Montana is known as an excellent destination for a plethora of outdoor activities but little is spoken of the amazing golf course offerings. Though numerous golf courses across the state are private, there are many public courses that include fantastic amenities’ along with sprawling, scenic views. Here is a short list of the top public golf courses that capture the beauty and value of Montana’s golf scene, Enjoy!
Northern Pines G.C. – Kalispell, MT
To kick off the best public courses in Montana I am featuring the Northern Pines G.C. in Kalispell. This par-72 link-style course is set along the Stillwater River just North of Kalispell. In the past 5 years Northern Pines has received numerous awards from Golf Digest including #7 Best Public Course in 2013 for Montana. The course was designed by Andy North and Roger Packard in a stunning fashion that illustrates Montana’s vast beauty.
Wilderness Club- Eureka, MT
Located in the Tobacco Valley near Sophie Valley, the Wilderness Club boasts a large expansive course with tree-lined fairways. This Nick Faldo designed course has been awarded #1 Best Golf Course in Montana by Golfweek and Golf Magazine in 2012 which speaks to its true natural beauty.
Canyon River- Missoula MT
A local favorite in Missoula, Canyon River lies within a golf community on the eastern edge of town. This course totals 6,395 Yards along the Clark Fork River with fantastic views of Mt. Sentinel boasts large undulating greens that will assuredly require you bring your best golf game.
Whitefish Lake G.C. (North) –Whitefish, MT
The Whitefish Lake G.C. includes the North & South Course for a total of 36 holes. The well-flowing North course is considered the location’s top course, with its signature par 3 hole #4. This hole has a pond front and left, with pines guarding the right with fantastic views of Big Mountain’s peaks in the backdrop. Not an overly difficult course, just over 6,800 yards, this course is a must play if you are in the Kalispell- Whitefish area.
Old Works- Anaconda, MT
One of Montana’s highest rated public courses, Old Works sits within the confines of the town’s old coal mines, also one of America’s largest superfund site. This beautiful Jack Nicklaus designed course is 18 holes and 7,211 Yards from the gold tees and regarded as one of the top Public Golf Courses of 2015 by Golf Digest. One of its most notable aspects in its design is its black sandtraps that reflect Anaconda’s coal producing history.
Written By: Kyle Curnow
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