Asheville, NC, is home to several outstanding golf courses, with the top five being Biltmore Forest Country Club, The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course, Asheville Municipal Golf Course, Reems Creek Golf Club, and Black Mountain Golf Club.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what makes each course unique and which one might be the best fit for you.
Biltmore Forest Country Club (Private)
Tucked away in Asheville’s historic Biltmore Forest community, Biltmore Forest Country Club offers an exclusive golfing experience on one of North Carolina’s most distinguished private courses.
With a rich history dating back to 1922 and a masterful design by Donald Ross, this course provides a refined and challenging round for those who have the privilege of playing it.
Course Overview
Biltmore Forest Country Club stands out as one of the premier golf courses in North Carolina, thanks to its classic Ross design and meticulous course maintenance.
Established in 1922, it embodies the golden age of golf course architecture with its strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and natural landscape integration.
Every element of the course encourages thoughtful play, making it a favorite among those who appreciate traditional golf course layouts.
The course maintains pristine fairways and smooth, well-manicured greens, ensuring a top-tier experience for members.
Unlike modern designs that rely on length and artificial hazards, Ross’s layout at Biltmore Forest demands precision, course management, and a strong short game.
The greens are subtly contoured, requiring players to carefully read putts, while strategic bunkering punishes poorly placed approach shots.
Playing Experience
Golfers at Biltmore Forest are treated to a course that challenges both the mind and skill.
With moderate elevation changes, a variety of hole designs, and a balance between difficult and scorable holes, players must adapt their strategies to score well.
The course rewards those who can control ball placement, particularly on approach shots where Ross’s signature green complexes demand precision.
Key aspects of the playing experience include:
- Strategic Shot-Making: The course is not overwhelmingly long, but players must carefully navigate bunkers, sloping fairways, and tiered greens.
- Consistent Course Conditions: As a private club, the course receives exceptional care and conditioning, ensuring firm but fair greens and consistent fairway lies.
- A True Test for All Skill Levels: While experienced golfers will be challenged by the strategic layout, newer players can still enjoy the course by choosing appropriate tees and focusing on accuracy over power.
Membership & Access
Biltmore Forest Country Club operates as a strictly private club, meaning access is reserved exclusively for members and their invited guests.
Unlike semi-private courses that allow some level of public play, only members can schedule tee times, and guest access is subject to club policies.
For those interested in membership, the club maintains a private and selective admission process.
While specific details on membership fees and initiation costs are not publicly available, prospective members typically need:
- Sponsorship from existing members
- Approval through the club’s membership committee
- Financial commitment, including initiation fees, annual dues, and potential spending minimums
Since membership details are not publicly advertised, anyone interested should contact the club directly to inquire about opportunities.
It’s recommended to network within Asheville’s golf or business communities to better understand the process and requirements.
Guest Policies
Guests may play at Biltmore Forest Country Club only when accompanied by a member. The club enforces strict policies regarding:
- Maximum rounds per guest per year (varies by club policy)
- Dress code (typically collared shirts, no denim, and appropriate golf attire)
- Pace of play and etiquette (adherence to traditional golf etiquette is expected)
Since these policies may change or have specific restrictions, guests should confirm the rules with their host member before visiting.
Who This Course is Best For
Biltmore Forest Country Club is best suited for golfers who appreciate a historic, high-end experience. The club’s private nature and classic Ross design make it a prime choice for:
- Serious golfers who value strategic play over power-driven layouts
- Players who enjoy impeccably maintained greens and fairways
- Those looking for an exclusive, members-only atmosphere with rich tradition
For those fortunate enough to gain membership or be invited as a guest, Biltmore Forest delivers a golfing experience steeped in history, strategy, and prestige.
The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course (Resort/Public)
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course combines breathtaking scenery with a challenging yet rewarding Donald Ross design.
Located just minutes from downtown Asheville, this 6,400-yard, par-70 course has been a favorite among golfers since 1926, offering a mix of strategic play and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a guest at the Omni Grove Park Inn or a local golfer looking for a memorable round, this course provides a unique blend of history, challenge, and accessibility.
Course Overview
This Donald Ross-designed layout is a classic mountain course that emphasizes precision over power.
While the 6,400-yard length might seem modest by modern standards, the narrow fairways, small greens, and rolling terrain create a test that demands accuracy and thoughtful club selection.
The course’s historic setting beneath the Omni Grove Park Inn adds to its charm, offering panoramic views of Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains throughout the round.
The well-manicured fairways and smooth greens ensure a high-quality playing experience, making it a popular choice for both resort guests and local golfers.
Key course features include:
- Classic Donald Ross layout with small, undulating greens and well-placed bunkers
- 6,400 yards, par 70, requiring shot precision rather than distance
- Elevation changes that create a dynamic playing experience
- Spectacular mountain views on nearly every hole
Playing Experience
The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course is best suited for golfers who enjoy a strategic approach to the game.
Due to its narrow fairways and well-protected greens, power alone won’t guarantee a good score—accuracy and course management are key.
Golfers will notice that elevation changes play a significant role in shot selection. Many holes have uphill or downhill lies, requiring players to adjust their club choice accordingly.
Approach shots must be carefully placed, as Donald Ross’s signature small greens can be difficult to hold, and any misjudgment can result in a challenging up-and-down opportunity.
Notable aspects of the playing experience:
- Elevation changes add to the challenge and beauty—players must adjust yardages accordingly.
- Small, sloping greens reward precise approach shots—missing in the wrong spot leads to difficult recoveries.
- Narrow fairways demand accuracy off the tee—hitting the right landing areas is crucial to setting up a good approach.
- Strategic bunkering forces careful shot selection—aggressive play can lead to trouble if not executed well.
This course is a great fit for both resort guests and experienced golfers looking for a test of their short game and course management skills.
While beginners can still enjoy the scenic setting, the tight fairways and demanding greens may present a challenge for higher-handicap players.
Public Access & Booking
Unlike private clubs, The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course is open to the public, making it one of the best resort courses in Western North Carolina for golfers looking to experience a historic Ross layout.
Whether you’re staying at the Omni Grove Park Inn or just visiting Asheville, you can book a tee time with ease.
How to book a round:
- Online Reservations: Tee times can be booked through the Omni Grove Park Inn website.
- Pro Shop: Call the course directly to schedule a tee time or check availability.
- Hotel Guests: Those staying at the Omni Grove Park Inn often receive preferred booking times and package deals.
Since this is a popular course, especially during peak seasons (spring through fall), it’s recommended to book tee times well in advance. Walk-ons may be available but are not guaranteed, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Who This Course is Best For
Golfers who appreciate scenic mountain golf with strategic challenges will love this course. It’s particularly well-suited for:
- Visitors looking for a memorable, picturesque golf experience in Asheville.
- Golfers staying at The Omni Grove Park Inn who want a convenient, high-quality round.
- Players who enjoy precision-based golf—navigating small greens and elevation changes.
- Those looking to play a historic Donald Ross course with a rich legacy in North Carolina golf.
With its historic charm, stunning views, and Ross-designed challenge, The Omni Grove Park Inn Golf Course remains a must-play destination for both visiting and local golfers.
Whether you’re tackling its slopes for the first time or returning for another round, this course offers an unforgettable blend of strategy, scenery, and history.
Asheville Municipal Golf Course (Public)
As one of the oldest municipal courses in North Carolina, Asheville Municipal Golf Course has been a staple of the local golf scene since 1927.
Designed by Donald Ross, this public course offers an accessible and affordable golfing experience while maintaining the strategic design elements that make Ross courses so well-regarded.
Whether you're a local looking for a casual round or a visitor wanting to experience a historic course, Asheville Muni provides a straightforward yet rewarding challenge.
Course Overview
Located just minutes from downtown Asheville, this 18-hole, par-72 course offers a mix of flat and hilly terrain, making for a diverse playing experience.
The front nine is relatively flat, allowing for an easier start, while the back nine introduces more elevation changes, adding difficulty and variety to the round.
As a Donald Ross design, the course features:
- Classic layout with strategic bunkering that rewards accuracy.
- Gently sloping greens that test a player’s short game and putting skills.
- Fair but challenging routing that makes the most of the natural landscape.
Over the years, the course has undergone various restoration efforts aimed at preserving Ross’s original design, improving turf conditions, and maintaining the integrity of its historic layout.
While it may not have the luxury amenities of private clubs or resort courses, its charm, affordability, and historical significance make it a favorite among local golfers.
Playing Experience
Asheville Muni provides a balanced test for golfers of all skill levels, with its varying terrain, straightforward fairways, and subtle green complexities.
- The Front Nine: Mostly flat, featuring wide fairways that make it easier to keep shots in play. This portion of the course is well-suited for beginners or players looking to ease into their round.
- The Back Nine: Introduces more elevation changes, demanding more precise shot-making and club selection. The terrain creates natural challenges, making it a more strategic test for experienced golfers.
- Greens and Approach Play: Ross’s design emphasizes positioning on approach shots, as small, subtly sloped greens require careful reading and soft touch around the putting surfaces.
While Asheville Municipal Golf Course is not known for extreme difficulty, it still requires solid fundamentals and good course management to score well.
Its layout allows high-handicap players to enjoy a round while still offering enough challenge for experienced golfers looking to refine their shot-making skills.
Public Access & Booking
Unlike private clubs, Asheville Muni is open to everyone, making it one of the most accessible courses in the region.
- Affordable Green Fees: One of the biggest draws is its budget-friendly pricing, making it an excellent choice for those who want to play regularly without the high costs associated with private or resort courses.
- Tee Time Reservations: Can be made online through the course’s website or by calling the pro shop directly. Walk-ups are welcome, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during weekends and peak seasons.
- League Play & Events: The course hosts local tournaments, leagues, and junior programs, fostering a strong community golf presence.
For golfers traveling to Asheville, Asheville Muni provides an excellent opportunity to play a historic Donald Ross course without the exclusivity of private membership.
Who This Course is Best For
This course is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious golfers who want a quality round without resort pricing.
- Locals looking for an easygoing, community-oriented golf experience.
- Visitors wanting to experience a historic Donald Ross course without private membership restrictions.
- Casual players and beginners who prefer a course that is playable without being overly punishing.
While Asheville Municipal Golf Course may not be as polished or scenic as the private clubs or resort courses in the area, it delivers a classic, affordable, and enjoyable golfing experience that makes it a staple of Asheville’s golf scene.
Whether you're new to the game or a seasoned player looking for a laid-back round, Asheville Muni is a must-visit for golfers who appreciate history, accessibility, and community golf.
Reems Creek Golf Club (Public)
Located just 10 miles north of Asheville in Weaverville, NC, Reems Creek Golf Club is a hidden gem offering a Scottish Highlands-inspired golf experience.
With its rolling terrain, elevation changes, and panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views, this course delivers a unique and scenic challenge that is both enjoyable and moderately demanding.
Designed by Hawtree & Sons in 1989, it blends elements of classic European course design with the natural beauty of Western North Carolina, making it a favorite for those who love variety in their golf rounds.
Course Overview
Unlike the traditional Donald Ross layouts found at other Asheville-area courses, Reems Creek brings a distinctly European feel to the region’s golf offerings.
The rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens require golfers to think strategically on every shot.
The course layout capitalizes on its mountain setting, creating natural elevation changes that not only make for a beautiful setting but also add complexity to the round.
Reems Creek is known for its excellent course conditions, with well-maintained fairways and greens that roll fast and true.
The course is challenging enough to test experienced players but remains fair and playable for mid-handicappers looking for an engaging but not overly punishing experience.
Some standout aspects of the course include:
- Scottish Highlands-style design, featuring rolling fairways and open sightlines.
- Well-maintained greens and fairways, providing consistent playability.
- Mountain scenery, with stunning views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
- Diverse hole layouts, requiring a mix of long, accurate drives and precise approach shots.
Playing Experience
One of the defining features of Reems Creek Golf Club is its varied and strategic hole designs.
Unlike flatter courses that rely on length to create difficulty, Reems Creek forces players to adjust their game based on changing elevation, doglegs, and strategically placed hazards.
- Elevation Changes – The course’s natural slopes and rolling fairways impact ball flight and club selection, adding an extra layer of strategy. Uphill approaches require extra power, while downhill shots demand precise control.
- Shot Variety – No two holes feel the same, requiring golfers to shape shots, navigate uneven lies, and think about course management. Many tee shots require precision placement rather than sheer distance.
- Strategic Hazards – Well-positioned bunkers and narrow landing areas reward careful shot execution. Water hazards and trees also come into play on certain holes, making accuracy a must.
Despite its challenges, Reems Creek remains very playable for mid-handicap golfers. The multiple tee box options allow golfers to tailor the difficulty to their skill level, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Public Access & Booking
Reems Creek Golf Club is a fully public course, meaning golfers don’t need a membership to play.
Compared to many private or semi-private courses in the region, it offers competitive rates that make it a great value for a high-quality round of golf.
How to Book a Tee Time:
- Online: Tee times can be booked through the Reems Creek Golf Club website.
- By Phone: Call the pro shop to check availability and make reservations.
- Walk-Ins: While tee times are recommended, walk-ins are sometimes accommodated based on availability, particularly on weekdays.
The course also offers membership options and discount programs for frequent golfers, making it a cost-effective choice for those who plan to play multiple rounds throughout the year.
Who This Course is Best For
Golfers looking for a picturesque, moderately challenging, and well-maintained public course will find Reems Creek Golf Club to be a great fit. It’s ideal for:
- Players who enjoy scenic, European-inspired course designs with rolling hills and dramatic elevation changes.
- Golfers seeking a moderate challenge that isn’t overly punishing but still requires smart course management.
- Locals and visitors who want a high-quality public course near Asheville without private club restrictions.
- Mid-handicap golfers who appreciate variety in their round and enjoy courses that demand strategic shot-making.
With its stunning mountain views, diverse hole layouts, and excellent playing conditions, Reems Creek Golf Club is a must-play for anyone looking to experience one of the best public courses near Asheville.
Whether you’re a seasoned player refining your skills or a visitor seeking a memorable round in the mountains, Reems Creek delivers a well-rounded and scenic golfing experience that keeps players coming back.
Black Mountain Golf Club (Public)
Located just 15 miles east of Asheville in Black Mountain, NC, Black Mountain Golf Club is a public course known for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful mountain views, and a mix of flat and hilly terrain.
While it offers an enjoyable round for all skill levels, it’s most famous for its 747-yard par-6 17th hole, which was once recognized as the longest golf hole in the world.
Whether you're a local looking for a fun round or a visitor wanting to experience a piece of golf history, this course provides a scenic and welcoming experience at an affordable price.
Course Overview
Established in 1935, Black Mountain Golf Club has long been a community favorite, offering a well-balanced layout that caters to golfers of all abilities.
The front nine is relatively flat and open, making it a great place to ease into the round.
In contrast, the back nine is more mountainous, introducing elevation changes that create a challenging yet rewarding test.
One of the biggest draws of the course is its historic par-6 17th hole. At 747 yards, this monster hole challenges golfers to think strategically about their shot placement and approach play.
Although many courses have since introduced longer holes, the 17th remains a unique and memorable challenge that attracts players from all over.
The course is known for:
- A mix of open and hilly terrain, providing variety throughout the round.
- A welcoming, laid-back atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for both casual and serious golfers.
- Scenic Blue Ridge Mountain views, offering a peaceful and picturesque backdrop.
- Walkability, especially on the front nine, though some players may prefer a cart for the more mountainous back nine.
Playing Experience
Golfers at Black Mountain Golf Club will find a relaxed and enjoyable playing environment with enough variety to keep things interesting from start to finish.
The front nine is more forgiving, with wide fairways and fewer hazards, making it a great warm-up before tackling the trickier back nine.
Beginners and high-handicap players will appreciate the manageable distances and straightforward layouts early in the round.
The back nine, however, brings more elevation changes, tighter fairways, and well-placed bunkers, forcing players to be more precise with their shots.
The signature 17th hole is a highlight, offering a rare opportunity to test distance and strategy over its 747 yards.
While intimidating at first glance, it’s an exciting challenge that leaves players with a great story to tell.
Despite these challenges, Black Mountain Golf Club remains accessible to all skill levels, thanks to its friendly layout, reasonable pace of play, and forgiving fairways.
Unlike some of the more high-profile courses in the Asheville area, this course focuses on fun and playability, making it a favorite for casual rounds.
Public Access & Booking
As a public course, Black Mountain Golf Club is open to all golfers, with affordable green fees that make it a great value compared to private and resort courses in the region.
Tee times can be booked:
- Online via the course’s website.
- By calling the pro shop to check availability and reserve a spot.
- Walk-ins are accepted, though booking in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and during peak golf season.
The course also hosts tournaments, leagues, and special events, making it an excellent choice for those looking to get involved in the local golf community.
Who This Course is Best For
Black Mountain Golf Club is ideal for:
- Golfers who want to experience a historic par-6 hole—the 17th remains one of the longest in the world.
- Players who enjoy varied terrain, transitioning from flat and open to more mountainous and scenic.
- Casual golfers looking for a laid-back, welcoming course with reasonable green fees.
- Visitors wanting a picturesque mountain golf experience without the exclusivity of private courses.
For those who enjoy golf without the pressure of an overly challenging or expensive course, Black Mountain Golf Club offers a fun, scenic, and historic round that is well worth the visit.
Whether you’re there to conquer the record-breaking 17th hole or simply to enjoy a relaxed round with great views, this course delivers a memorable and enjoyable experience for all golfers.
Conclusion
Whether you're looking for a challenging private course, a scenic resort experience, or an affordable public round, Asheville offers a variety of top-tier golf options.
From the historic Biltmore Forest Country Club to the unique par-6 challenge at Black Mountain Golf Club, each course provides something special for golfers of all skill levels.
No matter your preference, these five courses deliver memorable rounds in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
