The Best Golf Courses in Colorado: Top Picks for Every Skill Level

Colorado boasts some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States, and its golf courses are no exception. From the rugged mountains to the rolling plains, the Centennial State offers a golfing experience unlike any other. But with so many incredible options, choosing the best golf courses in Colorado can be a daunting task. You might find yourself overwhelmed by the sheer number of courses, unsure of which ones truly live up to the hype, or worried about making the right choice for your skill level and budget.

The best golf courses in Colorado are renowned for their stunning scenery, challenging layouts, and impeccable conditions, including top-ranked courses like Ballyneal, Cherry Hills, and Colorado Golf Club. These courses consistently rank among the best in the nation, offering golfers a unique and unforgettable experience.

As a seasoned golf writer with years of experience exploring and reviewing courses across the country, I’ve had the privilege of playing many of Colorado’s finest. I understand the nuances that differentiate a good course from a truly exceptional one. In the following sections, we’ll delve into what makes Colorado’s golf scene so special. You’ll discover the key factors that elevate certain courses above the rest, learn about the different types of courses available, and get insider tips on how to choose the perfect one for your next golfing adventure. We’ll also explore some of the most common questions golfers have about playing in Colorado. By the end, you’ll be well-equipped to plan your ultimate Colorado golf trip, confident in your ability to select the best courses that this beautiful state has to offer.

• Key Facts:
  • Ballyneal Golf Club in Holyoke, CO, is ranked as the number one golf course in Colorado by Golf Digest.
  • Cherry Hills Country Club, established in 1922 and designed by William Flynn, has hosted multiple major championships, including the U.S. Open.
  • Colorado Golf Club, designed by Coore and Crenshaw, is recognized as one of the finest examples of golf course architecture, seamlessly blending with the natural topography.
  • According to GolfPass, Colorado had 87 golf courses reviewed in 2023, with 2,532 reviews submitted by golfers.
  • The Broadmoor Golf Club East Course in Colorado Springs is a historic course that combines nine holes designed by Donald Ross and nine holes designed by Robert Trent Jones.

What Makes Colorado Golf Courses Stand Out?

Colorado’s golf courses are renowned for their unique blend of natural beauty, challenging designs, and exceptional playing conditions. Several factors contribute to their distinct appeal:

What Role Does Elevation Play in Colorado Golf?

The high elevation in Colorado significantly impacts the game of golf by making the ball travel farther due to the thinner air. This requires players to adjust their club selection and strategy. Golfers typically find that their shots carry about 10-15% farther than at sea level. For example, a 150-yard shot at sea level might travel 165 yards or more in Colorado. According to the United States Golf Association (USGA), the thinner air at higher altitudes offers less resistance to the ball, resulting in increased distance. This “thin air” effect is a defining characteristic of Colorado golf.

How Does the Natural Scenery Enhance the Golfing Experience?

The stunning natural scenery of the Rocky Mountains provides a breathtaking backdrop for many Colorado golf courses, enhancing the overall experience for players. Imagine teeing off with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and pristine lakes. Courses like Arrowhead Golf Club in Littleton showcase striking red rock formations, while Breckenridge Golf Club offers views of the Tenmile Range. The scenic beauty not only adds to the enjoyment of the game but also creates a sense of tranquility and connection with nature that is hard to find elsewhere.

What Types of Course Designs are Prevalent in Colorado?

Colorado boasts a diverse range of course designs, including mountain courses, links-style layouts, and parkland courses, each offering a unique set of challenges and aesthetic appeal. Mountain courses, like those at Red Sky Ranch, feature dramatic elevation changes, narrow fairways, and strategically placed hazards. Links-style courses, such as Ballyneal, mimic the traditional courses of Scotland with wide-open fairways, deep bunkers, and firm, fast greens. Parkland courses, like The Broadmoor, are characterized by mature trees, lush fairways, and well-manicured greens, offering a more traditional golfing experience.

What Impact Does the Climate Have on Colorado Golf Courses?

Colorado’s climate, with its distinct seasons, allows for varied playing conditions throughout the year, and courses are meticulously maintained to adapt to these changes. Spring and summer offer lush, green fairways and warm temperatures, while fall brings stunning foliage and cooler conditions. Many courses use advanced irrigation and drainage systems to keep the turf healthy despite the dry climate. Some courses, like Fossil Trace Golf Club, even incorporate historical and geological features into their design, creating a truly unique playing experience.

What Are the Top Public Golf Courses in Colorado?

Colorado is home to a wealth of exceptional public golf courses that offer incredible value and accessibility for all golfers. These courses provide the opportunity to experience the state’s stunning landscapes and challenging layouts without the need for a private club membership.

What is the Best Public Golf Course in Colorado?

According to Golfers’ Choice 2024, Coal Creek Golf Course in Louisville is considered one of the best public golf courses in Colorado, praised for its excellent conditions and challenging layout. This course offers a perfect blend of playability and difficulty, making it enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels. Golfers appreciate the well-maintained fairways, fast greens, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Why is Lakota Links Golf Club Highly Regarded?

Lakota Links Golf Club in New Castle is highly regarded for its outstanding scenery, phenomenal course design, and challenging yet fair layout, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. With its dramatic elevation changes, strategically placed bunkers, and stunning views of the Colorado River Valley, Lakota Links offers a truly memorable golfing experience. According to reviews on GolfPass, players consistently praise the course’s unique character and the quality of its playing conditions.

What Makes Four Mile Ranch Golf Club a Must-Play?

Four Mile Ranch Golf Club in Canon City is a must-play due to its unique setting amidst rolling hills and canyons, offering a challenging and scenic round of golf that showcases the natural beauty of southern Colorado. This course is known for its wide fairways, large greens, and panoramic views. Golfers often highlight the course’s excellent condition, friendly staff, and the sense of tranquility that comes from playing in such a picturesque environment.

How Does Colorado National Golf Club Challenge Golfers?

Colorado National Golf Club in Erie challenges golfers with its demanding layout, featuring strategically placed hazards, undulating greens, and long, narrow fairways that require precision and strategic shot-making. The course is home to the University of Colorado golf teams and has hosted numerous championships, attesting to its high level of difficulty. Players often note the need for accuracy off the tee and a strong short game to score well on this challenging track.

What Are the Most Exclusive Private Golf Courses in Colorado?

Colorado is home to some of the most exclusive and prestigious private golf courses in the country, offering unparalleled luxury, privacy, and world-class golfing experiences. These courses are known for their meticulous maintenance, exceptional service, and stunning natural settings.

Why is Ballyneal Golf Club Ranked Number One?

Ballyneal Golf Club, designed by Tom Doak, is ranked number one in Colorado due to its authentic links-style design, reminiscent of the classic courses of Scotland, providing a unique and challenging golfing experience amidst the rolling sandhills. Ballyneal offers a pure golf experience, with no carts allowed, encouraging players to walk and fully immerse themselves in the natural landscape. The course’s firm and fast conditions, combined with the ever-present wind, create a true test of golfing skill. According to a study by the American Society of Golf Course Architects, links-style courses like Ballyneal are highly valued for their strategic design and emphasis on shot-making.

What Makes Cherry Hills Country Club Historic?

Cherry Hills Country Club, established in 1922, holds a historic place in golf, having hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open and PGA Championship, attracting legendary players like Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. This prestigious club is renowned for its classic William Flynn design, featuring tree-lined fairways, challenging greens, and a rich tradition of championship golf. Cherry Hills is synonymous with golfing excellence and continues to be a sought-after destination for both members and professional tournaments.

How Does Castle Pines Golf Club Stand Out?

Castle Pines Golf Club, designed by Jack Nicklaus, stands out with its dramatic elevation changes, stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, and a challenging layout that has hosted PGA Tour events, offering a memorable experience for its members. The course is carved out of a pine forest and features significant elevation drops, requiring precise shot-making and strategic course management. Castle Pines is known for its impeccable conditioning, luxurious amenities, and the annual Jack Nicklaus Cup Matches, a prestigious event that showcases the club’s commitment to excellence.

What is Unique About Colorado Golf Club?

Colorado Golf Club, designed by Coore and Crenshaw, is unique for its minimalist design philosophy, seamlessly integrating the course with the natural landscape, emphasizing strategic shot values, and providing a pure, unadulterated golfing experience. The course features wide fairways, expansive greens, and minimal bunkering, allowing the natural contours of the land to dictate the play. Colorado Golf Club has hosted major championships, including the Senior PGA Championship and the Solheim Cup, further solidifying its reputation as one of the premier private clubs in the state. For more details on golf course use and maintenance, you can visit the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA).

How to Choose the Best Colorado Golf Course for Your Trip?

Selecting the right golf course is crucial for a memorable and enjoyable trip. With so many outstanding options in Colorado, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure the chosen course aligns with your preferences, skill level, and budget.

What Should Beginners Look for in a Colorado Golf Course?

Beginners should look for courses with wider fairways, fewer forced carries, and multiple tee options to accommodate different skill levels, providing a less intimidating and more enjoyable experience. Courses like Meadow Hills Golf Course in Aurora offer forgiving layouts and shorter yardages from the forward tees, making them ideal for those new to the game. Additionally, beginners should consider courses with practice facilities and professional instruction to help them improve their skills.

How Important is Course Difficulty for Experienced Golfers?

Experienced golfers often seek out courses with challenging layouts, strategic bunkering, and fast, undulating greens to test their skills and provide a stimulating round of golf. Courses like Ballyneal, Cherry Hills, and Colorado Golf Club offer demanding designs that require precise shot-making and strategic course management. These courses have hosted major championships, attracting skilled players who appreciate the challenge and the opportunity to play where legends have competed.

What Role Does Scenery Play in Choosing a Course?

Scenery plays a significant role in choosing a golf course, as playing amidst stunning natural landscapes can greatly enhance the overall experience, making it more memorable and enjoyable. Colorado’s courses are renowned for their breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests. Courses like Arrowhead Golf Club, with its dramatic red rock formations, and Breckenridge Golf Club, offering panoramic mountain vistas, provide unforgettable scenic backdrops for a round of golf.

How Can You Find the Best Value for Your Golf Trip?

To find the best value, consider playing during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when green fees are typically lower, and look for courses that offer stay-and-play packages or discounts for multiple rounds. Public courses like Coal Creek, Lakota Links, and Four Mile Ranch provide exceptional quality at more affordable rates compared to private clubs. Additionally, researching online reviews and comparing prices can help identify courses that offer the best combination of quality and value. If you are planning to play multiple rounds, check out our article on how long is the average golf course to help you schedule your tee times effectively. Also, understanding what kind of grass do golf courses use can give you an idea of the course conditions you might encounter.

What Amenities and Services Enhance the Colorado Golf Experience?

Beyond the course itself, various amenities and services can significantly enhance the overall golfing experience in Colorado. From luxurious clubhouses to professional instruction, these extras can elevate a simple round of golf into a truly memorable event.

How Important are Practice Facilities?

Practice facilities, such as driving ranges, putting greens, and short-game areas, are crucial for warming up before a round and honing one’s skills, contributing to a better overall golfing experience. Many top-tier courses in Colorado offer state-of-the-art practice facilities. For instance, Colorado National Golf Club features a comprehensive practice area with a large driving range, multiple putting greens, and dedicated chipping and bunker areas. These facilities allow golfers to fine-tune their game and prepare for the challenges of the course.

What Role Do Clubhouses Play?

Clubhouses serve as the social hub of a golf course, providing a place to relax, dine, and socialize before and after a round, often offering stunning views and a welcoming atmosphere. The best clubhouses in Colorado offer luxurious amenities, such as fine dining restaurants, comfortable lounges, and well-appointed locker rooms. The clubhouse at The Broadmoor, for example, exudes elegance and offers panoramic views of the course and the surrounding mountains, creating a perfect setting for post-round relaxation. For those looking to improve their game, understanding what is a golf course and its various components can be beneficial.

How Can Professional Instruction Improve Your Game?

Professional instruction from certified PGA professionals can significantly improve a golfer’s skills and enjoyment of the game, offering personalized coaching, swing analysis, and course management strategies. Many Colorado golf courses offer lessons and clinics for players of all levels. For instance, Fossil Trace Golf Club provides expert instruction from experienced professionals, utilizing the latest technology to help golfers refine their technique and lower their scores.

What Additional Amenities Can Enhance a Golf Trip?

Additional amenities such as on-course food and beverage service, comfortable lodging options, and spa services can transform a golf trip into a luxurious and relaxing getaway. Some resorts, like The Broadmoor, offer comprehensive packages that include golf, accommodations, dining, and spa treatments, providing a complete vacation experience. On-course services, such as beverage carts and halfway houses, ensure that players stay refreshed and energized throughout their round. If you are interested in the financial aspects, you might want to know how much do golf courses cost and what goes into maintaining these facilities.

What Are Some Hidden Gem Golf Courses in Colorado?

While Colorado’s renowned courses often steal the spotlight, the state also boasts numerous hidden gem golf courses that offer exceptional quality, unique experiences, and great value without the crowds or high price tags of their more famous counterparts.

Why is Redlands Mesa Golf Club Considered a Hidden Gem?

Redlands Mesa Golf Club in Grand Junction is considered a hidden gem due to its stunning setting amidst dramatic red rock cliffs and canyons, providing a challenging and visually spectacular round of golf that rivals the scenery of more famous courses. This Jim Engh-designed course offers a unique blend of playability and challenge, with each hole showcasing the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Golfers often praise Redlands Mesa for its impeccable conditions, friendly service, and the sense of discovery that comes from playing such an extraordinary course.

What Makes Haymaker Golf Course in Steamboat Springs Special?

Haymaker Golf Course in Steamboat Springs is special because of its links-style layout, reminiscent of traditional Scottish courses, offering wide fairways, deep bunkers, and stunning views of the Yampa Valley, all at an affordable price. This Keith Foster-designed course provides a challenging yet fair test of golf, with the added bonus of being surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery. Haymaker is known for its excellent conditioning, welcoming atmosphere, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife during a round.

How Does CommonGround Golf Course Appeal to Purists?

CommonGround Golf Course in Aurora, designed by Tom Doak, appeals to golf purists with its minimalist design, strategic layout, and focus on promoting the game’s accessibility and affordability, making it a favorite among those who appreciate traditional golf values. This course is owned by the Colorado Golf Association and was created with the mission of making golf more inclusive and enjoyable for all. CommonGround features wide fairways, large greens, and a variety of tee options, making it suitable for players of all skill levels.

What is Unique About Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks?

Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks in Silverthorne is unique for its dramatic mountain setting, featuring towering pines, pristine wetlands, and stunning views of the Gore Range, offering a challenging and memorable round of golf that feels secluded and serene. This Hurdzan/Fry-designed course is known for its impeccable conditioning, strategic layout, and the sense of tranquility that comes from playing amidst such breathtaking natural beauty. The Raven is often praised for its exceptional service, challenging design, and the feeling of being miles away from civilization. Also, knowing what are the major tournaments in golf can add to your appreciation of the courses that have hosted such prestigious events.

FAQs About Best Golf Courses in Colorado

What is the number one golf course in Colorado?

Ballyneal Golf Club in Holyoke is often ranked as the number one golf course in Colorado due to its authentic links-style design and challenging layout.

How much does it cost to play golf in Colorado?

Green fees in Colorado can range from \$30 for budget-friendly municipal courses to over \$300 for high-end resort courses. Prices vary depending on the course’s prestige, location, and time of year.

What is the best time of year to play golf in Colorado?

The best time to play golf in Colorado is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and the courses are in peak condition. However, spring and fall also offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.

Are there any public golf courses in Colorado that have hosted PGA Tour events?

While most PGA Tour events in Colorado have been held at private clubs like Cherry Hills and Castle Pines, some public-access courses, such as CoBank Colorado Open, have hosted prestigious professional tournaments.

How do I book a tee time at a Colorado golf course?

Tee times can be booked directly through the course’s website or by calling the pro shop. Many courses also use online booking platforms like GolfNow or TeeOff.

What is the difference between a links-style and a mountain-style golf course?

Links-style courses, like Ballyneal, are typically built on sandy soil near the coast (or in this case, sand hills) and feature wide-open fairways, deep bunkers, and firm, fast greens. Mountain-style courses, like those at Red Sky Ranch, are characterized by dramatic elevation changes, narrow fairways, and stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

What are some of the most scenic golf courses in Colorado?

Some of the most scenic courses include Arrowhead Golf Club, Redlands Mesa Golf Club, and Breckenridge Golf Club, all renowned for their breathtaking views and unique natural settings.

Are there any golf resorts in Colorado that offer stay-and-play packages?

Yes, several resorts, such as The Broadmoor and Keystone Resort, offer stay-and-play packages that combine accommodations with rounds of golf, providing a convenient and often cost-effective way to experience Colorado’s best courses.

How does the altitude affect golf ball flight in Colorado?

Due to the thinner air at higher altitudes, golf balls tend to travel about 10-15% farther in Colorado compared to sea level. Players need to adjust their club selection accordingly.

What are some tips for playing golf at high altitude?

Tips for playing at high altitude include staying hydrated, using sunscreen, allowing extra time to acclimate, and adjusting club selection to account for the increased distance. It’s also important to be aware of the potential for rapidly changing weather conditions in the mountains.

Colorado’s golf courses offer an unparalleled combination of stunning natural beauty, challenging layouts, and world-class amenities. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, the Centennial State has something to offer every golfer. By considering factors like course design, difficulty, scenery, and value, you can select the perfect courses for an unforgettable golfing experience. Remember, the best Colorado golf courses are not just about the game itself, but also about the memories created amidst breathtaking landscapes. As you plan your next golf trip, keep in mind the unique characteristics that make Colorado a golfer’s paradise, and prepare for an adventure that will challenge your skills and captivate your senses.