Idaho, renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, also boasts some of the finest golf courses in the country. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just starting out, the Gem State offers a range of courses that blend challenging play with breathtaking scenery.
From the picturesque fairways of Lakeview Golf Club to the luxurious amenities of Circling Raven Golf Club, Idaho’s top courses promise memorable golfing experiences.
Each course provides a unique set of features, from rolling hills and serene lakes to meticulously maintained greens and scenic mountain backdrops.
In this guide, we explore the five best public golf courses in Idaho, showcasing their distinctive qualities and why they stand out. Discover the ideal course that suits your game and immerse yourself in the beauty and challenge of Idaho’s premier golf destinations.
Whether you seek value, luxury, or stunning vistas, these top picks offer something for every golfer.
The 5 Best Public Golf Courses in Idaho
Discover Idaho’s top five public golf courses, where stunning scenery meets exceptional play, offering diverse challenges and breathtaking views.
1. Lakeview Golf Club
Lakeview Golf Club in Meridian, Idaho, stands out for its exceptional value. This public course offers a stunning 27-hole layout, providing variety for golfers at all skill levels. Green fees range from $39 to $44, making it an affordable yet high-quality option.
Golf enthusiasts praise the club, noting it’s not the longest course but provides excellent value. A common wish is for a better driving range capable of accommodating drives over 200 yards.
Player reviews rave about the well-maintained greens and fairways, enhancing the overall golfing experience. For budget-conscious golfers seeking quality, Lakeview Golf Club is a top choice in Idaho.
2. Circling Raven Golf Club
Located in Worley, Idaho, Circling Raven Golf Club is a top public/resort option. With green fees ranging from $129 to $179, it offers great value. Reviewers appreciate the excellent condition of fairways and tee boxes.
Although the greens had been recently punched, players still found them enjoyable. The course features a great layout, a top-notch practice area, and a welcoming clubhouse.
One reviewer mentioned, “Overall, great layout, great practice and clubhouse, great value and all around great experience.” This course stands out as a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
3. Twin Lakes Village Golf Course
Nestled in Rathdrum, Idaho, Twin Lakes Village Golf Course offers a semi-private golfing experience. The course boasts 37 pristine greens, attracting both beginners and seasoned golfers. Green fees range from $68 to $90, reflecting the premium quality of the course.
Golfers rave about the picturesque surroundings. One reviewer highlighted the enjoyable surprises and perfect weather, while another mentioned being paired with friendly locals, enhancing the overall experience.
The back 9 features a unique water hazard with trout, adding a memorable touch to the game. Twin Lakes Village Golf Course promises a delightful blend of challenge and beauty.
4. Jug Mountain Ranch Golf Course
Nestled in McCall, Idaho, Jug Mountain Ranch is a public golf course praised for its stunning variety and breathtaking views. It boasts green fees ranging from $62 to $84.50, making it an attractive option for many golfers.
Enthusiasts commend the course’s layout, which offers a blend of challenge and natural beauty.
Recent reviews highlight preferences for improvements, such as adding divot mix to tee boxes and upgrading to electric carts to replace gas ones.
Also, enhancing the perimeter around the greens to prevent cart access has been suggested. With these enhancements, Jug Mountain Ranch could elevate its already impressive golfing experience.
5. The Idaho Club
The Idaho Club in Sandpoint is a private and resort golf course known for its lush greens and challenging layout, featuring a par 72. Golfers appreciate its always-green fairways and decent rolling greens, though the difficult sloped greens cause many three-putts.
Despite its toughness, the stunning setting and well-maintained course attract serious golfers. Another notable course is the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, famous for its floating green on the 14th hole.
It offers beautiful lakeside views, meticulously maintained fairways, and luxurious resort amenities, making it popular among golfers of all skill levels.
What to Look for When Choosing a Golf Course in Idaho
Choosing a golf course in Idaho involves evaluating scenic views, course design, amenities, conditions, and value. Consider these factors to find the perfect golfing experience.
Location and Scenery
Idaho boasts scenic landscapes, highlighted by Twin Lakes Village Golf Course and Bear Lake West Golf Course, which features stunning views and top-notch facilities. Circling Raven Golf Club is praised for its intricate design and strategic holes.
Falcon Crest Golf Club offers an exceptional experience with seasonal availability, while Jug Mountain Ranch stands out for its breathtaking mountain vistas and well-manicured fairways.
Each course promises a unique challenge for golfers of all skill levels. Plan your trip today!
Course Layout and Design
Courses like Circling Raven Golf Club provide unique and challenging layouts with strategic bunkers and water hazards. The Gozzer Ranch Golf and Lake Club is known for its excellent facilities and attentive staff.
Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course features a famous floating green, offering a memorable experience. BanBury Golf Club is notable for its well-maintained fairways and practice areas.
Amenities and Facilities
Check the amenities, such as clubhouses and pro shops. The Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course is known for its luxurious amenities, including a unique floating green on the 14th hole that attracts golfers from around the world.
For a picturesque experience, this course is hard to beat. Next, head to the Whitetail Club in McCall, which offers pristine fairways set against a stunning mountain backdrop, with top-tier facilities and a challenging layout, making it a golfer’s paradise.
Course Conditions
Inspect fairway and green conditions. The Idaho Club features lush, always-green fairways and picturesque surroundings, providing a serene and enhanced golfing experience. This course is a must-visit for golf enthusiasts in Idaho.
Another top-notch course is the Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, known for its famous floating green on the 14th hole and breathtaking lake views.
Price and Value
Lakeview Golf Club in Meridian offers well-maintained greens at a reasonable price, providing great value. Jug Mountain Ranch in McCall stands out for its breathtaking mountain views and challenging layout.
TimberStone Golf Course in Caldwell is noted for its rustic charm and quality golfing. Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course is celebrated for its exquisite lakefront scenery and iconic floating green.
BanBury Golf Course in Boise consistently ranks among Idaho’s top courses for its pristine condition and strategic design.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top public golf courses in Idaho?
Idaho flaunts several top-tier public golf courses, including Circling Raven Golf Club, Falcon Crest Golf Club, Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course, Lakeview Golf Club, and The Idaho Club.
Why is Circling Raven Golf Club popular?
Circling Raven Golf Club is admired for its unique design and scenic landscapes, providing a memorable playing experience.
What makes Falcon Crest Golf Club challenging?
Falcon Crest Golf Club offers a challenging layout with a diverse range of holes and obstacles that test golfers of all skill levels.
How does Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course stand out?
Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course is renowned for its luxury amenities and breathtaking waterfront views, offering a premium golfing experience.
Is Lakeview Golf Club a budget-friendly option?
Yes, Lakeview Golf Club is celebrated for providing a high-quality golfing experience at a reasonable price.
Conclusion
Exploring Idaho’s golf courses reveals a mix of stunning landscapes and well-crafted layouts. Circling Raven Golf Club offers unique design amid pristine settings, while Falcon Crest Golf Club provides ample challenges for seasoned golfers.
Coeur d’Alene Resort Golf Course impresses with luxury amenities and waterfront views. Lakeview Golf Club in Meridian provides excellent conditions at a reasonable price, and The Idaho Club stands out for its beautiful environment and meticulously maintained fairways.
Idaho’s diverse range of golf courses caters to every golfer’s ambition and budget, ensuring a memorable experience against stunning backdrops.
Whether you’re seeking a competitive round or a leisurely day on the greens, Idaho has courses that will exceed your expectations. Plan your visit and discover why these top venues are celebrated among golf enthusiasts.
Colin McCarthy