Reno’s mix of mountain scenery and high-desert elevation makes it a surprisingly strong golf destination.
The five best golf courses near Reno are Montreux Golf & Country Club, LakeRidge Golf Course, Somersett Golf & Country Club, Sierra Sage Golf Course, and Wolf Run Golf Club—each offering a distinct playing experience.
Keep reading for a breakdown of what makes each course stand out.
Montreux Golf & Country Club – Where Championship Golf Meets Alpine Luxury
Set in the pine-studded foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Montreux Golf & Country Club brings together world-class golf with the privacy and polish of an exclusive resort-style community.
If you're after a pristine, high-altitude course once trusted by the PGA Tour, Montreux delivers the full package—provided you have access.
Championship-Caliber Course Design
Jack Nicklaus designed the layout in 1997, shaping 7,472 yards of alpine terrain into a challenging yet playable experience for serious golfers.
From the Golden Bear tees, Montreux carries a course rating of 75.3 and a slope of 141, signaling a layout that rewards precision and penalizes mistakes.
The elevated setting, roughly 5,500 feet above sea level, not only adds breathtaking mountain views but also affects ball flight, allowing longer drives—though shot control becomes just as critical.
One of the most talked-about features is the 17th hole, a par-4 that starts with a dramatic 138-foot drop from tee to fairway.
A stream lines the fairway, pulling your focus and your aim.
It’s the kind of hole that requires both strategy and nerve, and it’s part of what makes Montreux memorable even for seasoned players.
Proven Tournament Pedigree
For two decades, Montreux was the home of the PGA Tour’s Reno-Tahoe Open (1999–2019), putting its conditions and layout under the spotlight year after year.
That longevity speaks to the course’s ability to challenge pros while remaining fair—something few private clubs manage so consistently.
The course has also hosted U.S. Open qualifiers and various regional championships, reinforcing its reputation for top-tier playability.
Amenities Beyond the Fairway
Montreux isn’t just about golf. It’s a full-service country club, offering members access to a long list of upscale amenities:
- A fine dining clubhouse with seasonal menus and wine selections
- Fitness center equipped for strength and cardio training
- Tennis courts and pickleball for cross-training or casual play
- Resort-style pool and spa for families or post-round relaxation
The club's social calendar is also active, featuring member tournaments, events, and private dining nights that add depth to the membership experience.
It’s designed for both lifestyle and leisure, making it appealing for those looking to combine golf with year-round community engagement.
Membership Access and Availability
Montreux is strictly private. There’s no public access or daily fee play, so playing here requires a membership—or an invitation from someone who has one.
This exclusivity maintains the course’s high standards and quiet atmosphere, and it's a major selling point for those seeking a premium golf experience without crowding.
For business owners, executives, or golf enthusiasts looking to host clients in a refined setting, Montreux provides one of the most polished backdrops in northern Nevada.
It’s not just a golf course—it’s an environment built around privacy, performance, and elevated living.
If you’re considering membership, it’s best to contact the club directly for pricing and options, as availability may vary based on demand and residency requirements.
Some memberships include access to broader community perks, including hiking trails and year-round events within the gated Montreux development.
LakeRidge Golf Course – Scenic, Accessible, and Skill-Tested
If you're looking for a public course that feels upscale without the membership price tag, LakeRidge Golf Course hits the sweet spot.
Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this Reno favorite delivers scenery, strategy, and convenience—all just a few minutes from downtown.
A Smartly Designed Public Layout
Stretching 6,715 yards from the Jones tees, LakeRidge offers a layout that's both approachable and thought-provoking.
The course rating of 71.6 and slope of 134 reflect a design that challenges without overwhelming.
Strategic bunkering and well-placed water hazards keep you thinking through every hole, rewarding smart play and punishing anything too casual.
LakeRidge plays fast and fun for mid-handicappers but still tests the game of experienced golfers.
The routing is efficient and walkable, with elevation shifts that add both visual interest and club selection complexity.
The Iconic 15th Hole
The showstopper here is the par-3 15th.
Elevated tee boxes overlook Lake Stanley, and the green sits on an island 140 feet below—one of Nevada’s most photographed holes.
It’s a bucket-list shot that blends beauty with pressure.
The hole is short, but the drop, water, and wind combine to make club choice and tempo critical.
It’s the kind of hole you’ll remember long after the round is over.
Consistent Local Favorite
LakeRidge has earned multiple “Best of Reno” honors, and its reputation holds up.
Locals appreciate the blend of accessibility and course conditioning, while visitors enjoy the mountain backdrop and laid-back atmosphere.
The course tends to draw a wide range of players—from first-timers to corporate groups—without compromising the pace of play or overall experience.
Location and Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of LakeRidge is how close it is to the city center.
Located just 4.5 miles from downtown Reno, it's easily reachable for both spontaneous weekday rounds and planned weekend outings.
This makes it a great option for business travelers or locals wanting a solid round without a long drive.
Booking is simple, with tee times available up to 14 days in advance.
Group bookings are also supported, which is useful for tournaments, team outings, or weekend golf trips.
Rates and Value
Pricing is competitive and transparent:
- Peak Season (Friday–Sunday): $90–$100 for 18 holes
- Afternoon discount (after 1 PM): $75–$85
- Weekday and off-peak rates are even more budget-friendly
Compared to many public courses with this level of design pedigree and scenery, LakeRidge offers excellent value.
The course delivers enough difficulty to keep things interesting but is forgiving enough for newer players not to feel out of place.
Somersett Golf & Country Club – Risk-Reward in the Reno Highlands
Set high in Reno’s northwestern hills, Somersett Golf & Country Club blends dramatic terrain with a risk-reward layout that favors players who think strategically from tee to green.
Though it's a private course, limited access for residents and select platforms gives some flexibility for non-members who want a taste of high-altitude golf with a championship feel.
Elevated Play on a Strategic Layout
Designed by Tom Kite in collaboration with Roy Bechtol and Randy Russell, this 7,252-yard course plays longer than it looks thanks to elevation shifts and a design that demands accuracy over brute strength.
With a course rating of 74.5 and a slope of 142, Somersett isn’t overly penal, but it does require you to stay focused—especially on tee shots, where misalignment can cost you.
The routing follows the natural contours of the land, and elevation changes are a constant presence, both adding challenge and unlocking wide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
It’s not uncommon to find yourself clubbing up or down depending on which way the slopes run, making this a course where local knowledge pays off quickly.
A Signature Hole That Defines the Course
The standout 14th hole is a 588-yard par-5 with a double dogleg and water protecting the green.
It’s a classic example of a high-risk, high-reward design—you can try to reach it in two, but the margin for error is razor thin.
This hole encapsulates what Somersett is about: rewarding bold play, but only if it’s well-executed.
For players who enjoy mapping out their round as much as playing it, this course offers plenty of opportunities to plan and adapt.
Design Details That Raise the Bar
Visually and tactically, Somersett is full of character. The course includes:
- Seven lakes that come into play on multiple holes
- Sixty-two white sand bunkers that force directional decisions and reward smart play
- 400-foot-wide fairways in spots, providing room for aggressive tee shots—balanced by tighter landing zones in others
Despite the wide fairways in some sections, this is not a grip-it-and-rip-it course.
Players need to control their distances and manage their lines to score well.
Well-Rounded Practice Facilities
Somersett’s practice options are a step above what you’ll find at most clubs.
It features a full-length driving range for warm-ups and technical work, along with separate putting and chipping greens.
What really sets it apart, though, is the indoor short game arena—a space designed for year-round refinement of touch shots, bunker play, and more.
For players serious about improvement, this kind of facility can make a real difference.
Membership and Access Options
Somersett is a private club, but its setup offers some leeway for non-members.
Residents of the Somersett community are allowed to play up to six rounds per year, with pricing set at $135 during the peak season and $85 in the off-season.
That means if you’re living nearby, you can access high-end golf without a full commitment.
Additionally, some limited access may be available through select online booking platforms, though availability can vary throughout the year.
This hybrid model gives Somersett a semi-private feel—ideal for those who appreciate exclusivity but still want occasional outside access.
For businesses or groups hosting in the area, it’s worth checking whether rounds can be arranged through the club’s staff or as part of local promotions.
Sierra Sage Golf Course – A Budget-Friendly Classic with Modern Flair
Sierra Sage Golf Course offers a reliable, affordable golf experience without feeling stripped down.
This long-standing public course strikes a nice balance between playability and subtle challenge, and recent updates keep it relevant for today’s golfers.
A Classic Layout That Still Holds Up
Originally opened in 1960, Sierra Sage has kept its identity as a welcoming, walkable course that doesn’t try to be flashy.
Measuring 6,555 yards from the Blue tees, it’s approachable in length, and its 70.0 course rating with a 126 slope supports that accessibility.
But don’t assume it’s a pushover—smaller, quick greens demand touch, and elevation changes across the course call for smart club choices.
Generous fairways give room off the tee, but many holes feature strategically placed bunkers or sloping terrain that requires players to think one step ahead.
It’s a great course for all skill levels—newer players can learn the game here, and seasoned golfers can stay sharp without feeling overwhelmed.
Blending Simplicity with Surprise
One of Sierra Sage’s low-key strengths is how it uses natural terrain to add variety.
You’ll find just enough movement in the land to keep things interesting without making the course physically demanding.
For those who like to walk, this course is very accommodating, which is a welcome detail in a region known for its elevation.
To add a bit of modern fun, Sierra Sage also offers GolfBoards—motorized surf-style carts that let you ride the fairways in a more dynamic way.
It’s a novelty, sure, but it also speeds up play and appeals to a younger or more casual crowd.
Practice Where It Matters
The practice setup here is better than you might expect for a budget-friendly course.
You get an all-grass driving range—no mats—which makes a big difference for serious warm-ups.
There are also two separate putting greens and a chipping area with a practice bunker, giving you space to work on every part of your short game.
These features make Sierra Sage a good pick for players trying to improve without spending on private club dues.
Whether you want to groove your swing before a round or stop by for a quick short-game session, the facilities are straightforward and effective.
Value and Accessibility
Where Sierra Sage really stands out is in its value.
Rates are among the most affordable in the Reno area, especially when you factor in the quality of the layout and facilities.
While specific prices vary depending on the time and day, it's consistently one of the best bargains for 18 holes in the region.
Booking is also refreshingly simple. You can reserve tee times online through the course website or via their mobile app.
The system is user-friendly and reliable, with same-day and advance bookings both available.
Wolf Run Golf Club – Collegiate Caliber with Mountain Views
Wolf Run Golf Club delivers a tournament-ready experience with the added bonus of sweeping Sierra Nevada views.
As the home course for the University of Nevada’s golf teams, it's designed for competitive play, yet still welcomes public golfers ready for a challenge.
A Championship Layout with Strategic Bite
Designed by John Fleming, Wolf Run stretches to approximately 7,100 yards and takes full advantage of its Sierra Foothills setting.
The elevation shifts across the course aren’t just scenic—they actively influence shot selection, especially on holes with raised greens or downhill approaches.
Terrain contours are used smartly throughout, creating uneven lies, sidehill stances, and rollouts that demand thoughtful planning.
This course isn’t just about length—it’s about angles.
The layout favors players who can shape shots and manage risk, especially on the many holes where water hazards and strategically bunkered landing zones come into play.
Greens are well-guarded, subtly contoured, and often sloped to make lag putting tricky.
The overall setup favors players who are confident in club selection and have a solid short game to back it up.
Designed for Competition, Open to the Public
As the official home course of the University of Nevada’s men’s and women’s golf teams, Wolf Run is kept in excellent condition throughout the year.
The fairways and greens are maintained to collegiate standards, and pin placements often mimic tournament-style setups—offering a taste of what elite players face in competition.
Despite this pedigree, Wolf Run remains fully open to public play.
That makes it one of the rare courses where everyday golfers can test themselves on the same turf as top-level collegiate athletes.
It’s especially popular with single-digit handicappers and players looking to sharpen their game on a layout that doesn’t let you coast.
Scenic Setting with Serious Practice Options
Throughout the round, you'll catch views of Mount Rose and the surrounding foothills—especially striking in early morning or late afternoon light.
The course’s location gives it a more natural, unspoiled feel than city-based courses, and the design complements that openness with a layout that rarely feels crowded.
Practice facilities are a strong point, especially for those looking to train.
There’s a full driving range, a putting green, and a separate chipping green with space to work on different types of approach shots.
An on-site club repair shop adds extra convenience, particularly for players prepping for competition or adjusting equipment mid-season.
Booking and Accessibility
Rates aren’t listed publicly, so it’s best to check the course’s official website or use platforms like GolfNow for up-to-date pricing and availability.
Wolf Run accommodates individual tee times as well as group reservations, but demand can fluctuate depending on university schedules and tournament play, so booking ahead is recommended.
Although it caters to serious players, the course is fully walkable, and carts are available.
The clubhouse is modest but functional, offering check-in, merchandise, and refreshments without overextending into luxury territory.
Conclusion
Reno’s top golf courses offer a diverse mix of private prestige, public access, and high-altitude scenery.
Whether you're after exclusive membership perks or a well-designed public round, there’s a course here that fits.
Explore each option based on your playing style, budget, and access needs to find the best fit for your next round.
