Best Golf Courses in Montana

If you’re a fan of the Western U.S. and haven’t ever been to Montana, your experience isn’t complete.  Not only is Montana one of the largest states in the Union, it’s one of the most diverse in terms of landscape.  To that end, the sheer variety of places to see and outdoor activities to partake in is endless.  It’s impossible to scratch the surface in a single trip.

I’ve spent some time in this vast land and I’ll be the first to tell you, I love it.  While it might be hard to tolerate the harsh winters, spring, summer, and fall are heavenly.

And yes, there’s some outstanding golf to be played.  Even though the Treasure State doesn’t have the number of courses of other states (it ranks 40^th with 109), the quality isn’t to be denied.

Some of our readers reached out to share their thoughts as well.  Together, we’ve compiled a list of the best public courses you can play in Big Sky Country.

A Golf Digest “Top 100 Golf Course,” Old Works is located in the community of Anaconda. 

The site where the course sits today used to be a biohazard created by over a century’s-long mining operation.  Through no shortage of hard work, a group of local citizens lobbied for the construction of a world class golf course.

None other than Jack Nicklaus came to the rescue in 1994.

Today, Old Works is revered for its unique design that’s built on and around old mine tailings and structures. 

The key to scoring well is keeping the ball in play.  Nicklaus gives you ample room, but you’d best not miss.

For an experience unlike anything else you’ll find, plan a trip to Old Works.

 

If you’ve read enough of our course guides, you know I’m partial to University courses.  This track in Missoula is no different.

Even though it’s only nine holes, it’s an old school design that oozes character. 

The fairways are tree lined and the layout straightforward for the most part.  There aren’t too many surprises.

What I love most about this course are the greens.  They’re small and undulating.  Honestly, some of the trickiest to read that I’ve ever played. 

If you find yourself in Missoula for any reason, carve out a couple hours for a round at the University of Montana Golf Course.

 

 

The best thing about Big Sky is there’s something to do every month of the year.  Even though the resort is known most as a ski destination, there’s great golf to be found when there isn’t snow on the ground.

Big Sky Golf Course is surrounded by natural beauty that has to be seen to be believed.  Native prairie grasses line the fairways and views of the surrounding mountains are otherworldly.

An Arnold Palmer design, the ball travels here.  The elevation is over 6,500 feet.  Tee it high and let it fly.

Even though it takes some work to get to Big Sky, a prolonged stay won’t leave you disappointed.  The amenities and other activities are the best of the best.

 

   

If you get the chance, you need to visit the north part of the state and the country that surrounds Flathead Lake. 

In particular, the communities of Whitefish and Kalispell are full of vibrancy and life.

In Kalispell, you’ll find Buffalo Hill Golf Course.

This traditional parkland design features fairways that are lined by towering fir trees just waiting to eat up crooked tee shots. 

The greens are generous in size but guarded by penal bunkers and the occasional hazard.  Your approach shots need to be on target too.

Great golf in one of the most beautiful parts of North America, I’m a big fan of Buffalo Hill.

The trip to Ronan, Montana is worth it for both the stunning mountain views, and a round at Mission Mountain Golf Club.

The layout is somewhat open and allows you to swing away.  Be forewarned, the wind blows, especially in the afternoon, so picking the right club can be a challenge. 

The amenities are adequate, but not overstated.  You’ll find everything you need from friendly service, to refreshments, and instruction. 

Called the “Jewel of the Mission Valley” for a reason, there’s no excuse not to play Mission Mountain.

Anaconda Hills was originally designed in the 1920’s as a nine-hole course for workers in the company town of Black Eagle.  In 1992, it was expanded to 18.  To this day, it continues to serve as a staple in Great Falls.

The front nine has plenty of elevation and is treelined.  Keep it in the short stuff. 

On the back nine, the layout is more open, but deep ravines and natural waste areas demand precise ball striking. 

Locals will tell you staying below the hole is key.  When the greens dry out in the summer, they become firm and fast. 

A fun round at a reasonable price.

 

Built on 160 pristine acres, this course is resort golf at its best. 

Subtle elevation changes, numerous lakes, and creek crossings not only add to this track’s beauty, but keep you on your toes. 

The 15^th hole is particularly memorable.  It’s a challenging par three that plays to an island green.  You won’t find that every day in Montana. 

Another outstanding destination to stay and play, it’s no wonder Red Lodge Mountain is held in such high regard.

If you’re lucky enough to make it to the community of Livingston, make sure you bring your clubs.  Livingston Golf Course is full of charm.

This old school design is generous from the tee.  However, subtle humps and bumps in the fairways and on the greens provide an interesting challenge.  Locals that have played here for years still don’t have them all figured out. 

Livingston is also said to be one of the windiest places in North America.  That means the golf course too.  Plan accordingly.

Truly a treat to play, I’d recommend Livingston Golf Course to anyone looking for a unique, yet challenging round.

Northwest Montana boasts some of the most remote country in the Lower 48.  My favorite place is the Yaak Valley, but that’s a story for another time.

Maybe the best kept secret for golf in the state is the Wilderness Club, set on the edge of the Kootenai National Forest.

The course meanders through the wildest of Ponderosa Pine forests.  Don’t be surprised if you see wildlife ranging from deer and elk, to moose, and the occasional wolf (it’s happened).

Even though the playing season is short this far north, the Wilderness Club is always in spectacular shape.  The greens are especially true and run quick.

Truly golf in the middle of nowhere, you won’t want to leave once you’ve arrived at the Wilderness Club.

 

The Ranch Club in Missoula was ranked the “#3 Golf Course in Montana” by Golfweek.

Built on an old ranch site that dates back to 1869, this track wanders over rolling hills and has a number of large water hazards that come into play. 

Even though this links-like design is open, it’s susceptible to the wind and missing fairways can mean lost golf balls. 

When you’re done with your round, be sure to take in the full experience with a meal at the award-winning restaurant.  The menu blends locally sourced ingredients with a flare for modern technique.  Even my wife the foodie was blown away.

Conclusion

I get goosebumps just writing about golf in Montana.  It’s a land so vast and rich with rugged adventure, words have a hard time doing it justice.

There’s no doubt that you’ll have to do some traveling to play the best public tracks in this state.  I’m here to tell you, however, it’s more than worth the effort.

Our readers seem to agree too.  And it’s thanks to them that this article was made possible.  Per usual, I’m sure there’s something I’ve missed.  If so, please leave us a note in the comments.