Best Golf Courses in Idaho: Your Ultimate Guide to Playing Like a Pro

Idaho, the Gem State, is not just known for its famous potatoes. It’s also a golfer’s paradise! From the towering pines of Northern Idaho to the rolling hills of the south, this state offers an array of golf courses that are as diverse and beautiful as its landscape. Golfing in Idaho isn’t just about swinging your club; it’s about immersing yourself in scenic vistas and unique landscapes that make every round an unforgettable experience.

It doesn’t matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie holding your club for the first time, there’s a course in Idaho that’ll match your skill level and enthusiasm. You’ll find challenging terrains designed by renowned architects, relaxing fairways amidst tranquil settings, and everything in between.

So if you’ve got your golf bag ready and are itching to hit some balls, let’s dive right into discovering some of these amazing greens Idaho has to offer. Be prepared though – with so many great options available, choosing where to play might be your toughest shot yet!

Exploring Idaho’s Top Golf Courses

Idaho, it’s not just about potatoes anymore! It’s time to tee off and discover some of the best golf courses this state has to offer.

Take a swing at Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course. This place is breathtaking with its views of Lake Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding mountains. But what really sets it apart? Well, it’s got the world’s only floating green! That’s right, their par-3 14th hole sits on a little island that can be moved by underwater cables. Now that’ll test your skills!

Next up, we have BanBury Golf Course in Eagle. It’s consistently been rated among the top golf courses in Idaho by Golf Digest for its challenging layout and meticulous conditioning. And let’s not forget those stunning Snake River Valley views!

If you’re looking for something more rugged and natural, head over to Circling Raven Golf Club in Worley. Built amidst 620 acres of wetlands, woodlands and Palouse grasses, you’d be hard-pressed to find another course like it anywhere else.

Now don’t overlook Whitetail Club in McCall either. It offers an unforgettable mountain golfing experience with its rolling fairways framed by tall Ponderosa pine trees.

We’ve got:

• Coeur d’Alene Resort – Home to the world’s only floating green.
• BanBury Golf Course – Consistently top-rated for layout & conditioning.
• Circling Raven – Unique setting amidst 620 acres of diverse terrain.
• Whitetail Club – Mountain golfing surrounded by towering pines.

So grab your clubs and get ready for an incredible golf adventure across Idaho!

Distinguishing Features of Idaho’s Premier Courses

Now, let’s dive right into what sets these golf courses in Idaho apart. Their unique geographical locations and the variety of terrains make them quite an attraction for golfers worldwide.

Idaho’s premier golf courses offer scenic beauty like no other. They’re nestled among rolling hills, lined by lush forests, or overlooking serene bodies of water. These aren’t just places to swing a club; they are experiences that etch themselves into your memory. For instance, the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course features a floating green on its 14th hole! It’s quite literally a moving target – making it one-of-a-kind globally.

Another aspect that distinguishes these courses is their challenging layouts. With varying elevations, strategically placed hazards, and unpredictable wind conditions – you’re in for a test of skill every time you step onto an Idaho course. Take Circling Raven Golf Club as an example; it stretches out over 7,189 yards with 11 ponds scattered throughout – presenting exciting challenges even for seasoned players.

Let’s not forget about the exceptional facilities and services offered at these venues either:

• BanBury Golf Course provides state-of-the-art practice facilities including driving range and putting greens.
• Whitetail Club is known for its deluxe accommodations making it perfect for extended stays.
• Blue Lakes Country Club boasts unmatched hospitality with top-notch dining options.

Finally, there’s the weather factor. Idaho’s climate lends itself perfectly to golfing with mild summers offering ideal playing conditions.

That said, each course has its own personality shaped by its distinct features. Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes or tough terrains to conquer – Idaho’s got you covered!

Best Public Golf Courses in Idaho

Idaho’s picturesque landscapes make for some truly impressive golf courses. Let’s tee off with the BanBury Golf Course. Nestled in Eagle, it’s a course that will challenge your skills while providing stunning views of Boise River. Known for its fast greens and well-maintained fairways, BanBury is a delight for any golf enthusiast.

Next up on our list is the Circling Raven Golf Club located in Worley. It’s recognized as one of the top public courses nationwide, not just within Idaho borders! This 7,189-yard course winds through wetlands, woodlands and rolling Palouse country hills – offering variety and excitement at every hole.

No tour of Idaho’s best public golf courses would be complete without mentioning Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course. Famous for its floating green on the 14th hole (yes, you heard right!), this course presents a unique challenge that keeps golfers returning time after time. Plus, it offers awe-inspiring panoramas of Lake Coeur d’Alene – a sight to behold!

Over at Nampa we have Ridgecrest Golf Club, which offers two different experiences in one location: an 18-hole Championship Course and a 9-hole Executive Course. Both provide players with manicured fairways set against beautiful mountain backdrops.

Lastly but no less worthy is Whitetail Club & Resort in McCall – renowned for its harmonious blend with nature. The course architects artfully utilized natural lakes and streams throughout the design to create intriguing water hazards.

These are just some of the many fantastic public golf courses you’ll find dotted around Idaho – each bringing its own unique charm while maintaining superb quality standards that cater to all skill levels.

Highlighting Private Golf Clubs in Idaho

Right off the bat, let’s talk about one of Idaho’s best-kept secrets: its private golf clubs. Nestled within this state’s majestic landscapes, you’ll find golfing havens that are as inviting as they are exclusive. Let’s dive into some of the top private golf clubs in Idaho.

First up, we have The Club at SpurWing. This gem is located in Meridian and is revered for its lush fairways, challenging greens, and breathtaking views of the Boise Foothills. What sets SpurWing apart isn’t just its fantastic course; it also boasts a family-friendly environment with amenities like swimming pools and tennis courts.

Next on our list is Hillcrest Country Club situated right in Boise. It offers an 18-hole championship course that has hosted several professional tournaments over the years. But Hillcrest isn’t just about golf; it prides itself on offering a vibrant social scene with events throughout the year.

Not to be left out is Blue Lakes Country Club in Twin Falls. Set against dramatic canyon walls along Snake River Canyon rim, playing here becomes more than just a game – it turns into an experience.

Lastly but certainly not least is Black Rock Golf Course in Coeur d’Alene. Known for its award-winning design and stunning lake views, Black Rock provides a challenge for even seasoned players while still being enjoyable for newcomers.

Below is a quick summary:

These private golf clubs offer not only world-class courses but also something truly unique to their members – whether it’s family activities or social events or simply extraordinary landscape views. They’re more than just places to play a round or two; they’re communities where you can connect with fellow enthusiasts while enjoying your favorite sport.

Unique Terrain: Mountain Golf Courses in Idaho

Diving right into it, the landscape of Idaho is a golfer’s dream. It’s chock-full of diverse terrain with clear skies that make your golfing experience worth every swing. Now let’s bring your attention to an often overlooked gem – mountain golf courses.

You might be wondering, “Mountain golf? What’s so special about that?” Well, dear reader, you’re in for a treat! Nestled within Idaho’s majestic mountains lie some of the most breathtakingly beautiful and challenging golf courses around.

Take for instance the Circling Raven Golf Club in Worley. It’s not just a course; it’s an intimate immersive experience with nature. You’ve got 7,189 yards of lush green fairways flanked by towering pines and filled with strategically placed hazards. The whole play-through feels like a journey through a beautifully manicured wilderness.

Then there’s Whitetail Club in McCall which truly exemplifies mountain golfing. This private residential community offers an eighteen-hole beast set amidst rolling hills and dramatic elevations changes – all against the backdrop of stunning Payette Lake views.

However, if you’re looking for something more laid back yet equally scenic then Jug Mountain Ranch should hit the spot. With its relaxed atmosphere and panoramic vistas of Jughandle Mountain, it’s sure to make any golfer feel right at home!

Idaho may be known for its potatoes but these unique terrains prove that it has much more to offer especially when it comes to mountain golf:

• Circling Raven Golf Club: 7,189 yards
• Whitetail Club: Private Residential
• Jug Mountain Ranch: Laid-back Atmosphere

So next time you pack your clubs for a round or two remember this; from majestic peaks to serene lakeside greens – Idaho’s mountain golf courses are here waiting to challenge and charm you!

Golf Course Rankings: Expert Opinions and Reviews

Diving into the world of golf in Idaho, you’ll quickly discover that this state is a golfer’s paradise. With its stunning landscapes, diverse terrain, and excellent facilities, it’s no wonder many experts rate these courses highly.

To kick things off, let’s talk about Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course. Frequently topping the list as one of the best golf courses in Idaho, it’s particularly famous for its floating green on the 14th hole. It’s not just a gimmick – expert reviews consistently praise its well-maintained fairways and challenging design.

Just down the road from Coeur d’Alene lies another gem – Circling Raven Golf Club. Nestled amidst 620 acres of wetlands, woodlands and Palouse grasses, it offers an unspoiled setting that has won over critics nationwide. In fact, ‘Golf Digest’ ranked it among America’s 100 greatest public golf courses in 2019!

Switching gears to Southern Idaho brings us to Whitetail Club in McCall. This private course is set against a backdrop of spectacular mountain vistas and pristine Payette Lake waters. While access may be more exclusive here than at other locations mentioned earlier, professional ratings indicate that if you can snag an invitation to play here – don’t hesitate!

Let’s round out our exploration with BanBury Golf Course located right outside Boise city limits. It might not have quite the same national recognition as some others on this list but ask any local golfer where they’re likely to spend their weekend tee time – BanBury will almost certainly be high on their list.

Here are those top picks again:

• Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course
• Circling Raven Golf Club
• Whitetail Club
• BanBury Golf Course

Keep these insights handy when planning your next golf getaway; after all there’s nothing quite like playing a round or two on Idaho’s best greens!

Affordable Yet Quality: Budget-Friendly Golf Courses in Idaho

Believe it or not, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy some quality tee time in Idaho. The Gem State is teeming with affordable golf courses that do not compromise on quality. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for a challenge or a beginner wanting to get into the swing of things, there are plenty of budget-friendly options available.

Let’s start with Ponderosa Springs Par 3 Golf Course located in Coeur d’Alene. It’s a fantastic course for those just getting started or anyone seeking a quick round without sacrificing natural beauty. As its name suggests, this par-3 course offers an enjoyable experience at just $10 per game! Talk about value!

Moving on, we have Canyon Springs Golf Course, nestled in Twin Falls. This public golf course has received rave reviews for its well-maintained fairways and stunning views of Snake River Canyon – all at an unbeatable price point under $20.

Don’t overlook Centennial Golf Course either! Situated in Nampa, this easily accessible course features 18 holes spread over beautifully sculpted terrain. You can play here for less than you’d spend on lunch at a fancy restaurant – around $15!

And if you’re near Buhl? Check out Clear Lakes Country Club. It boasts challenging fairways and pristine greens amidst panoramic vistas of Magic Valley, all for under $25.

Here’s your quick rundown:

So grab your clubs and get ready to hit these links! With so many budget-friendly yet top-notch golf courses dotting the state, playing golf in Idaho doesn’t need to be expensive—it’s all about finding the right place.

Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal Idaho Golf Course

Alright, you’ve made it to the end of this guide. So, how do you go about picking your perfect golf course in Idaho? Well, remember that what might be ideal for someone else might not necessarily be perfect for you. It’s all about personal preference and what you’re looking to get out of your golfing experience.

Firstly, consider the difficulty level. Are you a seasoned golfer looking for a challenge or are you just starting out? If you’re a beginner, courses like Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course with their floating green or Falcon Crest Golf Club with its forgiving fairways could be excellent choices. For those seeking more of a challenge, BanBury Golf Course or Circling Raven Golf Club will definitely test your skills.

Next up is location. Do you prefer mountain views or serene lakeside settings? Luckily for you, Idaho offers both! Courses such as McCall Golf Club offer stunning mountain vistas while Priest Lake State Park provides breathtaking lake views.

But hey, don’t forget about the amenities. Some people live for those post-game clubhouse moments where they can unwind and socialize. Others love having access to top-notch practice facilities where they can hone their skills. No matter which camp you belong to, there’s bound to be an Idaho course that has exactly what you need.

Lastly but certainly not least important is budget. Let’s face it – golfing can sometimes be pricey but don’t worry! Whether you’re looking to splurge on a luxury experience at Gozzer Ranch Golf & Lake Club or save some bucks at affordable yet quality places like Ponderosa State Park Golf Course – there’s something for everyone in Idaho!

In conclusion (oops! I mean), finding your ideal golf course in Idaho doesn’t have to be stressful at all! Keep these tips in mind when making your choice and remember – no matter which course ends up being ‘the one’, the real win is spending time outside enjoying this beautiful game!

So grab those clubs and let’s hit the greens – because some of Idaho’s best experiences await on its lush fairways and challenging holes!