Are you a golf fanatic? Maybe just a golf enthusiast? (Maybe you know someone who loves the game?) Well, if you’re in Summit County, Colorado, you’re in luck!
The county is no stranger to outdoor sports – and while golf may not be the first thing you think of when you think “Colorado,” it’s definitely worth checking out. With stunning mountain views, fresh alpine air, and a wide variety of courses to choose from, Summit County is a golfer’s paradise.
Whether you want to tee up with some friends or are looking to gift a round to someone special, there are plenty of options for golfing in Summit County. The first step is to decide where you want to play – and luckily, there are plenty of fantastic courses to choose from.
Breckenridge Golf Club
Located in the heart of Summit County, Breckenridge Golf Club is a must-visit for any golfer. The club boasts three championship nines – the Bear, the Beaver, and the Elk – all designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus.
The Bear nine was the first to open in 1985, built on what was once a tent city for miners seeking their fortunes in gold. Today, the course offers a challenging round of golf with players seeking birdies instead of nuggets. The Beaver nine followed in 1987, named for the beaver ponds scattered along holes 6, 8, and 9. Observant golfers may also notice rock piles or “tailings” left over from the area’s mining days.
In 2001, the club expanded with the addition of the Elk nine, offering the most elevation change of the three courses and stunning panoramic views of the Ten-Mile mountain range.
Playing at an elevation of over 9,300 feet, each nine offers a true mountain golf experience. Golfers can enjoy breathtaking views of the snowcapped Colorado Rockies from every hole, as the course winds through dense wooded areas, open native grasslands, and wetland areas. Keep an eye out for local wildlife during your round – you might spot beaver, deer, elk, moose, or even a bear!
Keystone Resort
Keystone Resort offers golfers two unique courses to choose from: The River Course and Keystone Ranch.
The River Course, designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry, is a par-71 course that stretches from 4,758 to 6,886 yards. Opening on May 10th and running through October 6th, this course is known for its stunning mountain views and challenging layout that winds along the Snake River.
Keystone Ranch is a par-72 course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. This course, open from May 17th to October 6th, ranges from 5,041 to 7,017 yards and offers a classic mountain golf experience with elevation changes and scenic vistas of the surrounding peaks.
Both courses offer a variety of tee boxes to accommodate players of all skill levels, and the resort provides rental clubs for those who need them. Keystone also offers golf lessons, clinics, and family programs to help introduce the next generation to the game.
For those looking to make a golf getaway out of their visit, Keystone offers stay-and-play packages that include lodging discounts of up to 15% when combined with a round of golf. As an added bonus, guests who book their lodging directly with the resort receive free golf on their day of arrival, making Keystone a hard deal to beat for golf enthusiasts.
The Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, The Raven Golf Club at Three Peaks in Silverthorne, Colorado, is a must-play for any golfer seeking a true mountain golf experience. The full-service club offers an 18-hole course designed by Tom Lehman and Hurdzan/Fry, providing a challenging yet enjoyable round for players of all skill levels.
The course features undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers that demand precise shot-making, all while showcasing the stunning beauty of Summit County. Golfers can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks as they navigate the meticulously maintained greens and fairways.
Beyond exceptional golf, The Raven at Three Peaks offers a variety of amenities and services for members and guests alike. The clubhouse features dining options, allowing players to refuel and relax after a round. Membership opportunities are available for those looking to make The Raven their home course, with benefits including access to exclusive events, tournaments, and a tight-knit community of golf enthusiasts.
The club also hosts custom-tailored events, from weddings to charity tournaments and corporate outings. The experienced staff works closely with event organizers to create unforgettable experiences that capitalize on the stunning mountain setting and first-class facilities.
Copper Creek Golf Course
Perched high in the Rocky Mountains, Copper Creek Golf Course is a true gem. Boasting the title of “America’s Highest Golf Course,” Copper Creek sits at an impressive elevation of 9,700 feet, with its highest tee box reaching 9,863 feet.
Designed by the renowned father-son duo of Pete and Perry Dye, this unique course offers an unforgettable golfing experience. The thin mountain air at this altitude allows golfers to drive the ball up to 20% further with the same effort – so you’ll impress with less effort!
While the official golf season at Copper Creek is limited due to its high-altitude location, die-hard enthusiasts have been known to play outside the core season, sometimes even using dayglow balls to navigate any lingering snow patches.
After a thrilling round at Copper Creek, golfers can unwind and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Copper Village. JJ’s Rocky Mountain Tavern is a popular spot for post-game food and drinks, offering the perfect way to cap off a memorable day on America’s Highest Golf Course.
Prep Your Game at The Sports Buffet
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer looking to tackle the challenging courses of Summit County or a casual player eager to experience the beauty of mountain golf, there’s no better way to prepare for your alpine golfing adventure than with a visit to The Sports Buffet in Silverthorne.
With our state-of-the-art HD golf simulators, you can practice your swing, perfect your short game, and even familiarize yourself with some of the world’s most renowned courses, all from the comfort of a private room. This innovative virtual golf experience allows you to hone your skills and build confidence before hitting the real links at any of Summit County’s breathtaking courses.
So, before you tee off at a Summit County golf course, stop by! The Sports Buffet is the perfect way to kick off your Summit County golf getaway and ensure you’re ready to conquer the highest fairways and most challenging greens the Rocky Mountains offer.
