Utah's Hidden Golfing Treasures: Unveiling the State's Top Courses
Utah, the land of stunning landscapes, is not just about skiing and outdoor adventures. It's time to uncover a secret that will delight golf enthusiasts: Utah's incredible golf courses, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and championship-level play. From the majestic mountains to the iconic red rock desert, these courses will leave you in awe.
Here's a glimpse into the 10 best golf courses in the Beehive State, each with its own captivating story and unforgettable experience.
Black Desert Golf Course, Ivins:
This masterpiece by Tom Weiskopf is a 7,500-yard journey through a lava-blasted landscape, surrounded by red rock mountains. It's a short drive from St. George, offering a complete golf experience with green fees, forecaddie, and even a special keepsake. The resort's amenities, including a spa and hiking trails, make it a luxurious escape. Elevate your game with the Stay and Play Package, a true golfer's dream.
Glenwild Golf Club and Spa, Park City:
Golf at Glenwild is a lifestyle. Tom Fazio's design challenges players with a 7,564-yard, par-71 course, featuring strategic bunkering. Located in the heart of Park City, known for its skiing, Glenwild offers a warm and luxurious experience. At over 7,000 feet, golfers enjoy a unique high-altitude game, with the ball traveling further. It's a private club that truly showcases Utah's golfing charm.
Soldier Hollow Golf Course, Midway, UT:
Soldier Hollow is a unique public course with a 36-hole experience built on Olympic history. Designed by Gene Bates, it offers two distinct 18-hole courses. The Gold Course is a championship challenge, with narrow fairways and a stunning view of Heber Valley. The Silver Course is more relaxed, perfect for an enjoyable round. With affordable fees and a short drive from SLC International Airport, it's an ideal choice for golfers of all abilities.
Sand Hollow Resort, Hurricane:
A must-play for golf enthusiasts, Sand Hollow is ranked as the top public course in Utah. This stunning course offers three unique experiences. The championship course is a blend of traditional fairways and dramatic high desert adventure, with holes along red rock cliffs. Holes 12, 13, and 15 are iconic, with the 15th, "The Devil's Throat," requiring precision. The desert conditions add to the challenge, and the views are simply breathtaking.
Wasatch Mountain Golf Course, Midway:
Located in Wasatch Mountain State Park, this 36-hole facility offers two courses, the Lake and the Mountain. The Lake Course is a forgiving, tree-lined experience, while the Mountain Course is more dramatic, winding through the mountain terrain. With panoramic views of Heber Valley, this course is a photographer's dream. Local wildlife adds to the charm, and with fees starting at $85, it's a great value for visitors.
Entrada at Snow Canyon, St. George:
This challenging course in St. George has been reimagined by David McLay Kidd. The new design winds through ancient lava flows and mountain rock, creating a visually stunning and challenging links-style course. The rugged desert landscape contrasts with the beautiful playing area. While it's a private club with an initiation fee, the public can access it by staying at The Inn at Entrada, offering a luxurious golf experience.
Thanksgiving Point Golf Club, Lehi:
Considered the top public course in Utah by Golf Digest, this Johnny Miller design is a short drive from Salt Lake City. Built around the Jordan River, it offers a challenging layout with multiple tees. The course blends botanical gardens and mountain views, creating a unique experience. With affordable rates and on-site club rentals, it's a convenient choice for visitors.
Bonneville Golf Course, Salt Lake City:
This beloved local course offers a panoramic view of Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Mountains. Designed by William Tucker and the Bell family, it features mature, tree-lined fairways and a classic feel. The sloping course and subtle breaks in the greens add to the challenge. With inexpensive pricing, it's a great option for locals and visitors alike.
Coral Canyon Golf Course, Washington:
Known for its quality and affordability, Coral Canyon is a short drive from St. George. Designed by Keith Foster, it boasts manicured fairways and greens, contrasting with the rugged red rock mountains. The scenery is truly unique, with views of Zion National Park and Pine Valley Mountain. The course offers a forgiving yet challenging experience, with a range of amenities. Seasonal pricing makes it an attractive choice.
Birch Creek Golf Club, Smithfield:
Birch Creek is an 18-hole championship course nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains. The serene setting offers a view of Cache Valley. Designed by Bill Hall and Ray Howard, it feels like two courses in one, with distinct front and back nines. The back nine features elevation changes and a challenging final hole. With reasonable pricing, it's a great public course for golfers of all levels.
A golf trip to Utah is an adventure like no other. From the high desert fairways to the Alpine trees, each course offers a distinct and rewarding experience. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, the Beehive State promises an unforgettable journey through some of the nation's most remarkable golf destinations.
