Colorado, known for its stunning landscapes, offers some of the finest golf courses in the country. Here’s a review of the top 10 golf courses in Colorado, ranked based on their design, scenery, and overall experience.
1. Castle Pines Golf Club (Castle Rock)
Castle Pines tops the list for its impeccable course design by Jack Nicklaus and its breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. The course’s rolling terrain and challenging layout make it a must-play. Course was the site of the International Golf Tournment for 21 years, from 1986 to 2006. Also the site for the 2024 BMW championship it August.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 5: A par-3 that requires a precise shot over a ravine.
– Hole 17: A par-5 with a dramatic downhill approach, offering stunning mountain views.
2. Cherry Hills Country Club (Cherry Hills Village)
This historic course, designed by William Flynn, has hosted numerous major championships. Its classic design and challenging greens keep golfers coming back.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 1: A par-4 with a narrow fairway and a challenging approach shot.
– Hole 17: Known for Arnold Palmer’s famous drive in the 1960 U.S. Open, this par-5 requires strategic play.
3. Colorado Golf Club (Parker)
Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Colorado Golf Club features rugged terrain and expansive vistas. The course is known for its natural beauty and strategic design.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 7: A long par-4 with a challenging uphill approach.
– Hole 15: A short par-4 that tempts players to go for the green off the tee.
4. The Broadmoor Golf Club (East Course) (Colorado Springs)
The Broadmoor East Course, designed by Donald Ross and Robert Trent Jones Sr., is renowned for its lush fairways and stunning views of Cheyenne Mountain. I also recommend the West Course. More elevation change but even better views.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 3: A par-4 with a picturesque approach to a well-bunkered green.
– Hole 18: A par-4 finishing hole with a challenging dogleg left.
5. Sanctuary Golf Course (Sedalia)
Sanctuary offers an exclusive and tranquil golf experience. The course, designed by Jim Engh, features dramatic elevation changes and breathtaking scenery. One of the most difficult courses in the state or the USA to play. You need to know someone to get on this one.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 4: A par-4 with a downhill tee shot and a tricky green.
– Hole 15: A par-5 with a double fairway and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
6. Country Club of the Rockies (Edwards)
Nestled in the Vail Valley, this Jack Nicklaus-designed course offers a blend of challenge and beauty with its mountain backdrop and pristine conditions.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 6: A par-3 with a green surrounded by water.
– Hole 12: A par-5 with a split fairway and a scenic approach.
7. Red Sky Golf Club (Fazio Course) (Wolcott)
Tom Fazio’s design at Red Sky Golf Club features rolling terrain and spectacular views of the Vail Valley. The course is known for its immaculate conditions and strategic layout.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 8:*A par-4 with a challenging approach over water.
– Hole 18: A par-5 with a dramatic finish and breathtaking vistas.
8. Aspen Glen Club (Carbondale)
Designed by Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II, Aspen Glen Club offers a beautiful and challenging course along the Roaring Fork River.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 7: A par-3 with a picturesque setting along the river.
– Hole 18: A par-5 with a risk-reward approach to a well-protected green.
9. Bear Dance Golf Club (Larkspur)
Bear Dance, designed by the Bear Dance Design Group, is known for its challenging layout and stunning views of the Front Range. The course is beautifully integrated into the natural landscape.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 5: A par-3 with an elevated tee and a green surrounded by natural beauty.
– Hole 14: A par-4 with a dramatic downhill tee shot and a challenging approach.
10. Rollingstone Ranch Golf Club (Steamboat Springs)
This Robert Trent Jones II design offers a scenic and challenging course in the heart of the Rockies. The course’s elevation changes and mountain views provide a memorable golf experience.
Notable Holes:
– Hole 9: A par-4 with a dramatic downhill approach.
– Hole 16: A par-5 with a challenging tee shot and a scenic approach.
Conclusion
These top 10 golf courses in Colorado offer a mix of challenging layouts, stunning scenery, and unique designs that make them stand out. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, playing any of these courses will be an unforgettable experience.