Fore! Edmonton golf courses to swing about
With our wide open, green spaces, it’s no surprise that Edmonton and area is home to approximately 90 public and private (members-only) golf courses. I consulted with a couple of avid golfers, my ma and pa, to find some of the top courses. Here’s a rundown of a variety of golf courses within an hour’s drive of Edmonton – for experienced golfers, beginners and everyone in between. [Image credit: iStock.com/MichaelSvoboda]
Northern Bear Golf Course
51055 Range Rd 222, Sherwood Park, AB T8C 1J6This Jack Nicklaus designed course is a scenic sight to behold, with five lakes and lush tree-lined fairways. As with all Jack Nicklaus Signature Courses, Northern Bear is designed to accommodate players of all skill levels. The grounds and clubhouse facilities are top-notch here, which is why this site is a popular place for weddings and special events.
Cougar Creek Golf Resort
Designed to take advantage of the rolling grounds and natural topography, every hole at Cougar Creek presents a unique challenge. Watch out for the sand bunkers interspersed throughout the championship length golf course. You'll likely use every club in your bag along the way as you go through treed, links-style and open fairways.
The Quarry
If you’re hankering for a full day of golf, check out The Quarry, with its 27-hole championship golf course. The 27 holes are broken into three ‘nine’s’ each aptly named Granite, Slate and Ironside. Besides the meandering course, nestled close to the North Saskatchewan River, you’ll find plenty of places to practice putting, chipping and teeing off.
Lewis Estates Golf Course
260 Suder Greens Dr NW, Edmonton, AB T5T 4B7It’s no surprise that Lewis Estates is one of the most popular courses in Edmonton, as it boasts one of the best-kept greens in the city. The friendly staff and tasty fare at the clubhouse have helped to build a loyal following. Due to the proximity of nearby residential houses, this course is not for the ultra-beginner (we don’t want to break anyone’s window, do we?).
The Ranch Golf & Country Club
52516 Range Road 262, Acheson, AB T7X 5A2The Ranch is one of the most highly rated golf courses in the area, with an excellent variety of holes and a top-notch facility popular for corporate events and weddings. Although The Ranch is host to numerous Canadian Tour events, it aims to accommodate golfers of all skill levels with its laid-back environment. It’s partnered with the Golf Den, which makes it easy to take a class to brush up on your skills.
RedTail Landing Golf Club
Located right beside the Edmonton International Airport, RedTail Landing is a links-style course characterized by wide fairways and bunkers to provide a challenging course for players of all skill-levels. RedTail boasts one of the best practice facilities in the region, with driving ranges, putting and chipping greens and a practice area for sand bunker shots.
Weatherwood Ranch Inc
54007 Hwy 779, Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1Y3Duffy’s Challenge is a hidden-gem just minutes from Edmonton in Stony Plain. If you’re up for a challenging course and are short on time, you can breeze through this par-three course within two-and-a-half hours. For about only $30 for 18 holes, you’ll have fun practicing your short game as you play along deep valleys, hilly areas, water and trees.
Jagare Ridge Golf Course
14931 9 Ave SW, Edmonton, AB T6W 1A4Nestled along the Whitemud Creek Valley in Edmonton, Jagare Ridge golf course features soaring elevation changes, 14 holes with water, a few links-style holes – all amidst a natural environment. This is challenging ‘target golf,’ which you’ll either love or loathe, depending on your game that day. Reward yourself after you complete this course at the restaurant patio with panoramic views.
Stony Plain Golf Course
18 Fairway Dr, Stony Plain, AB T7Z 1M3Known for one of the best-kept greens in the area, this public golf course is reasonably-priced and family-friendly. For so-called ‘small fries,’ there is a free four-hole loop for young children just getting into the game. There’s also a free practice area to brush up on your chipping and putting, and a free foot-golf course (a cross between soccer and golf).
Kinsmen Pitch & Putt
9100 Walterdale Hill NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 2V3For the ultra-beginner or for kids just starting out, this is a fun, easy par-three course to practice your swing and get your feet wet. To get through the course, you’ll just need an iron and a putter and a dollop of sunscreen. Here, you can leisurely make your way through the 18 holes without feeling rushed.
