Grass is Always Greener — Top-Rated Colorado Golf Courses

There are 308 golf courses in Colorado. While this abundance brings pleasure to those passionate pursuers of puttering on greens and fairways, it also invites comparisons. Whether you’re planning a golf tournament or just a round for the corporate execs, wouldn’t it be nice to know which courses offer a game that’s good, and which ones offer a golf experience that’s great? Here’s what we think and why:

Eagle Ranch Golf Club

What to expect: The 18-hole public course has a links-type feel to it with large greens and subtle slopes. Strategically placed water hazards and bunkers add challenge and beauty to the layout. Arnold Palmer officially opened the course with a 9-hole playing exhibition in 2001.

Why we love it: At 6600 feet above sea level, golf balls fly about 10% further here, something most players agree is pretty amazing. Also pretty amazing…the course has been designated a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary since 2002, one of only 773 courses in the world with that designation. Finally, the beautiful clubhouse with pro golf shop, grille and patio with spectacular views add to players’ enjoyment.

Kissing Camels Golf Club at Garden of the Gods Club + Resort

What to expect: Kissing Camels is a golf mecca for all who make it their mission to play at exceptional courses. With 27 challenging holes, the course features bunkered greens, towering pines, and vistas of the lush mountain range. Former host of the Senior Women’s Amateur Tournament, this 50-year-old classic course spans more than 7000 yards per 18 holes.  

Why we love it: Beautifully maintained, Kissing Camels offers a unique experience for every golfer. In addition, they boast a top-rated golf pro shop stocked with first-class equipment. The luxury resort itself is stunning with breathtaking views of the Garden of the Gods landmark, 56 guest rooms, spa + salon, tennis courts, two swimming pools, fly fishing programs, plus an elegant dining room and lounge.

The Broadmoor Golf Club at The Broadmoor

What to expect: The Broadmoor Golf Club is the proud host of the upcoming 2018 US Senior Open. Set in the picturesque foothills of the Cheyenne Mountains, the Broadmoor’s three award-winning courses have played host to many national tournaments, including the US Women’s Open and PGA Cup Matches.

Why we love it: The East Course is one of only 12 North American and Caribbean golf courses to receive a five-star rating by Golf Digest. The West Course has more doglegs and steeply angled greens and offers stunning views of both the mountains and Colorado Springs. The Mountain Course is a par 72, beautifully designed with wide, forgiving fairways, large greens, and breathtaking mountain views. And of course, the resort itself invites guests to enjoy its legendary accommodations, spa, shops and galleries, as well as its many dining options.

Wellshire Golf Course at Wellshire Event Center

What to expect: Considered one of the most popular golf locations in Denver, the Wellshire Golf Course harmonizes with nature to create a wonderful championship golf course. Designed by well-known golf course architect and Golf Hall of Fame honoree, Donald Ross, the course has been selected by Golf Magazine as one of the outstanding public golf courses in the United States.

Why we love it: Because the course is owned by the city, the green fees are very reasonably priced. Centrally located in Denver, the event center includes seven unique banquet rooms, most notably the glass-enclosed Mountain View Pavilion overlooking the course’s 18th hole with spectacular views of the Rocky Mountain Range and downtown Denver as well. The Golfer’s Pub + Patio and the Onyx lounge are particularly inviting after a day spent on the links.

Arrowhead Golf Club

What to expect: Revered as one of the most scenic golf resorts in the area, the 18-hole course is magnificently designed, with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountain foothills, majestic red sandstone rock formations, unique bunkering, and striking water features. Adding to its allure, golfers share the fairways with the local wildlife, including deer, elk, and foxes.

Why we love it: Arrowhead’s extreme elevation changes and compelling natural surroundings have made it one of the top 10 most-photographed golf courses in the world. It was also voted the #1 public golf course in the Denver area and one of America’s “Top 75 Public Courses” by Golf Digest. The beautiful clubhouse provides a front row seat to the view and serves up delicious fare in an upscale but casual environment.

Hilton Denver Inverness

What to expect: The course at Hilton Denver Inverness is one of the only semi-private golf courses in the Denver area. The 18-hole course demands a strategic approach due to its unforgiving slopes, rolling hills, and deep bunkers. Water hazards are featured at 11 of the 18 holes making this course both beautiful and challenging.

Why we love it: Driving range, chipping area, and putting green ensure players are practiced and ready to tee up when it comes time. The resort appeals to guests with its comfortable rooms and suites, relaxing spa, indoor pool, tennis courts, jogging track, fitness room, and more.

Of course, this is just a smattering of the courses out there that are on par with your tournament goals. We know choosing just one might be rough, but once you start researching your options, we think you’ll find your sweet spot.