Best Public Golf Courses in Salt Lake City, Utah

Did you know Salt Lake City has the most golf courses per person in the US? This fact shows the city’s big love for golf. It offers many choices for every golfer, no matter their skill or budget.

Green fees vary from $34 to $99 at top public courses. This means everyone can find a course that fits their budget. For example, Mountain Dell Golf Club is just $40 for walking. Meanwhile, Thanksgiving Point Golf Club is $99 for a top-level game.

Salt Lake City’s golf scene is not just big; it’s also high quality. Courses like Bonneville and Bountiful Ridge have classic designs. They offer tough play and beautiful views. The Ridge Golf Club is a newer addition that brings fresh excitement to the city’s golf scene.

But Utah’s golf doesn’t stop at Salt Lake City. Places like Sand Hollow Resort in Hurricane and Entrada at Snow Canyon in St. George offer amazing golf. These spots, along with Salt Lake City’s public golf courses, make Utah a top destination for golfers.

Key Takeaways

• Salt Lake City has the highest golf courses per capita in the US
• Green fees range from $34 to $99 for top public courses
• Courses offer diverse challenges and scenic views
• Both classic designs and modern redesigns are available
• Utah’s golfing scene extends beyond Salt Lake City with world-class resorts

Discovering Salt Lake City’s Golfing Gems

Salt Lake City has many public golf courses. They mix beautiful views with tough challenges. You can see the Great Salt Lake, Salt Lake Valley, and Wasatch Mountains from these courses.

There’s a golf course for everyone, no matter your skill level. You’ll find great amenities like practice areas, pro shops, and places to eat. Most courses welcome guests, letting you enjoy Salt Lake City’s golfing.

Autumn is the best time to play golf in Salt Lake City. Courses like Mountain Dell and Bonneville show off amazing fall colors. Membership benefits include early tee times and lower rates. Always check guest policies and book early to play on these popular courses.

Top 8 Public Golf Courses in Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City has a wide range of public golf courses. Each course has its own special features and views. They welcome golfers of all skill levels.

The city’s top public golf courses are known for their designs and views. Bonneville Golf Course is a classic with views of the Great Salt Lake. Mountain Dell has 36 holes surrounded by mountains.

Bountiful Ridge Golf Club is famous for its timeless design and fall colors. The Ridge Golf Club has a modern look. South Mountain Golf Course is challenging with its elevation changes. River Oaks Golf Course is in the central valley.

For a luxury golf experience, Thanksgiving Point Golf Club is the best. It was designed by Johnny Miller and managed by Troon. These courses offer the best of Salt Lake City’s golf, with natural beauty and top facilities.

Bonneville Golf Course: A Classic Tree-Lined Layout

Bonneville Golf Course is in Salt Lake City and offers a timeless golfing experience. It opened in 1929 and has kept its charm over the years. With green fees from $40 to $56, it’s a great value for golf lovers.

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William P. Bell’s Architectural Masterpiece

William P. Bell designed the original 9-hole course, later expanded to 18 holes in the late 1940s. The layout shows Bell’s skill, with the original holes making up most of the front nine. Holes 2-7 on the front and the 10th and 18th were part of the first design.

Panoramic Views of the Great Salt Lake

Golfers at Bonneville see stunning views of the Great Salt Lake and Salt Lake Valley. The fairways, lined with trees, add to the beauty of the course. Its popularity means tee times are often booked in advance.

Fast Greens and Old-School Vibes

Bonneville is famous for its fast greens and challenging layout. It has a par of 72 and stretches 6,872 yards. The course’s bent/Poa Anna grass greens and bluegrass fairways ensure great playing conditions all year.

Book your tee times early to play this classic course. It has hosted many tournaments, including the Utah State Amateur Championship. Bonneville Golf Course is a mix of history and modern golfing excellence.

Mountain Dell: 36 Holes of Secluded Beauty

Mountain Dell Golf Courses are hidden in Parley’s Canyon, just 20 minutes from Salt Lake Valley. They offer 36 holes of stunning views, sitting at nearly 6,000 feet. This makes for a unique golfing experience.

Canyon 18-hole golf course

The Canyon Course is a four-mile journey up the mountain from the clubhouse. It loops back, offering challenging terrain and amazing views. It closes after November 3, ideal for summer and early fall play.

Lake 18-hole golf course

The Lake Course stays open until snowfall, offering more play time. Both courses feature beautiful mountain views and wildlife like deer and the famous Mountain Dell Moose. The high elevation gives long hitters an edge.

Scenic mountain views and course design highlights

Mountain Dell’s courses were redesigned in 1991, offering a modern golfing experience. The Canyon Course’s record is 63 by Jordan Gibbs and Cooper Jones. The Lake Course’s record is 62 by John Tagge.

Golfers can join various leagues at Mountain Dell. The Men’s League has over 250 members, playing on Thursdays. The Women’s League plays on Tuesdays from May to September. The LPGA Amateurs Salt Lake Chapter also plays on Mondays during the same period.

Mountain Dell is a great value for those seeking scenic challenges and diverse play options. Book your tee times early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.

Bountiful Ridge Golf Club: A Hidden Municipal Treasure

Bountiful Ridge Golf Club is a hidden gem in Salt Lake City’s public golf scene. It offers a quality golf experience at a low cost, just 20 minutes from downtown.

William H. Neff’s Timeless Design

William H. Neff designed Bountiful Ridge in 1975. It has unique hole layouts that challenge and thrill players of all levels. The standout holes show Neff’s skill in blending nature with golf.

Fall Colors and Spectacular Scenery

Autumn is when Bountiful Ridge really comes alive. The tree-lined fairways turn into a stunning display of fall colors. This makes your golf game even more enjoyable.

Historical Significance in Gaming

In 1992, Bountiful Ridge was the first course in Access Software’s Championship Links PC game. This digital debut brought the course to more people and made it a part of golf history.

Pricing and Membership Details

Bountiful Ridge has affordable rates for golfers on a budget. Here’s what they charge:

For those who play often, Bountiful Ridge has membership plans. These offer extra benefits. Call the pro shop for more information and rates.

The Ridge Golf Club: A Modern Redesign Success

The Ridge Golf Club is a shining example of a successful golf course redesign. Once called Westridge, it was revamped in 2012. Gene Bates Golf Design gave it a new life, making it a top-notch 18-hole course.

The course is both tough and rewarding. It has interesting holes with smartly placed bunkers. This makes it great for golfers of all levels. The Ridge welcomes visitors with open arms, offering amenities for both casual and serious golfers.

Playing at The Ridge offers more than just golf. The clubhouse is perfect for unwinding after your game. The pro shop has everything you need to get better. Booking tee times is easy, online or by phone.

The Ridge’s redesign shows a bigger trend in golf course updates. For example, Clear Creek in Nevada reopened with new features like a beach club and trails. Adding more activities makes the experience better for everyone.

South Mountain Golf Course: Challenging Elevation Changes

South Mountain Golf Course is a top spot for golf in Salt Lake City. It combines tough play with beautiful views. This makes it a great test of your skills and a treat for your eyes.

Gary Panks and Graham Marsh’s Mountain-Style Design

Designers Gary Panks and Graham Marsh created a gem at South Mountain. The course has Bent Grass greens and fairways, covering 7,080 yards with a par of 72. It’s a tough challenge for all golfers, with a 73.4 rating and 130 slope.

Unique Hole Settings and Cohesive Architecture

The layout at South Mountain is truly special. It has narrow fairways and tough rough, so accuracy is crucial. The double-tiered greens make your short game even harder. Golfers give the design a high 4.2 out of 5.

Stunning Wasatch Mountain Vistas

As you play, you’ll see amazing views of the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake Valley. These views make your game even more enjoyable.

South Mountain is great for its design and views, but some amenities could be better. Still, its unique features and tough layout make it a must-visit for golf lovers. For more variety, check out Baltimore’s golf scene. It has 36 courses within 15 miles.

Nibley Park Golf Course

Nibley Park Golf Course is a historic gem in Salt Lake City. It opened in May 1922, making it Utah’s oldest public golf course. The 9-hole layout, designed by Harold B. Lamb, offers a fun round with a par of 34 and 2,895 yards.

The course has bent grass fairways and greens, great for all skill levels. It has a course rating of 33.6 and a slope of 120. Nibley Park is known as the “gateway to golf” for many players over the years.

Nibley Park has facilities like a driving range and a practice chipping green. A monument by the Daughters of Utah Pioneers celebrates the course’s history near the practice area.

Golfers can book tee times online. The course is affordable, making it great for those on a budget. For the latest tee time bookings and rates, contact the course directly.

Nibley Park Golf Course is at 2780 S 700 E, Salt Lake City. It’s ranked #11 best public golf course in the area. Despite not having all the facilities of larger parks, its history and golfing experience make it a must-visit.

Glendale Golf Course

Glendale Golf Course is a favorite in Salt Lake City. It was designed by William F. Bell in 1973. The course has 18 holes, is nearly 7,000 yards long, and has a par of 72 and a slope of 119.

The layout is well-kept, with large greens and fairways. You’ll see lakes and wetlands along the way. The course also has sand traps and a thrilling par-4 finishing hole.

The natural beauty of Glendale is stunning. As you play, you’ll see the state capitol, downtown Salt Lake City, and the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains.

Glendale is great for all skill levels. It has a grass driving range and putting and chipping greens. You can also get help from professional instructors.

To book a tee time, call 801-974-2403. Glendale is perfect for group outings and tournaments. It has a café, pro shop, and nearby lodging.

If you’re looking for more golf, check out Connecticut’s top public golf courses for a different experience.

Rose Park Golf Course

Rose Park Golf Course in Salt Lake City is a challenging yet fun place to play. It was designed by Mick Riley in 1959. The course has 18 holes, covering 6,898 yards with a par of 72.

The greens are made of Bent Grass, and the course has a rating of 71.3 with a slope of 117.

Many golfers love Rose Park for its great conditions and value. They say the course layout is excellent, with standout holes that show off the designer’s talent. The staff is friendly, and the game moves at a good pace, making the experience even better.

Now, let’s look at the rates and tee times for Rose Park Golf Course:

Rose Park Golf Course has affordable prices for both 9 and 18 holes. They offer season passes and loyalty programs for regular players. These can help you save money if you play often.

River Oaks Golf Course: Central Valley Convenience

River Oaks Golf Course is in the heart of Salt Lake City’s central valley. It offers a challenging and scenic golfing experience. Designed by William H. Neff, it hugs the Jordan River, making your game unique.

The course is for skilled players, with many forced carries and water hazards. These elements test your abilities. River Oaks is known for its interesting hole designs and walkable layout.

It’s a favorite among local golf enthusiasts. The course has varied tee boxes, allowing players to adjust the difficulty level. This ensures an enjoyable round for golfers of different skill levels.

River Oaks has great amenities. The clubhouse has a well-stocked pro shop and a comfortable lounge area. Booking tee times is easy online or by phone.

The course’s guest policies aim to make your visit pleasant. This ensures a good experience for all visitors.

Playing at River Oaks offers more than just a game. Its central location makes it easy to reach from anywhere in Salt Lake City. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, River Oaks Golf Course is a convenient and challenging place to play in Utah’s capital.

Thanksgiving Point Golf Club: A High-End Daily Fee Experience

Thanksgiving Point Golf Club is a top choice for golf near Salt Lake City. It’s a 200-acre course designed for champions. Golf lovers will find it a premium experience.

Johnny Miller’s Pro-Level Layout

Johnny Miller, a golf legend, created this 7,700-yard course. It has unique features that test and thrill players. The course uses the natural landscape for stunning views.

It requires skill and strategy, making it a hit with experienced golfers.

Host to Champions and Charity Events

Thanksgiving Point has hosted big events like the Champions Challenge. Golf stars like Jack Nicklaus and Annika Sorenstam have played here. The club also supports charity events, boosting its reputation.

Troon Management Quality

Troon manages Thanksgiving Point, ensuring top service and course conditions. This guarantees a quality visit for everyone. The club offers great amenities, like a pro shop and dining.

Though pricier than other public courses, Thanksgiving Point offers a premium experience. Its design, views, and management make it a must-visit for golf fans in Salt Lake City.

Affordable Golfing: Green Fees and Rates Comparison

Salt Lake City’s public golf courses have green fees for every budget. You can find courses that match your budget and skill level. Let’s look at the rates at Salt Lake City’s top public courses.

River Oaks Golf Course is the cheapest, starting at $34. Thanksgiving Point Golf Club is the most expensive, up to $99. Municipal courses like Bonneville and Mountain Dell cost between $40 and $56. They offer good quality at a fair price.

Book your tee time early to get the time you want. Most courses let you book up to a week in advance. Thanksgiving Point lets you book two weeks ahead. Rates can change with the season and time of day, so always check.

Salt Lake City has golf for every budget, like Memphis’s golf scene. Whether you want a quick game or a fancy round, there’s something for everyone.

Booking Tee Times: Tips and Tricks for Salt Lake City Courses

Booking a tee time in Salt Lake City requires some planning. Popular courses get booked quickly. It’s wise to book early. Many golf clubs now have online systems for easy booking.

Check the course’s website or call them for the latest booking info. This way, you avoid surprises with fees or availability. Some courses change their booking rules with the seasons, so keep up to date.

Here’s a quick look at green fees and booking options for top Salt Lake City courses:

Fees can change based on the day and time you play. Weekends and holidays usually cost more. Some courses offer twilight rates for late afternoon play, which can be cheaper.

For the best experience, book your tee time at least a week in advance. This increases your chances of getting your preferred time. If you’re flexible, you might find last-minute deals.

Seasonal Considerations for Golfing in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City’s golf scene changes with the seasons. Spring lets you ski and golf on the same day. You can enjoy winter sports at places like Alta and Snowbird until June.

Summer brings longer days, great for golfing after work. Fall turns courses like Bountiful Ridge into a colorful sight. Winter might close some courses, but others stay open if the weather allows.

The high elevation in Salt Lake City affects your game. Courses like Mountain Dell can make your shots go 10-30% farther. This makes golfing here a fun challenge for everyone.

Keep in mind, rates and membership details can change with the seasons. Some courses offer twilight rates or discounts during off-peak times. Always check their websites for the latest info. Book your tee times early, especially in summer, to get the time you want.

Amenities and Facilities at Salt Lake’s Top Public Courses

Salt Lake City’s public golf courses have lots to offer. They have well-kept practice areas and fully-stocked pro shops. These places give you everything you need for a fun day of golf.

Most courses have driving ranges, putting greens, and chipping areas. These help you get ready for your game. Pro shops sell gear, clothes, and give tips to better your game. You can also grab a bite to eat at the on-site dining options.

How you can play varies by course, but many are open to visitors. You can book tee times online or by phone. Some courses even offer discounts for early or late play.

Playing at Salt Lake City’s public courses is more than just golf. You get to see beautiful views of the mountains and well-kept landscapes. Wingpointe, for example, is open all year, so you can golf even in winter.

Improving Your Game: Practice Facilities and Pro Shops

Salt Lake City’s public golf courses have great practice facilities to help you get better. At South Mountain Golf Club, ranked #3 in Utah by Golf Digest Magazine, you can practice for $5 per token. The course has different tee setups for all skill levels, with various ratings and slopes.

Looking for professional help? South Mountain’s Head Professional offers 45-minute lessons for $75. The club’s design is beautiful, making practice both fun and scenic. Summer brings weekly clinics for kids, drawing over 200 young players each year.

Old Mill Golf Course, a CITY WEEKLY Best Golf Course Award winner, has affordable practice options. Their range balls are priced from $5 to $15. The pro shop has club rentals, including premium demo sets, for trying out new gear while enjoying the views.

Both courses have well-stocked pro shops with the latest gear and apparel. They offer private lessons, league play, and tournaments. These facilities are perfect for golfers wanting to improve their skills in Salt Lake City’s stunning views.