the course was quiet, and filled with families who had just finished baseball games at the adjoining park. The Coyote Crossing staff was pleasant, and provided a good deal of information about what it is like working at the mini golf course.

When ready to partake in some golf, visitors have the option of a variety of different golf balls to play with. Each ball is shaped the same size, but Coyote Crossing offers 12 different colors guests can pick from, ranging from red to purple, and black to white. 

After picking a ball and club, guests walk past small fountains bubbling with bright blue water: a series of bridges allows visitors to cross the waterways with ease. In the fall, the entire area is lined with a mix of green and orange trees. 

Players square off on the green, trying to sink the ball in the hole. Several of the holes contain bumps in the green, winding curves, and obstacles. 

At night, the obstacles can make it hard to see a ball and its distance to the hole; choosing the right color ball can make a major difference.

Even at night, the brilliant blue color of the water is evident. According to staff member Trevor Z., the color “makes it look more appealing.”

Although he was not completely certain what was added to the water to bring out its bright coloring, he speculated, “They probably just use chemicals to kill pesticides.”

A large fountain sits next to one of the holes, providing a dramatic effect. At night, it can be difficult to capture the streaming water, but the fountain is situated in hollow rocks, some of which contain speakers for the music that is piped in.

The course takes 45-60 minutes to complete, depending on the number of players and lighting conditions.

When visitors complete their evening of mini golf, there are two other games, bags (corn hole) and a ladder toss, they can play if as well. According to Trevor Z., both are popular options for birthday parties, in particular.

After the games, guests can decide to sit by the campfire for a little while: a great spot to sit with friends or family and ponder life, especially on a summer or autumn evening.

Normally, one’s evening of mini golf would end there: however, reporters are curious, and often want to know more about a given spot or event. While heading toward the exit after a game of golf, Chronicle staff noticed the entrance to the basement. Staff member Trevor Z. was willing to bring reporters down to the basement – an area few guests are allowed to see.

Behind-the-scenes, the basement is a storage area, and houses the HVAC and water equipment. 

Back up top, the exit awaits: until next season.