20 Best Golf Courses in Colorado (2023/2024)

Colorado boasts a remarkable blend of natural beauty and golfing excellence, making it a paradise for golf enthusiasts. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the rolling plains, the Centennial State offers a diverse backdrop for some of the country’s finest golf courses. In this exploration of the 20 best golf courses in Colorado, we delve into the meticulously designed fairways, picturesque landscapes, and rich golfing legacies that define these courses. 

20. Bear Creek Golf Club

Address: 12201 Morrison Rd, Lakewood, CO 80228

Private

As one of the best golf courses in Colorado, the Bear Creek Golf Club boasts an Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay designed 18-hole private course that’s a formidable challenge for any golfer. With undulating greens and various hazards, precision trumps sheer strength here. This 7,000+ yard course rewards accurate shot-making and strategy. It’s a haven for nature lovers too, preserving wildflowers like Indian Paintbrush and Fringed Sage, along with indigenous Crested Wheatgrass roughs. While beginners may find it tough initially, practice pays off amidst the stunning terrain.

19. The Broadmoor Golf Club: West Course

Address: 1 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Public

As part of the historic Broadmoor resort, this Donald Ross-designed course originally opened in 1918 and later expanded by Robert Trent Jones in 1965 offers a rich golfing history. Hosting numerous USGA championships, including the U.S. Women’s Open and U.S. Senior Open, it’s a golfing gem. The current layout boasts the East and West Courses, with the former Mountain Course now closed after a 2016 rockslide.

18. Red Sky Ranch & Golf Club: Fazio Course

Address: 376 Red Sky Rd, Wolcott, CO 81655

Public

Designed by Tom Fazio, this 7,116-yard marvel offers spectacular golf with breathtaking views of Vail’s Back Bowls. It weaves through sage-covered hills, aspen forests, and a highland lake. Fazio’s team has carefully preserved the site’s indigenous vegetation, enhancing the natural beauty of the Rockies. Red Sky Golf Club promises not only exceptional golf but also an encounter with pure Rocky Mountain landscapes. It is undeniably one of the best golf courses in Colorado.

17. Lakota Links Golf Course

Address: 1000 Clubhouse Dr, New Castle, CO 81647

Public

Situated amidst rugged Colorado canyons, Lakota Links, designed by James Engh, offers world-class golf with captivating mountain vistas. Easily accessible along Interstate 70, it’s perfect for a day trip from Aspen, Vail, or Grand Junction. Its 7,111-yard layout accommodates all skill levels and features exhilarating elevated tee boxes, dropping up to 100 feet to the fairway.

16. Country Club of the Rockies

Address: 676 Sawatch Dr, Edwards, CO 81632

Private

This Member-owned private club in the Vail Valley boasts a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, a culinary gem in VISTA, and year-round activities. The course, opened in 1985, offers a links-style design with rolling terrain, four holes along the Eagle River, and water on eleven of eighteen holes. Meticulous maintenance ensures pristine conditions. The practice facilities are top-notch, making it one of the best golf courses in Colorado.

15. The Country Club At Castle Pines

Address: 6400 Country Club Dr, Castle Rock, CO 80108

Private

Nestled at nearly 7,000 feet above sea level, The Country Club at Castle Pines offers a remarkable Colorado country club lifestyle just minutes south of Denver. The club recently completed a transformative $21 million enhancement, introducing a host of country club amenities, including a cliffside pool, fitness center, and racquet sports facilities. These additions have further enriched the club’s year-round active culture. Yet, the crown jewel remains the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, offering a unique private mountain golf experience in Denver. This course seamlessly integrates into the stunning Rocky Mountain landscape, providing members with an unparalleled golfing adventure amidst breathtaking mountain views, rugged terrain, and incredible wildlife.

14. Roaring Fork Club

Address: 100 Arbaney Ranch Rd, Basalt, CO 81621

Private

At Roaring Fork Club, members savor the epitome of private golf with two distinct and captivating experiences. Being one of the best golf courses in Colorado, one presents rolling hills and open meadows, while the other embraces the soothing presence of the river and surrounding woods. The club boasts an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature course renowned for its classic golf features, including small greens, tight approaches, varying elevations, fine bent grass tees, and greens that exude stunning beauty. Five of the course’s holes gracefully follow the swift-flowing waters of the Roaring Fork River, while another five meander through pristine wetlands and crystal-clear lakes teeming with trout. 

13. TPC Colorado

Address: 2375 Tpc Pkwy, Berthoud, CO 80513

Public

Distinguished as Colorado’s only PGA TOUR managed course, TPC Colorado’s championship golf course stands as a testament to meticulous design by Arthur Schaupeter Golf Course Architects. It’s crafted with the infrastructure to host professional tournaments and can stretch to a formidable 7,991 yards for TOUR players. However, the course offers recreational golfers multiple tees on each hole, allowing them to tailor their experience, ranging from an enjoyable 4,157 yards.

TPC Colorado is all about putting the joy of golf in players’ hands, providing numerous play options on each hole. This allows golfers to capitalize on their strengths and preferences, pursuing birdies where they feel confident and playing safe when needed. The par-72 layout offers a balanced mix of short and long holes, providing a comprehensive tour of the stunning landscape. It is definitely one of the best golf courses in Colorado.

12. Pradera Golf Club

Address: 5225 Raintree Dr, Parker, CO 80134

At the Club at Pradera, one of the best golf courses in Colorado, golf isn’t just a game; it’s an adventure. This golf course beautifully blends modern Irish influences with Colorado’s distinctive charm, creating an enthralling experience for golfers of all skill levels. The spring, summer, and fall seasons are abuzz with men’s and ladies’ leagues, tournaments, and events, accompanied by an extensive Junior Golf Academy. Pradera’s Clubhouse, meticulously designed by award-winning architect Marsh & Associates, embodies the essence of Colorado—open, bright, natural, and rich in native woods and stone. 

11. Red Sky Ranch & Golf Club: Norman Course

Address: 376 Red Sky Rd., Wolcott, CO 81655

Public

Greg Norman’s reputation as a golf course designer mirrors his legendary golfing career—marked by a passion for excellence. At Red Sky Golf Club, Norman masterfully allows the treasures of the natural landscape to dictate the flow of play. Rugged rock outcroppings, gnarled knots of scrub oak, dramatic gulches, and wildflower meadows collectively contribute to an unparalleled wilderness golf experience. This 7,580-yard (Par 72) course is privileged to showcase the finest sunsets in the Vail Valley, casting a silhouette against the majestic Castle Peak. 

10. Redlands Mesa Golf Course

Address: 2325 W Ridges Blvd, Grand Junction, CO 81507

Public

The Golf Club at Redlands Mesa aims to provide its guests with a world-class golfing experience at Colorado’s number one golf course. The views here are unparalleled, and the course itself is both fun and challenging. Nestled beneath the slopes of jagged buttes, south of Grand Junction, Colorado, and in the shadow of the towering pink and red sandstone face of the Colorado National Monument, Redlands Mesa offers an experience akin to playing golf along the bottom of the Grand Canyon, with glimpses of the Garden of the Gods.

This spectacular course covers over one-third of its 500-acre area, creating a world-class golf course that promises stunning, dramatic vistas throughout. With 11 elevated tees, 37 bunkers, and unique hole shaping, golfers of all skill levels are sure to find challenges on this championship-grade course.

9. Maroon Creek Club

Address: 10 Club Cir, Aspen, CO 81611

Private

Nestled in the stunning landscape of Aspen, the Maroon Creek Club is an exclusive 18-hole private golf course designed by Tom Fazio. Since its opening in 1996, it has consistently ranked among Colorado’s finest. Stretching over 7110 yards, this challenging course offers golfers a unique experience amidst breathtaking surroundings. With seven sets of tees catering to various skill levels, it combines natural beauty with a test of skill. Maroon Creek Club stands as a testament to the artistry of golf course design and is a coveted destination for golf enthusiasts seeking both a rewarding game and the serenity of Colorado’s mountainous terrain. These together make it one of the best golf courses in Colorado.

8. Ravenna Golf Club

Address: 11118 Caretaker Rd, Littleton, CO 80125

Private

For some, golf transcends a mere game; it’s a communion with nature beneath the warm western sun. Ravenna Golf Club offers precisely that – a chance to connect with the outdoors on a beautifully designed, meticulously maintained 18-hole golf course. Situated in Colorado, this course is renowned for its unique and scenic setting. With 18 signature holes, it presents a diverse range of terrains, promising a new challenge with every swing. Golfers can choose from nine different tees to suit their style and skill level, making Ravenna one of Colorado’s most versatile and captivating courses.

7. Sanctuary Golf Club

Address: 7549 N Daniels Park Rd, Sedalia, CO 80135

Private

Sanctuary Golf Club, located in Sedalia, Colorado, stands as one of the state’s premier golf courses. Its setting within a 220-acre plot, surrounded by 12,500 acres of awe-inspiring open landscape, makes it truly exceptional. What sets Sanctuary apart is its philosophy of balancing exclusivity with accessibility. Play here isn’t limited by membership but rather linked to charitable support, benefiting various non-profit organizations. Designed to harmonize with the fragile ecosystem, Sanctuary is not just about golf; it’s about stewardship and good citizenship. This unique approach elevates Sanctuary Golf Club to a realm where golfing excellence meets community support.

6. The Broadmoor Golf Club East Course

Address: 1 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80906

Public

Located in Colorado Springs on the grounds of The Broadmoor, a historic hotel and resort, The Broadmoor Golf Club boasts a rich golfing heritage. Originally designed by Donald Ross in 1918, the course expanded in 1965 with 18 additional holes by Robert Trent Jones. Hosting multiple USGA championships, including the U.S. Women’s Open and U.S. Senior Open, it’s a hallowed golfing ground. The current layout comprises the East Course and the West Course, offering a diverse golfing experience. While the Mountain Course closed in 2016, The Broadmoor Golf Club remains a celebrated destination for golf aficionados.

5. Denver Country Club

Address: 1700 E 1st Ave, Denver, CO 80218

Private

Established in 1887, the Denver Country Club is not only one of the oldest but also one of the most exclusive private social clubs in the Western United States. Located along Cherry Creek in Denver, it encompasses a 1904 clubhouse and 142 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds. Beyond its historical significance, the club has been a prominent hub for social and athletic activities, attracting influential figures in Colorado’s history. Today, it stands as a testament to tradition and continues to offer a unique and cherished experience to its members. With its rich legacy, it holds the distinction of being the oldest country club west of the Mississippi River and one of the best golf courses in Colorado.

4. Cherry Hills Country Club

Address: 4125 S University Blvd, Cherry Hills Village, CO 80113

Private

Cherry Hills Country Club, situated in Cherry Hills Village, Colorado, is a private club that features an 18-hole golf course designed by William Flynn. Founded in 1922, the club is home to championship-level golf and offers various amenities, including eight tennis courts and a lap pool. The club’s unique 9-hole par three course, the Rip Arnold Course, is named after the club’s head professional from 1939 to 1962. Cherry Hills Country Club hosts the annual pro-member invitational event named after Warren Smith, the head pro from 1963 to 1991. With its rich history and commitment to excellence, the club remains a premier destination for golf enthusiasts.

3. Castle Pines Golf Club

Address: 1000 Hummingbird Dr, Castle Rock, CO 80108

Private

In 1969, Jack Vickers, after moving to Denver, stumbled upon the property that would become Castle Pines Golf Club. It took 12 years of determination to secure the land. With Jack Nicklaus as the course designer, the club opened in 1981. Castle Pines Golf Club offers golfers a world-class experience amidst iconic Colorado scenery. The course layout was meticulously crafted to harmonize with the natural surroundings, resulting in one of the country’s best golf courses. Its legacy as a premier golfing destination is a testament to Vickers and Nicklaus’ dedication to creating a golfing paradise in the heart of Colorado.

2. Colorado Golf Club

Address: 8000 Preservation Trail, Parker, CO 80134

Private

Colorado Golf Club, located southeast of Denver in Parker, opened its doors in 2007 and has quickly become a prominent fixture in the golfing world. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the championship golf course spans 7,604 yards from the back tees, offering a par 72 challenge. With an average elevation exceeding 6,100 feet above sea level, it provides a unique golfing experience. The club’s commitment to excellence is evident through hosting prestigious events like the Senior PGA Championship and the Solheim Cup. Colorado Golf Club stands as a testament to architectural brilliance and offers golfers an unparalleled experience in the picturesque Colorado.

1. Ballyneal Golf Club

Address: 1 Ballyneal Ln, Holyoke, CO 80734

Private

Ballyneal Golf Club, nestled in the northeast corner of Colorado, is not just a golf course; it’s an extraordinary golf experience. Accessible via a dirt road, Ballyneal’s charm lies in its simplicity, natural dunes, and a world-class golf course. The layout offers ample width off the tee for aggressive play while maintaining enough challenges to keep golfers engaged. Designed by Tom Doak, Ballyneal embraces the terrain, featuring natural bunkers, sand dunes, and undulating greens. The remote location imparts a sense of peacefulness and provides an experience rarely found elsewhere. Ballyneal and its pure links-style golfing make it a mecca for golf enthusiasts seeking a rewarding adventure. It is not only one of the best golf courses in Colorado, but is believed to be the best of all. 

Conclusion

Colorado’s golf courses, set against breathtaking backdrops, showcase the state’s passion for the sport and commitment to excellence in design and maintenance. From mountain vistas to serene plains, these courses offer not only challenging play but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in Colorado’s natural beauty. As we conclude our exploration of the 20 best golf courses in Colorado, we invite you to continue your golfing adventures across the United States. 

Visit GolfBiz’s News to explore top golf courses in other states and discover the rich tapestry of golfing experiences that await enthusiasts nationwide.