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If you’ve never ventured to the great state of Idaho, you’re missing out. The state is full of wonder and beauty. Much of it has yet to be discovered and overrun by out of state migrants.
I’ve been fortunate to spend a good deal of time in Idaho and so has one of our writers who lives in neighboring Oregon. We both agree that this state is rich with all sorts of hidden outdoor gems. Whether you’re looking to hunt and fish, hike, ski, kayak, or simply explore, there are no shortage of opportunities.
What a lot of people don’t realize though, is that there’s some great golf to be found too. Sure, some of it might be a little out of the way, but that’s what makes it an adventure, right?
Along with the help of our loyal readers, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best courses anyone can play.
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Found in the beautiful environment of McCall, Idaho, Jug Mountain Ranch offers golf enthusiasts a truly exceptional and rewarding experience with its impeccably designed course and breathtaking natural surroundings. Recognized as the Second Best New Public Golf Course under $75 in 2008 by Golf Digest, this course, designed by Donald Knott, provides spectacular views of old-growth forests and natural wetlands.
Known for its impeccable conditions and shot values, it’s a must-visit for golf enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet rewarding layout. The course offers a unique golfing experience with its breathtaking views of mature forests and natural wetlands, making it a top choice for golfers seeking a memorable round of golf.
Located in McCall, Idaho, Jug Mountain Ranch is highly regarded for its design, conditions, and the overall experience it offers to golfers. Its stunning location and well-maintained course make it a favorite among players in Idaho, attracting those who appreciate the rugged landscape and the thrill of the game.
If you’re seeking a golfing experience that combines exceptional design with breathtaking natural beauty, Jug Mountain Ranch is the place to be.
Tucked away in the scenic landscapes of Idaho’s panhandle, Priest Lake Golf Course offers a mountain golf experience that captivates golfers with its elevation changes and stunning lakeside views. This championship course is renowned for its narrow fairways and small greens, providing a challenging yet picturesque round of golf.
Nestled in the beauty of Priest Lake, this course offers a unique golf experience, with the surrounding fir forests and mountain peaks adding to its allure. While it may be relatively short, the layout of Priest Lake Golf Course presents a test for golfers of all skill levels, making it a hidden gem in Idaho.
The course’s challenging shot values and impeccable conditions create a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts in the Treasure Valley and beyond. If you’re seeking a memorable and rewarding golfing experience, Priest Lake Golf Course promises an adventure through breathtaking landscapes and an invigorating test of skill.
For those in search of the best golf courses in Idaho, Priest Lake Golf Course undoubtedly deserves a prominent spot on the list.
The Idaho Club, located in Sandpoint, Idaho, offers a unique golfing experience that continues the tradition of challenging yet picturesque mountain courses in the state.
Designed by Jack Nicklaus, this classic mountain target golf course features well-defined landing areas and penalizes missed shots. Nestled amidst Moose Mountain and the Lower Pack River, it provides a challenging layout with stunning natural surroundings, making it a must-visit for golf enthusiasts.
The Idaho Club is renowned for its impeccable conditions and strategic shot values, ensuring a prized round for golfers. Moreover, it’s not just about golf – the location also offers various non-golfing activities, making it an excellent destination for a golfing getaway.
If you’re an avid golfer looking for a memorable and challenging golfing experience in Idaho, The Idaho Club should be on the top of your list. With its unique design and scenic beauty, it’s no wonder that this course is considered one of the toughest ones in the state.
Offering a challenging layout and a rich history of hosting prestigious tournaments, Purple Sage Golf Course in Caldwell, Idaho promises an engaging and rewarding golfing experience. The course has been the venue for the Idaho Open and Idaho Amateur tournaments multiple times, attracting skilled golfers from the area.
Lined with pesky pine trees, the fairways demand accuracy off the tee, while the small greens become firm and fast during the summer, putting your short-game skills to the test. Located off Interstate 84, Purple Sage Golf Course is considered one of the best values in the Treasure Valley, offering an affordable yet top-notch golfing experience.
The classic muni golf atmosphere, complete with a pro shop and facilities, adds to the nostalgic feel of the place. Additionally, the course hosts a regular skins game, further enhancing the public profile of the course.
For golfers seeking an authentic and challenging experience, Purple Sage Golf Course is a must-visit.
Nestled in the community of Driggs, Idaho, The Links at Teton Peaks offers golfers a unique and visually stunning experience with its classic links-style layout and breathtaking views of the Grand Tetons Mountains in the background.
When you step onto the course, you’ll immediately notice the absence of trees, creating a wide-open feel that’s emblematic of links-style courses. As you play through the round, the windy conditions in the afternoon make club selection a tricky yet exciting challenge, allowing for playing shots along the ground and demanding strategic decision-making.
The awe-inspiring views of the Grand Tetons Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop that adds to the overall experience, making each hole a memorable one.
The Links at Teton Peaks, as a public course, provides a challenging and visually stunning golfing experience. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast or just starting, this course is the perfect place to play a round and soak in the beauty of Idaho’s Teton Peaks.
Situated in the picturesque landscape of Post Falls, Idaho, Prairie Falls Golf Club beckons both seasoned golfers and beginners with its challenging layout and captivating surroundings. This well-maintained course offers a truly rewarding golfing experience, blending strategic design with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting out, Prairie Falls Golf Club provides top-notch facilities and a welcoming atmosphere. The course is highly regarded for its excellent value, making it a popular choice for golfers seeking an exceptional and affordable golfing experience in Idaho.
When you play at Prairie Falls Golf Club, you can expect a pace of play that allows you to fully enjoy the course without feeling rushed. The tee options cater to various skill levels, ensuring that every round is both challenging and enjoyable. Additionally, the club offers experienced instructors who can help you refine your skills and elevate your game.
With its combination of breathtaking scenery and well-crafted layout, Prairie Falls Golf Club stands as one of the best courses in Idaho, offering a fantastic golfing experience for all skill levels.
One of the most fun and user-friendly rounds of golf in the Boise area is Indian Lakes.
Even though you might call this course’s design parkland, the reality is that it’s pretty open. Sure, if you miss a fairway by a mile, you’re going to find some trouble. But getting the ball in play isn’t all that difficult.
Indian Lakes isn’t long either. Measuring just over 6,000 yards from the back tees, you’re left with a lot of scoring clubs for your approach shots.
What people like most about this place though, is the laid back atmosphere and the staff that makes everyone feel welcome.
A most pleasant round at a reasonable price, give Indian Lakes a try.
Our writer who I mentioned earlier was recruited to play golf at the University of Idaho and has played this track.
Located just eight miles from the Washington border in the town of Moscow, this course is full of character. Elevation change can be found throughout, and narrow fairways mean you have to keep it in play.
Because you’re in the middle of the Palouse region, the wind can blow at any time. That makes club selection difficult and par a great score.
Well worth the trip, don’t miss a chance to play the University of Idaho Golf Course.
Shoshone Golf Club dates all the way back to the 1920’s when a rough and tumble miner decided the Silver Valley needed a golf course.
Today, this track remains of the “One of America’s Top-Ranked 9-Hole Golf Courses”.
Large trees line verdant fairways and call for accuracy from the tee.
The small greens are difficult to hit and quite slick.
Known for being a challenging track for even the most discerning of players, don’t underestimate Shoshone Golf Club.
You’ll find Twin Lakes Village Golf Course in the town of Rathdrum.
As its name would suggest, the 18 emerald fairways at Twin Lakes are surrounded by their namesake bodies of water.
One of North Idaho’s top-rated facilities, Twin Lakes is in pristine condition at all times during the season. Golfers rave about perfect lies in the fairways and greens that putt like pool tables.
Keeping the ball in play is important as large fir trees line the fairway on nearly every hole.
If you’re looking to get away from it all for a couple days, be sure to check out the stay and play packages.
If you plan on seeing and doing everything in the state of Idaho, you’ll need more than one trip. That’s for certain.
As much time as I’ve spent in this state, I’ve only scratched the surface, even when it comes to golf.
Do you have additional helpful thoughts to share about public golf in Idaho? If so, let us know in the comments below.
