5 TOP rated golf courses in Colorado

Colorado's top golf courses near Denver offer breathtaking Rocky Mountain backdrops, challenging layouts, and world-class amenities that make every swing memorable. GolfTroop specializes in curating seamless golf packages, luxury lodging, and tailored vacations to these elite venues—contact our team today to elevate your Colorado golf adventure.

Why Colorado golf stands out

Colorado golf captivates with its unique high-altitude environment, where thinner air adds distance to drives while dramatic terrain tests precision on every hole. Courses here weave through Ponderosa pine forests, alongside rushing creeks, and atop ridges with endless vistas of snow-capped peaks, creating experiences far beyond standard play. From public gems to private-feel layouts, these destinations draw golfers seeking both challenge and natural splendor. GolfTroop enhances visits by bundling tee times, upscale accommodations, transportation, and extras like guided outings or spa recoveries, ensuring hassle-free immersion in this golfer's paradise. Whether you're a seasoned pro plotting your next birdie streak or a weekend warrior chasing mountain magic, Colorado delivers rounds that reset the soul.

#1. Golf Club at Bear Dance - rugged championship haven

Nestled within 753 acres of rugged mountain terrain adorned with mature Ponderosa Pines, oak-lined ridges, picturesque draws, and native grass valleys, The Golf Club at Bear Dance delivers a pure championship golf experience . Situated at an average elevation of 6,800 feet, this course boasts breathtaking views of the Front Range and the majestic Rocky Mountains, where each hole unfolds like a postcard from the wilds . Renowned as Colorado’s premier public golf destination, Bear Dance features expansive tree-lined fairways bordered by gleaming white sand bunkers, scenic water elements, and meticulously designed greens that have earned it consistent rankings as the #1 course along the Front Range from 2014 to 2022 . The layout demands strategic shot-making amid natural contours, rewarding bold plays with unforgettable panoramas that make you feel on top of the world.

• Pure championship layout at 6,800 feet elevation.
• #1 Front Range course 2014-2022.
• Expansive fairways with mountain views.

Imagine teeing off as eagles soar overhead, your ball carrying farther thanks to the altitude, all while Ponderosa pines frame the perfect backdrop. GolfTroop packages here often include nearby mountain lodges for post-round relaxation, making it ideal for multi-day escapes where you can unwind by a crackling fire, plotting tomorrow's strategy.

#2. The Ridge at Castle Pines North - Weiskopf's foothill masterpiece

The Ridge at Castle Pines North exemplifies Tom Weiskopf’s masterful design philosophy, blending spacious fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and expansive, undulating greens that challenge pros and amateurs alike . Recognized by Golf Magazine, Colorado Avid Golfer, Golfweek, Golf Advisor, and Golf Digest, it ranks among Colorado's elite, securing multiple awards as Denver's top destination and five-time best in state by Colorado Avid Golfer . Nestled amidst dense forests of Gambel Oaks and Ponderosa Pines in the Front Range foothills, the course offers panoramic views stretching to Pike’s Peak, Devil’s Head, Mt. Evans, and even the glittering downtown Denver skyline on clear days . Elevation shifts add drama, turning routine approaches into thrilling downhill birdie chances that keep scores low and adrenaline high.

• Tom Weiskopf's strategic bunkers and greens.
• Five-time Colorado's best course.
• Views from Pike’s Peak to Denver skyline.

This venue shines for its balance of accessibility and prestige, where fairways wide enough for confident bombers narrow at just the right moments to enforce accuracy. Pair it with GolfTroop's custom lodging options in Castle Pines for a luxurious basecamp, complete with concierge service to fine-tune your itinerary.

#3. Fossil Trace - ancient echoes in modern play

Fossil Trace Golf Club, crafted by Jim Engh just 20 minutes west of Denver, captures the mountain west spirit through lush, rolling fairways and undulating greens that evoke Ireland's timeless links-style courses . Treacherous bunkers punctuate the landscape amid dramatic elevation changes that define Colorado golf, all framed by spectacular views around the majestic Table Mountain . This modern layout winds gracefully through the foothills' shadows, harmonizing natural beauty with inspiring challenges that linger in memory long after the final putt . The design philosophy prioritizes playability while hiding teeth in deceptive simplicity, letting your inner creativity shine.

• Links-style with Irish green influences.
• Dramatic elevation near Table Mountain.
• Lush fairways in Rocky foothills.

Fossil Trace feels like stepping into golf history amid prehistoric vibes, with holes that reward creativity over brute power. GolfTroop visitors rave about combining rounds here with Golden-area stays for a perfect foothill getaway, perhaps capped with craft brews from nearby microbreweries.

#4. Arrowhead Golf Club - sandstone luxury icon

Arrowhead Golf Club showcases a stunning championship layout by Robert Trent Jones, Sr. and Jr., open daily for public play across property spanning 300 million years of geologic wonder . Dramatic elevation changes, diverse wildlife from deer to foxes, and ancient red sandstone formations towering above fairways have earned it votes as #1 public course in Denver and a spot among America's Top 75 Public by Golf Digest . One of the world's top 10 most-photographed courses, Arrowhead crafts lifetime memories with holes that demand respect and deliver awe . The Jones legacy shines in every contour, blending risk-reward decisions with sheer visual spectacle.

• Robert Trent Jones Sr./Jr. design.
• #1 Denver public, top 75 US.
• Towering sandstone and wildlife.

Photographers and golfers flock here for the sheer visual drama—red rocks glowing at sunset make it Instagram gold. GolfTroop elevates stays with luxury ranch lodges nearby, turning a round into a full vacation highlight, wildlife spotting included.

#5. Green Valley Ranch - urban access to peaks

Green Valley Ranch Golf Club, strategically placed between downtown Denver and Denver International Airport, provides an 18-hole championship course alongside a 9-hole par-3 and a premier practice facility equipped with Trackman technology . Panoramic Rocky Mountain views enhance every round, as the club hosts prestigious events like the Inspirato Colorado Opens and champions youth programs through First Tee initiatives . The on-site Smokehouse & Oyster Bar rounds out the experience with exceptional dining, from fresh seafood to hearty post-round fare . Convenience meets quality here, ideal for busy schedules without skimping on wow-factor scenery.

• Central location with Trackman range.
• 18-hole plus par-3 options.
• Mountain views and top dining.

Perfect for travelers seeking quick access without sacrificing scenery, this spot blends city energy with mountain majesty. GolfTroop packages often feature airport shuttles and Denver hotels for effortless planning, letting you focus on the game.

Quick comparison of Colorado top golf courses

Course	Designer	Key elevation/views	Awards/highlights	Best for
Bear Dance	Championship layout	6,800 ft, Front Range	#1 Front Range 2014-2022	Rugged isolation seekers
Castle Pines North	Tom Weiskopf	Foothills to Pike’s Peak	5x Colorado's best	Strategic players
Fossil Trace	Jim Engh	Table Mountain drama	Links-style foothills	Creative shot-makers
Arrowhead	Jones Sr./Jr.	Sandstone towers	#1 Denver public	Photogenic luxury
Green Valley Ranch	Championship	Airport-Denver peaks	Trackman + events	Convenient access

 

Colorado's golf scene thrives on variety, from Bear Dance's wild isolation to Green Valley's polished convenience, all amplified by GolfTroop's expertise in packages, lodging, and bespoke itineraries. Whether chasing personal bests or family bonding, these courses set the stage.