Colorado is home to some of the most scenic and challenging public golf courses in the country, perfect for both avid golfers and casual players.
Here are the top five public golf courses in Colorado: Pole Creek Golf Club, The Broadmoor Golf Club – East Course, Red Sky Ranch & Golf Club, Bear Dance Golf Club, and Fossil Trace Golf Club.
Keep reading for a more detailed explanation of what makes each of these courses exceptional.
Pole Creek Golf Club (Tabernash)
Pole Creek Golf Club, nestled in the heart of Tabernash, Colorado, offers golfers an unparalleled experience with its 27-hole setup across three distinct courses.
Known for its stunning mountain views and diverse layout, it’s a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
Overview
Pole Creek Golf Club is uniquely designed with three courses: The Ranch, The Meadow, and The Ridge.
Each course provides a different golfing experience, allowing players to enjoy a variety of challenges and landscapes.
The Ranch offers rolling terrain and wide fairways, perfect for those who enjoy a more traditional golf experience.
The Meadow, true to its name, features lush, open spaces with gentle slopes.
The Ridge, the most challenging of the three, presents dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking mountain vistas, making it a favorite for more experienced golfers.
Course Highlights
Pole Creek is celebrated for its well-maintained greens and varied terrain.
The meticulous care given to the greens ensures a smooth and consistent play surface, while the diverse topography of the courses keeps the game interesting and challenging.
Golfers can expect a mix of open fairways, strategic bunkers, and natural hazards that require thoughtful play.
Playing Experience
To get the most out of your game at Pole Creek, consider these preparation tips:
- Club Selection: Bring a range of clubs to handle the varied terrain and elevation changes, especially for The Ridge course.
- Hydration and Sunscreen: The high altitude and open spaces mean increased sun exposure and a greater need for hydration.
- Warm-Up: Utilize the club’s practice facilities to get accustomed to the altitude and course conditions.
The best times of year to play at Pole Creek are late spring through early fall.
During these months, the weather is typically mild, and the mountain views are at their most spectacular.
Practical Information
Green fees at Pole Creek Golf Club range from $124 to $144, reflecting the premium quality and maintenance of the courses.
It’s advisable to book your tee times well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Contact the club directly via their website or phone for the most accurate and up-to-date booking information.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodation
Tabernash offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Nearby lodges and resorts provide comfortable stays with easy access to the golf club.
Some recommended places to stay include:
- Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa: A luxurious option with a range of amenities including a spa and fine dining.
- The Vintage Hotel: A more budget-friendly option with cozy rooms and a convenient location.
Apart from golfing, Tabernash and the surrounding area offer various activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Broadmoor Golf Club – East Course (Colorado Springs)
The Broadmoor Golf Club’s East Course in Colorado Springs is a premier golfing destination known for its rich history and breathtaking scenery.
Designed by legendary architects Donald Ross and Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course blends classic design with modern amenities to create a unique golfing experience.
Overview
The East Course at The Broadmoor Golf Club boasts a storied history, with its initial design by Donald Ross in 1918 and a later renovation by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1952.
This combination of historic and contemporary design elements provides a distinctive golfing experience that appeals to a wide range of players.
The course features a mix of classic design principles, such as strategic bunkering and undulating greens, along with modern touches that enhance playability and enjoyment.
Course Highlights
The Broadmoor East Course consistently ranks among the top courses in the country, a testament to its exceptional design and maintenance.
Golfers can expect lush, meticulously maintained fairways that provide a perfect playing surface.
The course offers stunning views of the Cheyenne Mountain, adding a scenic backdrop to every round.
Its national rankings and numerous accolades highlight its status as a must-play destination for serious golfers.
Playing Experience
Navigating the East Course requires a strategic approach.
Here are some tips to enhance your playing experience:
- Course Management: Pay attention to the layout of the fairways and the positioning of bunkers. Strategic shot placement is key to avoiding hazards.
- Greens Reading: The greens are known for their subtle breaks and fast speeds. Spend time on the practice green to get a feel for the pace.
- Elevation Changes: Be mindful of the elevation changes throughout the course, which can affect club selection and shot execution.
The clubhouse at The Broadmoor offers a range of amenities, including fine dining, a pro shop, and locker rooms, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
Practical Information
The green fees at The Broadmoor East Course are on the higher end, reflecting its prestige and quality.
While specific prices are not stated, prospective players should expect premium rates.
The club offers various membership options, providing benefits such as priority tee times and access to exclusive events.
Visitor policies are designed to accommodate guests while maintaining the high standards of the club.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodation
Colorado Springs is home to numerous hotels and lodges that cater to visitors of The Broadmoor Golf Club.
Some recommended accommodations include:
- The Broadmoor Hotel: A luxurious resort with world-class amenities and direct access to the golf course.
- Cheyenne Mountain Resort: Another high-end option offering beautiful views and extensive facilities.
In addition to golfing, Colorado Springs offers a variety of tourist attractions and dining options.
Visitors can explore the nearby Garden of the Gods, take a trip to Pikes Peak, or enjoy the vibrant local dining scene, which features a mix of upscale restaurants and casual eateries.
Red Sky Ranch & Golf Club (Wolcott)
Red Sky Ranch & Golf Club in Wolcott, Colorado, offers an unparalleled golfing experience with two championship courses designed by renowned architects Tom Fazio and Greg Norman.
Set in a luxurious environment with breathtaking views, it stands out as one of the premier golf destinations in the state.
Overview
Red Sky Ranch features two distinct 18-hole courses, each offering a unique golfing experience.
The Tom Fazio course is known for its stunning highland lake and sage-covered hills, creating a picturesque and serene environment.
In contrast, the Greg Norman course is designed with rugged, challenging terrain that tests even the most seasoned golfers.
Both courses are set against the backdrop of the Colorado Rockies, providing spectacular views and a luxurious setting for all players.
Course Highlights
The Fazio course at Red Sky Ranch is celebrated for its beauty and playability.
The highland lake and rolling hills covered in sage provide a tranquil setting that enhances the golfing experience.
The layout is designed to be enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels, with wide fairways and strategic bunkering.
On the other hand, the Norman course offers a more rugged and demanding layout.
Known for its challenging terrain, this course requires precise shot-making and thoughtful course management.
The rugged landscape, with its dramatic elevation changes and natural obstacles, adds a level of difficulty that appeals to experienced golfers looking for a true test of their skills.
Playing Experience
Comparing the two courses, the Fazio course is generally more forgiving, making it a great choice for those seeking a relaxing round with beautiful scenery.
Its wide fairways and generous greens offer a pleasant experience for players of all abilities.
In contrast, the Norman course demands accuracy and strategy, with narrow fairways and difficult approach shots.
Players should be prepared for a challenging round that requires careful planning and execution.
To tackle the Fazio course, golfers should focus on enjoying the views and the more open layout, taking advantage of the wide fairways and aiming for the center of the greens.
For the Norman course, it’s crucial to bring your best game, focusing on precision and strategic shot placement to navigate the rugged terrain successfully.
Practical Information
Green fees at Red Sky Ranch reflect its status as a premier golf destination, with prices typically on the higher end. It’s advisable to check the club’s website for the most current rates and to book tee times well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Membership options are available and provide various benefits, including priority tee times, access to exclusive events, and additional amenities.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodation
Wolcott offers several luxury accommodation options for those visiting Red Sky Ranch.
Nearby resorts and lodges provide high-end amenities and easy access to the golf club.
Some recommended places to stay include:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch: A luxurious resort offering world-class facilities and stunning views.
- The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa: Another high-end option with comprehensive amenities and services.
In addition to golfing, Wolcott and the surrounding area offer various recreational activities.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and fly-fishing, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The area also boasts a range of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual eateries, ensuring a memorable stay.
Bear Dance Golf Club (Larkspur)
Bear Dance Golf Club in Larkspur, Colorado, is a celebrated golfing destination known for its challenging layout and stunning natural scenery.
Designed by PGA Tour player D.A. Weibring and his team, this course offers a unique and memorable golfing experience.
Overview
Bear Dance Golf Club was meticulously designed with the expertise of PGA Tour player D.A. Weibring, ensuring a course that is both challenging and visually appealing.
The course is celebrated for its intricate layout, which takes full advantage of the natural terrain, providing golfers with a captivating blend of challenge and beauty.
The scenic views of the surrounding landscape, including Pikes Peak and the Rocky Mountains, add to the allure of this exceptional golf club.
Course Highlights
One of the standout features of Bear Dance Golf Club is its dramatic elevation changes, which create a dynamic and engaging golfing experience.
These changes in elevation not only add to the challenge but also offer golfers breathtaking views of Pikes Peak and the expansive Rocky Mountains.
The course is thoughtfully designed to incorporate the natural beauty of the area, with each hole offering its own unique vistas and strategic elements.
Playing Experience
To maximize your experience at Bear Dance, consider the following course management tips:
- Strategic Shot Placement: Due to the elevation changes and natural hazards, careful shot placement is crucial. Take time to assess each hole and plan your shots accordingly.
- Club Selection: The varying elevations can affect distance and ball flight. Be prepared to adjust your club selection based on the terrain and conditions.
Bear Dance Golf Club offers a diverse playing experience throughout the year.
In the spring and summer, the course is lush and vibrant, providing ideal conditions for play.
Fall offers a stunning backdrop of changing leaves, while winter presents a different kind of challenge, with cooler temperatures and potentially frosty conditions.
Practical Information
Green fees at Bear Dance Golf Club range from $85 to $150, depending on the season.
To ensure you secure a tee time, it is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak golfing seasons.
The club provides a range of facilities, including a well-stocked pro shop, practice areas, and a clubhouse with dining options.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodation
Larkspur offers several lodging options for those visiting Bear Dance Golf Club.
Whether you prefer a luxurious stay or a more budget-friendly option, there are accommodations to suit your needs.
Some recommended places to stay include:
- Bear Dance Lodge: Located close to the golf course, it offers comfortable and convenient accommodations.
- Larkspur Luxury Retreat: A high-end option with exceptional amenities and stunning views.
In addition to golfing, Larkspur and the surrounding areas provide various attractions and activities.
Visitors can explore the nearby Castle Rock, known for its hiking trails and scenic views, or visit the local wineries and breweries for a taste of Colorado’s craft beverages.
Fossil Trace Golf Club (Golden)
Fossil Trace Golf Club in Golden, Colorado, offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience, integrating prehistoric fossils and geological formations into its design.
This course stands out not only for its challenging play but also for its historical significance.
Overview
Fossil Trace Golf Club is renowned for its exceptional integration of prehistoric fossils and geological formations, making it one of the most unique golf courses in the United States.
Located in Golden, this course allows golfers to play amidst ancient fossil beds and striking rock formations, particularly evident on holes 11 through 15.
These elements provide both a challenging and educational experience, as players navigate a landscape rich in history.
Course Highlights
One of the most captivating aspects of Fossil Trace is its ancient fossil beds and rock formations.
Golfers will encounter remnants of prehistoric creatures, including dinosaur tracks, which have been preserved and incorporated into the course layout.
This blend of natural history and modern golf design creates an environment that is as visually stunning as it is intriguing.
The holes from 11 to 15 are particularly notable for their geological features, offering players a rare opportunity to witness and play around significant historical artifacts.
Playing Experience
Navigating Fossil Trace Golf Club requires an appreciation for both the game and the unique historical context of the course.
Here are some tips for making the most of your round:
- Course Management: Pay close attention to the layout and natural features. The rock formations and fossil beds are not only historical treasures but also strategic elements that can affect your play.
- Club Selection: The varied terrain and geological features may require adjustments in club selection. Be prepared to adapt your strategy to the unique conditions of each hole.
- Appreciate the History: Take time to enjoy and understand the historical significance of the fossils and formations. This adds an enriching layer to your golfing experience.
Practical Information
Green fees at Fossil Trace Golf Club range from $65 to $95, offering an affordable yet high-quality golfing experience.
It is recommended to book tee times in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
The best times to visit are late spring through early fall, when the weather is most favorable, and the course conditions are optimal.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodation
Golden, Colorado, offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors.
Some recommended places to stay include:
- The Golden Hotel: A historic hotel with modern amenities and a convenient location near the golf course.
- Table Mountain Inn: Known for its Southwestern decor and comfortable rooms, this inn provides a cozy stay with easy access to local attractions.
In addition to golfing, Golden boasts numerous historical and recreational spots to explore.
Visitors can tour the Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, hike in the nearby Golden Gate Canyon State Park, or visit the Coors Brewery for a taste of local craft beer.
The town’s rich history and vibrant community make it an ideal destination for both golfers and non-golfers alike.
Conclusion
Colorado's top public golf courses, including Pole Creek, The Broadmoor East Course, Red Sky Ranch, Bear Dance, and Fossil Trace, offer diverse and exceptional golfing experiences.
Each course stands out for its unique features, challenging layouts, and stunning scenery.
Whether you're seeking historical intrigue, breathtaking views, or top-tier facilities, these courses provide something for every golfer.
