Tucked away in the southeast corner of British Columbia lies one of Canada’s top golf destinations: the Kootenay Rockies. Surround yourself amongst chiseled peaks, majestic rivers and unspoiled forests. With 27 golf courses to choose from, we thought we’d give you a list of our Top 10 (we tried to narrow it down to 5, but it was just too hard!).
#10 – This mountain golf course features fairways surrounded by tall pine and spruce forests. The Sparwood Golf Clubshowcases a signature hole #7, a par 3 that offers an elevated tee, well-bunkered green and a putting surface shaped with undulation from front to back.
#9 – Mission Hills flawless greens are abound on this Executive Par 3 course nestled at the base of the Kootenay Rockies. Three unique 9-hole layouts await you: The Pine, The Badger, and The Creek. These courses will delight you as they challenge you from the first tee to the last, with gorgeous Rocky Mountain vistas and narrow tree-lined fairways.
#8 – During the summer months, water lovers and beach-goers flock to Christina Lake Golf Club, one of the warmest and prettiest mountain lakes in all of British Columbia. This 6,760-yard course, which includes an expansion designed by Les Furber that showcases his signature architecture with elevated tees, strategically bunkered greens and fairways and four holes featuring water hazards.
#7 – For decades, Mountainside at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort featured a classic tree-lined layout, but in 2012 it went under the knife and came back better than ever! Thanks to acclaimed architect Doug Carrick, the changes make Mountainside one of the must-play courses in the Kootenay Rockies.
#6 – The newest edition to the Kootenay Rockies golfing selection is Wildstone. Routed atop a rolling, pine-covered scenic rise directly above Cranbrook, Wildstone is Gary Player’s first and only Canadian design. This spectacular, player-friendly course offers a simple layout and finishes with one of the best closing runs in the province.
#5 – With a riverting 6,896-yard course that tumbles and rolls through spindly pines at the base of Northstar Mountain, Trickle Creek is the poster child for the mountain golf genre. Buckle your seat belts and get ready for one of the most memorable courses in the Kootenay Rockies!
#4 – The Kimberley Golf course is 90 years old, but you wouldn’t be able to tell with all it’s beauty. This vintage, one of a kind course that both low and high handicappers will enjoy. With two distinct nines, a tucked away setting and friendly folks, Kimberley is an easy choice.
#3 – Located in a peaceful, mountain-framed valley, golfing at St. Eugene Golf Resort is an epic journey not to be forgotten. Designed by Les Furber this 7,007-yard course is a treat featuring spectacular views of the St. Mary River and amidst the Rocky Mountains to the east. Situated between Cranbrook and Kimberley the course winds it’s way through open links land and rolling woodlands, providing a spectacular golf experience!
#2 – Bootleg Gap boasts an idyllic setting with unspoiled forest along the crystal clear waters of the St. Mary River. It’s as good as it gets! Bootleg Gap boasts an exciting 18 hole championship course, as well as a sporty 9 hole recreational course. (One of our staff’s favorite courses!)
#1 – The Fernie Golf & Country Club is known for its majestic mountain setting and playability. This golf course has something to offer for both the low handicap player and beginner alike. With luscious greens, silica sand bunkers, varied terrain, 6,556 yards and a stunning view of the Rocky Mountains this golf course is a players dream.
Now that we’ve given you our Top 10 Kootenay Rockies golf courses, it’s up to you to decide which one to challenge first. Once you’ve picked your course, be sure to use the Red Tree Lodge for all your accommodation needs while in Fernie. With a central location, affordable and comfortable rooms, more free amenities than any other hotel in Fernie and friendly, knowledgeable staff, we’re your #1 choice! Call 1-800-977-2977 to book today!